News: Chiefs wideout Donnie Avery twisted his ankle in practice Tuesday and has been limited in OTA workouts since according to the Kansas City Star. He's been competing for a starting job.
Analysis: He should be more than OK for training camp. Avery strikes us as an excellent West Coast offense receiver who should have a chance at landing another 60 catches with the Chiefs. It wouldn't be a huge surprise to see him wind up with similar numbers. Consider Avery a nice reserve receiver potentially worth a late-round pick in deeper leagues.
News:Donnie Avery has signed with the Chiefs according to ESPN. Avery just had the best season of his NFL career in 2012, totaling 60 catches on 124 targets for 781 yards and three touchdowns.
Analysis: Avery strikes us as an excellent West Coast offense receiver who should have a chance at landing another 60 catches with the Chiefs. It wouldn't be a huge surprise to see him wind up with similar numbers. Consider Avery a nice reserve receiver worth a late-round pick.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports that new Colts offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton might want to bring back free agent receiver Donnie Avery in 2013. Hamilton consistently included Avery and his deep-threat skills when discussing his passing game at a recent press conference.
Analysis: Avery just had the best season of his NFL career in 2012, totaling 60 catches for 781 yards and three touchdowns. But he also had seven drops on 124 targets. If he does return to the Colts he would be worth a look in deeper leagues with a late-round flier. If he signs elsewhere then his value could change.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery totaled two catches for 12 yards during a 24-9 Wild Card round loss to the Ravens. His longest catch went 7 yards and he was targeted eight times.
Analysis: Avery had the best season of his NFL career in 2012, totaling 60 catches for 781 yards and three touchdowns. Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians loved what Avery brought to the offense and that might be enough to bring him back in 2013, but Avery will likely check out his options on the free-agent market. If he does return to Indianapolis in 2013, then it might be a different story for him with T.Y. Hilton, Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen all entering their second NFL seasons. Don't forget Reggie Wayne is also under contract, so Avery will be competing with many quality players for targets. Track Avery's offseason progress before finalizing your Draft Day plans next season, but as of now he is looking like nothing more than a late-round Fantasy option.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery was dealing with a shoulder issue entering the Week 17 regular-season finale against the Texans. Avery was active for the game, but may have been limited as he was targeted just once by quarterback Andrew Luck. Avery did not make a catch in the win over the Texans.
Analysis: Avery put together an ugly finish to the season and clearly proved his position on the depth chart as the third receiving option for Luck and the Colts behind Reggie Wayne and T.Y. Hilton. Avery had a few solid games this year but was highly inconsistent. He is not a recommended Fantasy option heading into the playoffs and will likely not be worth drafting entering next year.
News: Colts wideout Donnie Avery is active for the Week 17 regular-season finale against the Texans Sunday. Avery was a question entering Sunday as he was listed as questionable on the injury report with a shoulder issue. Avery's practice status varied throughout the past week and he did not participate in Friday's workout. That said, he is able to suit up against the Texans. Avery struggled against Houston Week 15 as he caught just three passes for 37 yards. In fact, Avery hasn't topped 40 receiving yards in his last three games and hasn't scored since notching two touchdowns Week 13 at Detroit.
Analysis: Avery has tapered off considerably for quarterback Andrew Luck and the Colts since going for 91 yards and two scores against the Lions a few weeks back. He has had a couple of excellent games this season but otherwise has been a highly inconsistent Fantasy option. The Texans have not been great defending wide receivers this season and are allowing the ninth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts (22.2). Avery should see plenty of looks but is nothing more than a low-end flex option for Week 17.
News: Indianapolis wide receiver Donnie Avery was listed as questionable on the team's injury report for Week 17 against Houston with a shoulder issue. Avery's practice status varied throughout the past week and he did not participate in Friday's workout. He was limited Thursday after taking part in full in Wednesday's practice. Avery struggled against the Texans in Week 15 as he caught just three passes for 37 yards. In fact, Avery hasn't topped 40 receiving yards in his last three games and hasn't scored since notching two touchdowns Week 13 at Detroit.
Analysis: Avery has tapered off considerably for quarterback Andrew Luck and the Colts since going for 91 yards and two scores against the Lions a few weeks back. He has had a couple of excellent games this season but otherwise has been a highly inconsistent Fantasy option. The Texans have not been great defending wide receivers this season and are allowing the ninth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts (22.2). Avery should see plenty of looks but is nothing more than a low-end flex option for Week 17.
News: Indianapolis wide receiver Donnie Avery is looking to finish the regular season with a flourish Week 17 at home against Houston. With the Colts not needing a win to further their seeding for the playoffs, Andrew Luck and company still want to keep Houston from the top spot in the AFC. Avery struggled against Houston Week 15 as he caught just three passes for 37 yards in that game. In fact, Avery hasn't topped 40 receiving yards in his last three games and hasn't scored since notching two touchdowns Week 13 at Detroit.
Analysis: Avery has slowed down considerably for Luck and the Colts since going for 91 yards and two scores against the Lions a few weeks back. Avery has had a couple excellent games this season but has otherwise been a highly inconsistent Fantasy option. The Texans have not been great defending wide receivers this season. They are allowing the ninth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts. Avery should see plenty of looks but is nothing more than a low-end flex option for Week 17.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery posted his third straight game with 30-plus receiving yards in Week 16 against the Broncos. Avery hauled in five catches for 38 yards in the 20-13 win, but was unable to get into the end zone. He had a long of 28 yards and was targeted nine times by Andrew Luck, which was second to Reggie Wayne's 12 targets.
Analysis: Avery did not have one of his better games Sunday as he had a few drops, which could have upped his production. The 28-year-old continues to take a backseat to Reggie Wayne and T.Y Hilton most weeks as he has hauled in eight receptions for 106 yards over his last three games. While Avery has turned in a few big performances, his inconsistent production makes it tough to trust him as a starter most weeks. Only owners in deeper formats should consider rolling with Avery as a flex option heading into Week 17 against the Texans.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery will be hoping to see a few more passes thrown in his direction during Week 16 against the Chiefs. Avery, who has 55 receptions on the season, hauled in just three passes for 37 yards in Indianapolis' loss to the Texans last week. He has caught three passes in three of his last four contests and will be facing a Kansas City defense that is allowing an average of 216 passing yards per contest. The Chiefs have surrendered 25 TDs through the air while yielding an average of 21.1 Fantasy points to opposing WRs, which ranks 16th overall.
Analysis: While Avery has turned in a few big-time performances this season, he continues to take a backseat in the passing game to Reggie Wayne and T.Y Hilton, which hurts his production. He has totaled fewer than 37 yards in four of his last five contests and has only found the end zone three times the entire season. While the Chiefs have not done a very good job keeping opposing wideouts out of the end zone thus far, Avery's inconsistent production makes it tough to trust him as a starter -- especially this week. Only owners in the deepest of formats should consider taking a flier on the 28-year-old as a flex option this week.
News: For the fourth time in five games, Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery was held under 40 yards receiving in Week 15 against the Texans Sunday. Avery brought in three passes for 37 yards, with a long reception of 15 yards. He was targeted five times in a 29-17 loss.
Analysis: Avery had a huge 91-yard, two-touchdown game two weeks ago, but has done remarkably little otherwise. At this point, he is clearly the third option in the passing game, at best, and is simply not getting the job done consistently. He does have a career high 743 receiving yards this season, but the majority of those yards have come in a handful of games. The Colts have a good matchup on the slate next Sunday, against a Chiefs defense that allows 21.7 Fantasy points per game to wide receivers. Consider Avery a risky Fantasy start, only worth considering in deeper formats for Week 16.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery was able to play in Week 15 against the Texans Sunday, after being limited at times during the week during practice due to a rib injury. He was able to practice in full Thursday and Friday and was not expected to miss the game.
Analysis: Avery has just 11 catches over the last three games, despite being targeted 30 times in the passing game. He has proven he can make an impact in the passing game, but it appears as if he is just the third-most reliable Fantasy option at receiver on the team. Keep him active in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: The Houston Texans have given up seven receiving touchdowns in the last four games. And those touchdowns have gone to seven different receivers, which is good news for Donnie Avery owners, as the Colts have three legitimate receiving options, between Avery, T.Y. Hilton, and Reggie Wayne. Avery is expected to suit up Sunday after being listed as probable on the injury report with a ribs issue. He was a full participant in practice over the past two days, including Friday, after being limited during Wednesday's workout.
Analysis: Avery has been targeted 30 times over the last three games -- leading the team in the category over that span -- but he has turned just 11 of them into receptions, averaging 51 yards per game. Avery's two touchdowns in Week 13 against the Lions were his first since Week 1, and he's been practicing with a rib injury -- which has been downplayed by the team -- leading up to the game. While Avery could explode for a big game at any time, CBSSports.com's Fantasy Analysts have Hilton and Wayne ranked about 20 spots ahead of him, making Avery a low-end option at WR or flex, better left to benches in most formats for Week 15.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery was a full participant in practice Thursday after being limited Wednesday because of an injury to his ribs. The Colts are at Houston Week 15.
Analysis: It seems Avery's injury isn't a major ordeal, so there is no need for Fantasy owners to worry. Avery has managed at least 10 Fantasy points just three times this season. He also has just three touchdowns. He is a regular part of the Colts' passing game, but he just isn't a reliable Fantasy option. Avery has low-end Fantasy appeal heading into Week 15.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery was limited in practice Wednesday because of an injury to his ribs. The Colts are at Houston Week 15.
Analysis: Colts interim coach Bruce Arians didn't talk about Avery's injury Wednesday, so it probably isn't a major concern. It was probably just a day to give him some rest. Avery has managed at least 10 Fantasy points just three times this season. He also has just three touchdowns. He is a regular part of the Colts' passing game, but he just isn't a reliable Fantasy option. Avery has low-end Fantasy appeal heading into Week 15.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery had a brutal dropped pass as he was wide open in the end zone late in the Week 14 win over Tennessee Sunday. Avery couldn't haul in Andrew Luck's pass, and finished with just three catches for 31 yards despite nine targets overall. Avery also rushed once for 3 yards in the game.
Analysis: Avery caught two touchdown passes Week 13 at Detroit but was back to mediocrity on Sunday against the Titans. Tennessee must have keyed on Avery as the receiver was largely held in check all game. He had one of his poorer efforts, but could bounce back Week 15 at Houston. The Colts are going to throw the ball if they hope to have a chance against the Texans so Avery should see plenty of looks. He can be active in deeper formats at the flex position, but has little value outside of that for the Week 15 game.
News: Colts receiver Donnie Avery will be looking to stay hot heading into Week 14 at home against the Titans. Avery is coming off a 91-yard, two-touchdown performance against the Lions in Week 13. He'll face a Tennessee secondary that has allowed three touchdowns in the last two games. Avery racked up just 42 yards in his last meeting against the Titans in Week 8.
Analysis: Avery has only faced his former team twice in his career and has only collected a total of 56 yards over that span. He has collected 22 targets and has turned it into eight catches for 122 yards and two touchdowns over his last two games. That said, he's starting to get more involved on offense and with Andrew Luck lighting it up recently, we expect him to earn a high number of targets. Opposing wide receivers have averaged 22.2 Fantasy points per game against the Titans this season. Fantasy owners should view the 28-year-old as a low-end option in most formats heading into Week 14.
News: Colts receiver Donnie Avery had a dominant game Sunday at the Lions in Week 13. Avery had five catches for 91 yards and two touchdowns on a game-high 14 targets. He scored a 17-yard touchdown in the first quarter and the game-winning score with three seconds left in the fourth quarter from 14-yards out.
Analysis: This was Avery's first touchdown since Week 1 and easily his best game of the season. We hope he can build off this performance in Week 14 against the Titans at home. Avery had four catches for 42 yards against Tennessee earlier this year. Consider him a low-end No. 3 Fantasy receiver in Week 14.
News: Colts receiver Donnie Avery heads into Week 13 at Detroit hoping to end a three-game slump. In his past three games, Avery has combined for 10 catches for 130 yards and no touchdowns. Avery was good the game prior to this streak with five catches for 108 yards, but he hasn't scored since Week 1 and continues to lose production to T.Y. Hilton.
Analysis: We like Avery's upside for the Colts, but he has failed to produce time and again. Even with a positive matchup against the Lions this week we would keep him reserved in all formats.
News: Fantasy owners will hear a familiar refrain when it comes to Donnie Avery's Week 12 results: A lot of playing time and a lot of targets but not a lot of stats. Despite being targeted eight times, Avery caught just three passes for 31 yards. Avery played nearly every snap as the second receiver opposite Reggie Wayne.
Analysis: Avery hasn't scored since Week 1 and has posted one game with more than 70 yards in his last nine. The only saving grace to Avery is that when his Colts are in matchups that are expected to be high scoring, he has potential for a pretty decent stat line. Such is the case when they play at the Lions in Week 13. Consider Avery a risky option; rookie T.Y. Hilton has been doing more with fewer targets for the Colts.
News: Indianapolis wide receiver Donnie Avery is active for Week 12 against Buffalo after quickly overcoming a concussion he suffered in his previous game last Sunday. Avery was a full participant in practice throughout the past week and has showed no visible signs of the head issue to be listed as probable on the injury report. He will be facing a Bills defense that is permitting 234.1 passing yards per game this season. Avery has topped the century mark in yards during two of his 10 games, but has not reached the end zone since the season opener.
Analysis: Avery will be attempting to bounce back from an injury and a poor showing in his previous game when he managed only three receptions for 34 yards -- his third-lowest output of the season. He has remained highly targeted in the Colts' passing game despite the scoring drought and is second on the team in looks behind only Reggie Wayne (130-79). Buffalo is allowing an average of 23.4 Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers this season, which makes Avery a viable option in deeper formats for Week 12.
News: Indianapolis wide receiver Donnie Avery was considered probable for Week 12 against Buffalo despite sustaining a concussion in his previous game last Sunday. Avery was a full participant in practice throughout the past week and has showed no visible signs of the head issue. If active, he will be facing a Bills defense that is permitting 234.1 passing yards per game this season. Avery has topped the century mark in yards during two of his 10 games, but has not reached the end zone since the season opener.
Analysis: Avery will be attempting to bounce back from an injury and a poor showing in his previous game when he managed only three receptions for 34 yards -- his third-lowest output of the season. He has remained highly targeted in the Colts' passing game despite the scoring drought and is second on the team in looks behind only Reggie Wayne (130-79). Buffalo is allowing an average of 23.4 Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers this season, which makes Avery a viable option in deeper formats for Week 12 as long as he's active.
News:The Indianapolis Star reports Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery practiced Wednesday. He left Sunday's game against the Patriots with a concussion. Indianapolis hosts Buffalo Week 12.
Analysis: It's definitely a good sign to see Avery practicing Wednesday. There is still no word yet if he has been cleared to play. If he does suit up Week 12, then consider Avery a low-end Fantasy option in deep formats.
News: Indianapolis wide receiver Donnie Avery left in the second quarter of Week 11 at New England with a concussion and was ruled out for the rest of the game, according to the Indianapolis Star. Avery sustained the injury on a jarring hit during a 19-yard reception with less than two minutes remaining in the first half. He finished with three receptions on four targets for 34 yards before the early exit.
Analysis: Avery has been used as one of a handful of secondary receivers behind standout Reggie Wayne for the Colts and entered Sunday's game with 38 receptions on the season. The 28-year-old had also topped 65 yards in each of his past two games, but his playing status for Week 12 against Buffalo could be in jeopardy. If he misses time, T.Y. Hilton and Lavon Brazill could see additional targets against the Bills. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on Avery's status and considered him a reserve option in deeper formats.
News: After watching his yardage totals reach abysmal levels throughout the month of October, punctuated by a season-low 22-yard performance against Green Bay in Week 4, Indianapolis wide receiver Donnie Avery has rebounded admirably the past two weeks. During that two-game stretch, the 28-year-old has recorded nine receptions for 173 yards, which includes a pair of catches of at least 40 yards (48, 44). He will attempt to extend that streak during Week 11 at New England, which is allowing 285.3 passing yards per game.
Analysis: Avery is still receiving a decent number of targets from quarterback Andrew Luck, but has had difficulty turning those looks into catches. He has collected at least six targets in each game this season, but has not reached the end zone since the season opener at Chicago. Avery still has to contend with Andrew Luck and now T.Y. Hilton near the end zone, but could be in line for a quality outing against the Patriots, who are permitting ab average of 25.4 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts. Consider Avery a decent bye-week replacement for Week 11.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery was able to stay productive during Thursday's game against the Jaguars in Week 10. Avery was able to stretch the field and make some big plays, including a big 44-yard gain in the second quarter, which led to an Andrew Luck rushing touchdown. Avery caught four of the six passes thrown his way and finished with 65 yards in a 27-10 victory. He was the second-leading receiver behind Reggie Wayne, who collected 96 yards receiving.
Analysis: Avery could have picked up some more yards as he dropped some big passes down the field that could have gotten him close to breaking the century mark again. He has caught 13 passes for 215 yards in his last three games and has emerged as the team's second option in the passing game behind Wayne. He'll have look to get back in the end zone against the Patriots in Week 11. The Patriots have surrendered a touchdown to a wide receiver in all but one of their first eight games this season. Fantasy owners should view him as a viable option in deeper formats heading into Week 11 at New England.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery was ruled active for Thursday night's game against the Jaguars in Week 10 despite dealing with a hip injury. Avery suffered a hip injury against the Dolphins in Week 9, but was a full participant in practice all week and is expected to start, according to the Indianapolis Star-Tribune. Avery played against the Jaguars Week 3, totaling two receptions for 28 yards. He has three catches for 45 yards with a touchdown in three career games against the Jaguars.
Analysis: Avery was having a big game Week 9 before getting hurt. He went over 100 yards for the second time this season. Unfortunately, his touchdown drought reached seven games. Now that he's suiting up to take the Jaguars, Fantasy owners should consider starting Avery in deeper formats heading into Week 10.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery, who suffered a hip injury Sunday against the Dolphins, practiced in full for a second straight day Wednesday. However, he was listed as questionable for Week 10 at Jacksonville (Thursday). Avery played against the Jaguars Week 3, totaling two receptions for 28 yards. He has three catches for 45 yards with a touchdown in three career games against the Jaguars.
Analysis: The Colts are probably being cautious by listing Avery as questionable. They probably wants to see how his hip responds to two days of practice and before Thursday's game before clearing him to play. But it definitely looks encouraging for him to suit up, so if active, then Fantasy owners in deep formats should consider starting Avery. Wide receivers average 168.6 yards and 21.3 Fantasy points per game against Jacksonville.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery, who injured his hip Week 9 against the Dolphins, practiced Tuesday. He will likely be considered a game-time decision Thursday against the Jaguars (Week 10), but he did practice in full Tuesday, which could help his chances of playing. Avery played against the Jaguars Week 3 this season and caught two passes for 28 yards in that game. He has three catches for 45 yards with a touchdown in three career games against the Jaguars.
Analysis: Avery was having a big game Week 9 before getting hurt. He went over 100 yards for the second time this season. Unfortunately, his touchdown drought reached seven games. If active, Avery could be used in deeper Fantasy formats. If he is out, then T.Y. Hilton likely benefits and could become a sleeper start in deep leagues.
News: Colts receiver Donnie Avery was on his way to his best game in weeks Sunday against the Dolphins, as he posted five catches for 108 yards through two-plus quarters. Unfortunately, he took a hard hit in the third quarter that left him with a hip pointer injury. He is questionable to return.
Analysis: Avery now has two 100-yard games on the season, though it may have come at a serious cost moving forward. We will keep an eye on his progress moving forward, as he was looking like a solid No. 2 option in a potent passing game. He would be worth using as a low-end starting option in Week 10 in Jacksonville Thursday, if he can get active ahead of a short week.
News: After a hot start to the season, Colts receiver Donnie Avery’s production has slowed to a crawl in recent weeks. Avery scored a touchdown in the first game of the season and followed that up with a 111-yard performance in Week 2; in five games since, he has just 17 catches for an average of 39.6 yards per game. Avery will take on the Dolphins in Week 9.
Analysis: The Dolphins rank 23rd in the NFL in Fantasy points allowed to opposing wide receivers, so they have been vulnerable through the air. Unfortunately, a decent matchup is not enough to make Avery a reliable Fantasy option. Consider him just a low-end flex option in most Fantasy formats for Week 9.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery recorded four catches for 42 yards during Indianapolis' 19-13 overtime win over Tennessee in Week 8. It was the second straight game his yardage output has decreased as he managed a subpar 10.5 yards per reception. He finished with seven targets from quarterback Andrew Luck, the second-highest total on the team behind Reggie Wayne (11 looks).
Analysis: Avery is still racking up a decent number of targets from Luck, but he has been unable to exceed four receptions since Week 2. The 28-year-old is still the secondary option to Reggie Wayne in the passing game and his six-game scoreless streak has served as evidence. However, Luck has struggled himself and has not thrown a touchdown pass to a receiver in his past three games. Fantasy owners should continue to consider Avery a low-end option in most formats and is a decent bye-week replacement for Week 9 against Miami.
News: Indianapolis wide receiver Donnie Avery has been no stranger to scoring droughts during his brief NFL career and is currently in the midst of another tough stretch. Avery has not reached the end zone in his past five games since recording a touchdown in Week 1 against Chicago, but will attempt to fix that during Week 8 against Tennessee. The Titans are allowing 281.4 passing yards per game this season.
Analysis: Avery followed up his scoring outing against the Bears with a 100-yard performance versus Minnesota as he appeared to be viewed as an integral member of the Colts' offense. But he has slumped mightily since then and failed to surpass 60 yards over his last four games while Reggie Wayne has clearly taken over as quarterback Andrew Luck's main target. Tennessee is also surrendering an average of 22.1 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts as well as a touchdown in three straight weeks (four total). Consider Avery a possible bye-week replacement for Week 8.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery had a so-so performance in the Week 7 win over the Browns Sunday. Avery was targeted six times by quarterback Andrew Luck in the game and finished with four catches for 46 yards. He did not score in the game as Luck did not have any touchdown passes.
Analysis: Avery recorded a touchdown Week 1 and went for over 100 yards Week 2 for the Colts. He's really done little since. Heading into Week 8 at Tennessee, Avery is too inconsistent to be a viable option outside the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery has a solid matchup ahead of him for the Week 7 game at home against the Browns. Cleveland is allowing the second-most Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers this season and has given up an NFL-high 100 catches for 1,279 yards and an NFL-high 12 touchdowns. A.J. Green lit up the Browns last week and that was in a game Cleveland actually won. We expect Andrew Luck to be firing all over the field, especially after Avery was targeted 13 times last week.
Analysis: Avery had his second best game of the season last week in New York against the Jets as he went for four catches for 60 yards. That said, he should have had so much more as he was targeted 13 times. Avery has had a few good games, but Reggie Wayne has been the only consistent pass-catching option for Luck this season. Avery can be used in Fantasy in a pinch for Week 7, but is nothing more than a low-end flex option as a last resort.
News: Indianapolis wide receiver Donnie Avery hauled in four of his team-high 12 targets from quarterback Andrew Luck for 60 yards during the Colts' 35-9 loss to the Jets in Week 6. Avery's four receptions were his most since he registered nine catches in Week 2 against Minnesota. He posted a long gain of 24 yards as his average of 15.0 yards per carry marked his best of the season. Avery also lost a yard on an end-around play.
Analysis: Avery was in desperate need of a strong performance after totaling just 50 yards on five receptions in his past two games combined. While his numbers against the Jets represent an improvement, it would have been beneficial had he captured more of his looks from Luck. Plus, his scoreless streak reached four games. At this point, Avery should be viewed as a reserve option in deeper Fantasy formats for Week 7 against Cleveland.
News: Since amassing nine receptions for 111 yards in Week 2 against Minnesota, Indianapolis wide receiver Donnie Avery has struggled to match that production since then. It hasn't even been close. Avery has tallied just five catches for 50 yards total in his last two games combined while his scoreless streak has reached three weeks. He hopes to snap out of his funk during Week 6 against the Jets, who are allowing just 199.8 passing yards per game this season.
Analysis: Fantasy owners are beginning to lose patience with Avery and he needs an improved performance against New York in order to salvage some respectability. His yardage totals have dropped in each game since his 111-yard showing and he managed a meager 7.3 yards per catch last Sunday against Green Bay. Meanwhile, rookie T.Y. Hilton could continue to swipe targets from him if he doesn't find ways to get open. The Jets are relinquishing an average of 15.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this year, but Avery is only considered a possible flex option in deeper formats for Week 6.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery was targeted eight times in Sunday's 30-27 victory over the Packers. He caught three passes for 22 yards.
Analysis: There are two ways to look at this performance: 1. Avery was targeted eight times, receiving more targets than anyone on the Packers. This is good and Luck will continue to look to him in the future. 2. Avery only caught three passes on eight targets. Boo. Now, the truth probably lies more with the former than the latter. Avery was slightly overthrown on a long pass that would have been a sure touchdown and he could have had an 80-yard, one-touchdown day if Luck had just put a little less power behind the pass. Two inches of air took away a big day for him; Avery was looked at often in this game, and should continue to be a flex option in deeper leagues.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery has been a bit of an enigma so far this season, with a decent three catch-37 yard-one touchdown game, a big nine catch-111 yard game, and a disappointing two catch-28 yard game. Making him even more maddening? The games came in that order, with his breakout game slapped right in between his two relative downers.
Analysis: Reggie Wayne has established himself as Andrew Luck's clear No. 1 target, but Avery looked like he was on the path to becoming a solid No. 2 after a checking off the "touchdown" and "100 yard game" boxes over the first two games. Then Week 3 came, and T.Y. Hilton put up the big numbers (113 yards on four receptions). It wasn't all bad for Avery, though, as he was targeted nine times in Week 3, meaning Luck didn't give up on him. In fact, Avery has 27 targets over his first three games, putting him on about the same target-per-game average as DeSean Jackson, Steve Johnson, Dennis Pitta, and Marques Colston. Luck has two 300-plus yard games under his belt already, and those passes have to go somewhere if he continues on that pace. If Avery can start converting the targets, he could work his way up to flex consideration. For now, though, he should only be started in deep (16 teams or more) leagues.
News: Indianapolis wide receiver Donnie Avery tallied two receptions for 28 yards -- both season lows -- during the Colts' 22-17 loss to Jacksonville in Week 3. Avery, who was coming off an impressive 111-yard performance against Minnesota a week ago, collected nine targets from quarterback Andrew Luck. Unfortunately, several of the passes fell short as his longest catch went for 15 yards.
Analysis: All of the progress Avery made last Sunday evaporated as Luck favored another receiver against the Jaguars in T.Y. Hilton (113 yards on four receptions). That will likely be the trend throughout the season as three different Colts receivers have not reached 100 yards during the first three weeks of the season. Fantasy owners should keep Avery on rosters in deeper formats, but his stating percentage will likely drop in Week 5 against Green Bay. Indianapolis is idle in Week 4.
News: SiriusXM NFL Radio reports Colts offensive coordinator Bruce Arians thinks the world of wide receiver Donnie Avery, who is coming off a nine-catch, 111-yard performance Week 2 against the Vikings. “I loved Donnie coming out (of college). I had him rated as the highest receiver coming out of the draft that year (2008)," Arians said. Sometimes hard luck hits a guy, injuries, he’s not in the right system, but ever since he’s been here, his confidence has grown, his speed is back, he’s healthy. It hasn’t been a surprise to me. It might be a surprise to him. I think the sky is the limit for this guy. He’s still young. I think we’ve got a diamond.”
Analysis: Avery has put together good numbers through two games. He has 12 catches for 148 yards and one touchdown through two games. He has also been targeted 18 times by quarterback Andrew Luck. Avery was a rising receiver before missing the 2010 season with a knee injury. He struggled to get back on track in 2011, but he seems to have found a situation where he can thrive. If you are looking for wide receiver help, then Avery could be worth a look off waivers. The Colts next host Jacksonville in Week 3. The Jaguars are limiting wide receivers to 13 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for sixth lowest in the NFL. Avery is still worth starting in deep formats Week 3.
News: Indianapolis wide receiver Donnie Avery finished with nine receptions for 111 yards during the Colts' 23-20 victory over Minnesota in Week 2. Avery, who started for the second straight week, took advantage of Austin Collie's absence due to a head injury and collected 10 targets from quarterback Andrew Luck as he was used mainly across the field and on slant patterns. His yardage total was also boosted by a 41-yard catch late in the first quarter to the Indianapolis 3-yard line.
Analysis: It appears Luck likes to spread the ball around. A week after targeting veteran Reggie Wayne 18 times, Avery was the focus of the passing game Sunday as he averaged 11.4 yards per reception. The 28-year-old offers a speedy option for the limited Colts' offense and should continue to receive plenty pf playing time as there is no timetable for Collie's return. Fantasy owners in deeper formats, especially PPR leagues, should grab him off waivers heading into Indianapolis' Week 3 matchup against lowly Jacksonville.
News: Wide receiver Donnie Avery commemorated his Colts' debut Week 1 against the Bears by scoring his first touchdown of the 2012 campaign. Avery's 4-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter was also the first touchdown pass of rookie quarterback Andrew Luck's career. Luck also targeted Avery on a 19-yard pass to the end zone earlier in the game, but it fell incomplete. Avery finished with three catches for 37 yards. He was targeted eight times.
Analysis: Avery started in place of the injured Austin Collie (head) Week 1. While he did score a touchdown, Avery left a lot of stats on the field. It's good to see Luck looking his way, especially down near the end zone. But Avery remains a Fantasy option for deeper formats heading into Week 2 against the Vikings.
News: Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery made his preseason debut for the Colts Saturday against the Redskins, and the team took every opportunity to get him involved in the passing game. Looking to make up for lost time, the veteran wideout was targeted seven times in the game, bringing in six of those for 38 yards. He worked with the first-team offense for much of the first half, as he looks to have an inside track on the team’s No. 3 receiver position.
Analysis: The Colts have expected Avery to crack the top three in the receiving depth chart even when he wasn't on the field, and they used him in that way this week. Another thing that helps his cause is that projected No. 2 receiver, Austin Collie, suffered a concussion last week and is doubtful for the start of the regular season. It looks like Avery should break camp with the team and could be in the starting lineup. Still, he has never topped 675 receiving yards in a season in his career, so Fantasy owners should leave him for the waiver wires on Draft Day.
News: Colts receiver Donnie Avery did not see the field during Sunday's preseason game against the Steelers. Avery was listed as active for the game, but did not see the field in the 26-24 defeat. He has been dealing with a thigh injury over the last few days at practice.
Analysis: Avery's thigh injury has really put him behind the eight ball as he has not been able to practice much over the last few weeks. The Indianapolis Star reported would need one of the other top Colts' receivers to go down with an injury to make the team and he may have gotten his break Sunday night as Austin Collie appeared to sustain another concussion. Still, this doesn't guarantee Avery of anything, but could give him the chance he needed to prove himslef. Keep an eye on his progress over the next two weeks. However, Avery will really need to establish himself before owners should even think about drafting him in any format.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports that Colts receiver Donnie Avery remains the No. 3 receiver option behind Reggie Wayne and Austin Collie even though he is dealing with a hip injury.
Analysis: Avery has a lot to prove before Fantasy owners can count on him. Keep an eye on his progress, but ignore him in most leagues on Draft Day.
News: Colts receiver Donnie Avery won't get a chance to face his old team after all. Indianapolis says two key free-agent acquisitions - Avery and defensive end Cory Redding - will not play in the preseason opener Sunday against St. Louis. Both were injured in practice during the past week. Avery is out with a bruised left thigh. Redding injured his left elbow, but the Colts have not disclosed the severity of the injury.
Analysis: Avery might have a hard time finding reps as Austin Collie and rookie T.Y. Hilton have been impressive in camp while he's sidelined. Keep him off of Fantasy rosters.
News: Wide receiver Donnie Avery will challenge Austin Collie for that second receiver spot on the Colts, but he'll sit out the first preseason game after bruising his thigh.
Analysis: Avery might have a hard time finding reps as Collie and rookie T.Y. Hilton have been impressive in camp while he's sidelined. Keep him off of Fantasy rosters.
News: According to thesidelineview.com, wide receiver Donnie Avery signed with the Colts on Friday. Avery reportedly had a handful of teams interested in his services this year.
Analysis: Avery made his decision as the Colts will have some spots to fill this offseason. Avery last played for the Titans and finished the year with three catches for 45 yards and a touchdown. All of his production came in Week 17. Fantasy owners shouldn't put too much stock in him though as he's not worth targeting on Draft Day at this time.
News: Coming into Week 17, Titans WR Donnie Avery had yet to make a catch this season, but he made up for it in the season's final game. In a win over the Texans, Avery made three catches for 45 yards, including a one-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter. Prior to the game, Avery had been targeted just five times all season, but he was thrown to six times just in Week 17.
Analysis: Avery made an impact in the season's final week, but that was after being a non-factor for the entire year. He is not likely to play a significant role next season, and he can be ignored in all drafts in the fall.
News: If WR Nate Washington (ankle) is limited Sunday, WRs Marc Mariani and Donnie Avery could receive added reps. Mariani had roughly 10 more snaps than usual last week because of Washington's injury. “We’ll have to be smart with that rotation,” coach Mike Munchak said on Wednesday. “Even if Nate’s feeling good, we have to be careful.”
Analysis: Even if Avery gets more time on the field, Tennessee is a running team. New Orleans is allowing 281.2 receiving yards per game and have given up 19 touchdowns through the air. Fantasy owners should not be starting Avery this week, even if you are desperate.
News: Titans WR Donnie Avery is steadily learning how to play split end in offensive coordinator Chris Palmer’s scheme by studying film on Kenny Britt. “I watched his first two games (this season) to see what they expect out of the X position,” Avery said. “I was able to familiarize myself with the position.”
Analysis: Avery has yet to catch a pass after signing with Tennessee in late September but it looks as though he is becoming more acclimated to the offense. Keep an eye on his progress going forward to see when he might start producing. But until he does, continue to ignore Avery in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
News: Newly signed WR Donnie Avery was involved in only one or two plays in his first game with the Titans in Week 4 against the Browns, according to coach Mike Munchak. “The goal will be to get him in more plays,” Munchak said Monday. “We had a day yesterday where we only had about 50 plays on offense because of the big plays.”
Analysis: Avery, who was released by the Rams earlier this month, could make an impact for the Titans with Kenny Britt done for the season so keep an eye on his progress going forward. But until he proves his worth on the field, continue to ignore the 27-year-old in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
News: Titans coach Mike Munchak said WR Donnie Avery, who was signed earlier in the week after Kenny Britt went on IR, is expected to be active Week 4 against the Browns. “If he does get in the game, we’ll put him in positions where he could make a play for us,” Munchak said. “He has a good chance to be (active).”
Analysis: It's interesting that the Titans are ready to trust Avery after a short turnaround, but they are green at the receiver position behind Nate Washington, so his NFL experience still might come in handy Sunday. We aren't saying activate Avery for Week 4, but he is certainly worth a look off the waiver wire in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: The Tennessee Titans have placed receiver Kenny Britt on injured reserve and signed Donnie Avery to fill his spot on the roster. The Titans announced the moves Wednesday just before practice. “I was saying when Kenny got hurt, the best thing to do is to talk to someone else who has been through it, and we ended up bringing in someone who has been through it,” Titans coach Mike Munchak told The Tennessean. Analysis: It's interesting that the Titans fill the roster spot of a player who is out with a torn ACL with a player that is coming off an ACL injury that forced him to miss the 2010 season. Avery was a promising receiver in St. Louis before the knee injury derailed his career. Perhaps down the line Avery will help replace Britt's production, but heading into Week 4 he remains a wait-and-see Fantasy option.
News: San Francisco worked out former St. Louis WR Donnie Avery on Thursday, according to the Sacramento Bee. Avery, a promising young receiver, tore his ACL in the preseason last year and was cut by the Rams after the preseason when the team apparently felt he hadn’t recovered sufficiently.
Analysis: Avery, who is known for blazing speed down the field, was squeezed out of St. Louis deep receiving corps that brought in several fresh faces. Avery was the first receiver selected in the 2008 NFL Draft and has 100 receptions and 1,263 receiving yards in two seasons. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status as he could warrant sleeper consideration in deeper formats depending on where he lands.
News: The Rams released WR Donnie Avery on Saturday, opting to go in a different direction with their offense. Avery was entering his fourth season coming off of a torn ACL and had been working mostly with the second-team offense during the preseason. In two NFL seasons (he did not play last year), he had 100 catches for 1,263 yards and eight touchdowns.
Analysis: Avery will probably get a look from some other teams in the near future, with the Lions a possibility (Scott Linehan, now the Lions offensive coordinator, made Avery the first receiver drafted in the 2008 draft). But he's not expected to be relevant enough for Fantasy use going forward.
News: St. Louis WR Donnie Avery played for the first time since last preseason and caught a 19-yard touchdown pass from A.J. Feeley in the third quarter during the Rams' preseason game against Tennessee on Saturday night. Avery finished with two receptions for 23 yards on five targets. “I’m really proud of Donnie and happy for him,” coach Steve Spagnuolo said. “I’d see him in the training room all last year-that’s not easy to do. And it was in a preseason game he got hurt. So he was the entire season, all 16 games. His teammates are celebrating when they win; I’m sure he feels just as bad when we didn’t. And then he has a little setback in training camp, but he bounces back and played the way he did tonight. It was good. Encouraged.”
Analysis: After missing the majority of training camp, Avery said his knee feels fine after suffering a torn ACL during last year's preseason. The speedy 27-year-old could play a key role in St. Louis this year with Josh McDaniels serving as the offensive coordinator. Fantasy owners should consider Avery, who has amassed 100 total catches in two years, as a possible sleeper candidate in deeper Fantasy drafts.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery, who missed two weeks of practice, said it felt good to return Wednesday. He also said his injured knee feels great, and he looked good on the field, making a couple of diving catches. Avery suffered a torn ACL in the third preseason game last year. He says he's eager to play Saturday against the Titans to "get his feet wet."
Analysis: Avery has not only been able to return to the field, but he has maintained his blazing speed. He ran a 4.29 40 over the summer while rehabbing his knee in Texas. “In this type of offense, you’ve got to be smart, but speed helps,” Avery said. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the situation, as the Houston product has some sleeper appeal heading into the year if he can maintain good health. Don't select him before the late rounds on Draft Day until he proves he can occupy a critical role in the team's new passing game under Josh McDaniels.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery, who missed the 2010 season after tearing his ACL in the preseason last year, was ruled inactive for Saturday's 2011 preseason opener against the Colts.
Analysis: Avery hasn't made a lot of headlines since training camp opened, so it doesn't seem he is fully 100 percent recovered. We still expect him to be ready for the start of the season, but if anything changes, we will let you know. Avery has a chance to step up in the Rams' passing game as it seems Mike Sims-Walker and Danny Amendola are the only receivers with spots solidified. Avery has the potential to be a sleeper if he is healthy, but he likely can go undrafted in most Fantasy formats. Let him prove healthy and productive first before taking a flier on him.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery was one of several St. Louis players at a workout in St. Louis on Tuesday, and he reportedly looked good and moved around without a problem. Avery is working his way back from a torn ACL suffered last preseason.
Analysis: Avery will likely be part of the WR mix for the Rams in 2011, and he has plenty of potential for Fantasy owners. With Josh McDaniels now calling plays, look for plenty of throws down the field, which is a specialty for Avery. He should see a decent amount of work but probably will have to prove that he's healthy and well-versed in McDaniels' offense before Fantasy owners take a shot on him. Expect him to go undrafted in leagues this summer.
News: According to FOXSports.com, Rams WR Donnie Avery is working out with QB Sam Bradford and a handful of teammates at the University of Houston. For Avery, he is trying to come back from last year's knee injury, which cost him the 2010 season. "You can look at it as being bad," Avery said of the missed year. "I looked at just observing, learning more. God lets everything happen for a reason. I got a lot of stuff done off the field. I started my foundation helping inner city kids so I looked at it with that mindset." Avery said he's recovered from the knee injury from a physical standpoint but he still has a mental hurdle to overcome. "I can't go as fast as those guys because it's still in my head," he said. "I'm trying to baby it a little bit because I'm five months out of surgery so it's still kind of in my head. Still got a long way to go."
Analysis: Avery will likely be part of the WR mix for the Rams in 2011, and he has plenty of potential for Fantasy owners. With Josh McDaniels now calling plays, look for plenty of throws down the field, which is a specialty for Avery. He should see plenty of targets, and he's worth a late-round pick on Draft Day assuming his knee is OK when the season starts.
News: Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo said Thursday that WR Donnie Avery “looks great” and continues to rehab his injured knee. Avery tore his ACL during a preseason game and missed the entire 2010 season. “He’s running around and is at a good point right now," Spagnuolo said.
Analysis: Avery has a lot of work to do to get into the thick of competition for a starting job with the Rams. While he dealt with his injury, receivers like Mark Clayton, Danny Amendola and Danario Alexander showed flashes of excellence with Sam Bradford. We've long believed that Avery was a pure speed receiver, nothing more, but it remains to be seen how much speed he actually has left following the ACL surgery. Tack on another playbook he'll have to learn, and we think it will be hard for Avery to post a strong 2011. Keep him off of rosters for now.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery had surgery Friday morning to repair a torn ACL, according to Avery's Twitter account. Avery suffered the injury in the second preseason game at New England.
Analysis: Avery was to be counted on as the No. 1 WR heading into 2010, but this exhibition injury ruined that plan. Avery should be back in 2011 and could be a nice sleeper option that slips in drafts because of this injury.
News: The Rams will place injured wide receiver Donnie Avery on injured reserve after he tore a knee ligament on Thursday at New England in preseason action. That means Avery is out for the season.
Analysis: Avery clearly needs to be left off Draft Day plans at this point considering his season is over before it even began. The third-year WR had come off two solid seasons and was going to be the top option in the passing game. Now you can ignore him in Fantasy.
News: Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo announced on Friday that Rams WR Donnie Avery has been diagnosed with a torn ACL in his right knee and will miss the 2010 season. He is going to wait a little while before having surgery, however. Avery was injured in the second quarter of Thursday's preseason game against the Patriots going up for a Sam Bradford pass. Danny Amendola and Laurent Robinson stand to gain from Avery's absence.
Analysis: This is terrible news for the Rams and Fantasy owners. The third-year receiver was coming off two solid seasons, in which he totaled 100 catches for 1,263 yards and eight touchdowns. He was expected to be a key figure in the development of the rookie Bradford. Now, this injury keeps Avery out for at least a season. He was a late-round Fantasy selection to begin with, so now you can take him out of your Draft Day plans.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery was carted off the field late in the second quarter of Thursday's preseason game against the Patriots with a right knee injury and coach Steve Spagnuolo said after the game that Avery likely suffered a significant injury. "We'll know further when we get the test. Hopefully, it's not (serious)," Spagnuolo said. Avery was injured on a deep pass from QB Sam Bradford down the right sideline. Avery went up for the pass and failed to come down with a reception. After hitting the ground, he grabbed his right knee immediately. After being looked at by trainers, Avery was carted off the field. His night ended after two catches for 48 yards, including a long gain of 32 yards. The incomplete pass was the only target Avery failed to catch. Avery's absence could open the door for players such as Laurent Robinson, Danny Amendola, Brandon Gibson, Keenan Burton and Michael Hoomanawanui to step up in the passing game.
Analysis: If this injury turns out to be serious, as speculated, it would be a devastating blow to the Rams' receiving corps. Avery led St. Louis in 2009 with 589 yards and five touchdowns. He was having a quiet preseason up until Thursday's injury. Even though Avery was likely going to be playing with a rookie QB for most of the season, he was still considered the team's best receiver. Avery was pretty much a late-round Fantasy WR before the injury. Stay tuned for further developments.
News: Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo said Tuesday he's looking for WR Donnie Avery to improve in 2010, which is his third year in the NFL. "I think Donnie's on course," Spagnuolo said. "He's going through the drudgery of training camp just like all of them, but in the third year he's expected to step it up. You go in your first year and he opened up some eyes. Last year he'll tell you he wasn't all that pleased with his overall year, so I think this year he's going to have a big one."
Analysis: Avery should be considered a sleeper on Draft Day since he will be the No. 1 WR for the Rams. The key for Avery is the development of rookie QB Sam Bradford, who will be a first-time starter. If Bradford can get Avery the ball then he has the chance to be a quality No. 3 Fantasy WR in all leagues. Plan on drafting Avery with a late-round pick.
News: Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo said Tuesday that WR Donnie Avery could be in for a rebound year. Avery dealt with a variety of injuries in 2009, including a concussion as well as ankle and shoulder problems. "He wants to do so well so badly," Spagnoulo said. "He's one of those guys you can't keep off the practice field."
Analysis: Avery had 47 receptions for 589 yards and five touchdowns in 2009. We like Avery as a sleeper this year, especially with new QB Sam Bradford. Plan on drafting Avery as a No. 4 Fantasy WR with a late-round pick.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Rams WR Donnie Avery is healthy. For Avery, that meant bouncing back from a series of nagging injuries that plagued him throughout 2009. Though Avery played all 16 games last season, he was bothered by a laundry list of injuries. His most serious injury came in the preseason, when he suffered a stress fracture in his left foot. He returned in time for the season opener, but then experienced problems with his ribs, hamstring, hip and shoulder. This offseason, Avery started a weight lifting program and changed his diet. As a result, he has added around 15 pounds of muscle and gotten rid of the nagging pain. "It's about playing healthy," he said. "Staying on the field, staying in the weight room, working with the trainer. Just staying healthy. Healthy is happy for me. I feel a lot better now. I absolutely feel the difference."
Analysis: Avery had 47 receptions for 589 yards and five touchdowns in 2009. Avery, who will be 26 next month, is entering his third NFL season and second under coach Steve Spagnuolo and offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur. He described himself as "more comfortable" because of his familiarity with the team's offense. Avery also hopes to double his touchdown total in 2010 and said he looks forward to being a deep threat once again. We like Avery this year, especially with new QB Sam Bradford. Plan on drafting Avery as a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR with a late-round pick.
News: The Rams made Oklahoma QB Sam Bradford the No. 1 overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, and it's in St. Louis where he'll play and attempt to resurrect the once-proud franchise. That stands to help the Rams' receiving corps, which underperformed for much of the 2009 campaign with the likes of Marc Bulger, Kyle Boller and Keith Null under center. Donnie Avery stands to benefit the most from Bradford's arrival as he's the most polished receiver on the Rams, though his stats certainly don't back that up (1,263 yards, eight TDs over two seasons).
Analysis: This is another reason to like Avery heading into the 2010 season. He's going to be a third-year receiver with good speed and a decent deep-ball game who could stand to benefit from having an improved passer in St. Louis. We still don't think he's worth taking before the late rounds of drafts, and now he has some competition from rookie WR Mardy Gilyard, who the Rams drafted in the fourth round, but a strong preseason might change that. Consider Avery a reserve Fantasy receiver at this point.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery caught two passes for 23 yards in Week 17 vs. the 49ers. Sadly, this led the team in yards.
Analysis: Avery finished 2009 with 47 catches for 589 yards and five touchdowns, which isn't that great. He'll need help to be a good Fantasy option in 2010, which will be his third year in the NFL. A new quarterback and some help at receiver could go a long way into making Avery a decent option. You'll think of him with a late-round pick in drafts this summer.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery, who suffered a mild quad strain Sunday, took part in limited practice for the third straight day Friday as the team prepares for Week 17 against the 49ers. He has been listed as probable for the game.
Analysis: Avery is a safe bet to play this weekend, but he has less than 50 yards receiving in each of his last five games. He's at best a No. 4 Fantasy WR, making him a last resort in most leagues.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery has a mild quad strain following Sunday's loss at Arizona. His status for Week 17 against San Francisco will be determined later in the week. Avery had only two catches for 24 yards against the Cardinals.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Avery's status and hope he can play against the 49ers. When healthy, Avery is a No. 4 Fantasy option. In Week 4 at San Francisco, Avery had three catches for 47 yards.
News: St. Louis WR Donnie Avery was a non-factor on Sunday in a Week 16 loss to the Cardinals. He made only two receptions in the game, gaining a total of 24 yards. He also had one carry in the game for 3 yards.
Analysis: Avery continues to struggle with Keith Null starting for the Rams. He has been a disappointment overall this season and Fantasy owners have benched him in most formats. He should remain on most benches for Week 17 against San Francisco although the Niners pass defense is not all that great. In Week 4 at San Francisco, Avery had three catches for 47 yards.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery had four catches for 32 yards Sunday against Houston. He was tied with Steven Jackson for the most receptions in the game, and he was second behind Jackson (41 yards) in yards.
Analysis: Avery has minimal Fantasy value in all leagues. The Rams have issues at QB with Keith Null starting for Kyle Boller. We'll find out if Boller will return in Week 16 at Arizona, but Avery is not a good Fantasy option in the majority of leagues against the Cardinals.
News: The St. Louis Rams canceled practice Thursday due to an undisclosed number of swine flu cases on the team, just three days before their home game against the Houston Texans. Coach Steve Spagnuolo would not say how many players had the illness but said five or six players had flulike symptoms, and added that other players had reported symptoms the last few weeks. He anticipated the Rams would return to practice on Friday with a workout that will incorporate some of the elements missed on Thursday. Two players, quarterback Kyle Boller and center Jason Brown, missed practice Wednesday and Spagnuolo said both players had flulike symptoms. Spagnuolo first reported Brown's illness on Monday, but Brown was back with the team Thursday and had been expected to practice before the team decided to send players home.
Analysis: We will know more about Boller and the status of key Rams' players like Steven Jackson and Donnie Avery when the Rams return to practice Friday. Jackson, who is dealing with a back injury, would be considered a must-start option against Houston if healthy, and Avery has minimal Fantasy value. Boller would likely start if healthy, but if he's out then Keith Null would start against Houston.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery, who had just three catches for 30 yards last week, did even less Week 14 at Tennessee. He finished with two catches for 14 yards, his lowest total since Week 3.
Analysis: Avery is the most reliable receiver on the Rams offense, but it's a poor offense, one that's no guarantee for even a single passing touchdown any given week. Avery is at best a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 15 against the Texans.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery, limited in practice all week by a shoulder injury, is active for Week 14 at Tennessee. He gets to take on the Titans' No. 31-ranked pass defense.
Analysis: Unfortunately, the Rams don't have a good pass offense, so Avery might not get a chance to take advantage of the good matchup. He's just a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: St. Louis WR Donnie Avery (shoulder) was a limited participant in practice all week as the team prepares for its Week 14 game at Tennessee. Avery appears to be on track to take on the Titans' No. 31-ranked pass defense Sunday and has been listed as probable for the contest.
Analysis: Avery has a great matchup against the Titans, but with his injury and QB situation (Kyle Boller remains the starter), Avery should only be considered in deeper leagues for Week 14. Keep an eye on his status to see if he's given clearance to play, but don't plan on using him in the majority of leagues Week 14.
News: The Rams listed WR Donnie Avery (shoulder) as limited in practice Wednesday, but he took most of the reps with the first team and appears on track to play against Tennessee's No. 31-ranked pass defense Sunday. Avery suffered a shoulder injury in Week 13 at Chicago and finished with three catches for 30 yards.
Analysis: Avery had a great matchup against the Titans, but with his injury and QB situation (Kyle Boller remains the starter), Avery should only be considered in deep leagues for Week 14. Keep an eye on his status to see if he's given clearance to play, but don't plan on using him in the majority of leagues this week.
News: Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo said WR Donnie Avery suffered a shoulder injury Sunday and has undergone an MRI exam Monday, the results of which are not yet known. He finished the game at Chicago with three catches for 30 yards and one carry for 15 yards. "He did go back in with a brace and kind of gutted it out, so hopefully that's an indication that he can go this week," Spagnuolo said about the Rams game at Tennessee in Week 14.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Avery's status heading into the game with the Titans. When healthy, Avery is a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR. He could have more value, but the Rams don't have a strong passing game with Kyle Boller starting at quarterback.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery had 3 catches for 30 yards in Week 13 at Chicago. He also got one carry for 15 yards. He was targeted eight times in the game.
Analysis: Avery has been around 3-4 catches for 50 yards in his last four games. Expect similar production out of him down the stretch, making him useful in only deeper leagues for Week 14 at Tennessee.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery caught four passes for 48 yards and a touchdown in a Week 12 loss to the Seahawks.
Analysis: Avery has five touchdowns this season but is far too inconsistent to be worth using outside of deeper Fantasy leagues as a flex option heading into Week 13 at Chicago.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery will get a new QB this week against Seattle with Kyle Boller replacing the injured Marc Bulger (leg). Boller started in Week 4 at San Francisco, and Avery was limited to three catches for 47 yards. He also had six catches for 46 yards and a fumble in Week 1 against Seattle when he was just coming back from a foot injury.
Analysis: Avery also hasn't scored a touchdown in three games against the Seahawks in his career, and the emergence of Brandon Gibson has taken away some of Avery's production. Consider Avery a low-end No. 3 WR this week.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery, who scored two touchdowns last week, couldn't get back in the end zone Week 11 against the Cardinals, but he did have four catches for a team-leading 65 yards.
Analysis: After a slow start, Avery looks like he's back to being the Rams' No. 1 target. Unfortunately, that's not the same as being the Patriots' No. 1 target. Avery might not get a chance for a 100-yard game, but he won't disappear either. He's worth using as a No. 3 Fantasy option Week 12 against the Seahawks.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery caught four passes for 67 yards and two touchdowns in Week 10 against New Orleans. He doubled his touchdown total with the performance.
Analysis: Avery had a combined four catches in his previous three games combined. The Rams offense looked suddenly vibrant and alive in Week 10 against the Saints and it could be a sign of things to come down the stretch. Even still, we don't recommend Avery as anything more than a No. 3 receiver in deeper leagues for Week 11 against Arizona. He is best saved as a reserve to be used as an injury-replacement when facing a favorable matchup. You can't rely on him to score two touchdowns every week.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery, who has been banged up a bit this season, heads into St. Louis' Week 10 vs. New Orleans after a week off to heal himself. The Saints rank 16th against the pass this season, but have only allowed six scores through the air.
Analysis: Avery has the potential to have a big game once in a while, but the St. Louis passing offense just hasn't been able to get going this season. For Week 10, only start Avery as a last-resort flex option in deeper leagues.
News: St. Louis WR Donnie Avery had only one catch in the team's Week 8 game against the Lions. The catch went for 15 yards. He was targeted six times in the game.
Analysis: Avery has only four combined catches in the Rams' last three games. This was the third time this season in eight games that Avery has made only one reception and the sixth time he has failed to catch a touchdown pass. This was one of Avery's best chances to have a big game, going against a weak Lions pass defense, but he could not capitalize. The Rams are on a bye Week 9 then take on the Saints Week 10. Avery will likely be considered a low-end option for that contest.
News: St. Louis WR Donnie Avery is active for the team's Week 8 game against the Lions. He had been probable with a shoulder injury.
Analysis: Avery is worth considering as a No. 3 Fantasy WR in Week 8, though he has the potential to be even better than that as the Rams-Lions game might become a high-scoring affair with two bad defenses on the field. If you own him, you might want to give him the nod.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery practiced in full Friday with a rib injury and is probable for Week 8 at the Lions. Avery has been limited in his last two games due to injuries but figures to be a factor here not only because of the Rams' thin receiving corps but because the Lions are bad against the pass.
Analysis: Avery is worth considering as a No. 3 Fantasy WR in Week 8, though he has the potential to be even better than that as the Rams-Lions game might become a high-scoring affair with two bad defenses on the field. If you own him, you might want to give him the nod.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery hurt his ribs and a shoulder in Week 7 loss to the Colts. Avery made two grabs for 58 yards.
Analysis: Avery is a decent WR who has a below-average QB throwing him the ball. He also keeps getting hurt, which limits his Fantasy value heading into Week 8 at Detroit. Use him as a bye-week replacement option if you must.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery (hip) was not named among the inactives for Week 7 vs. Indianapolis.
Analysis: Statistically, Avery has a tough matchup vs. the Colts in Week 7 as Indianapolis is ranked ninth vs. the pass. But it's reasonable to believe that Avery will see a lot of stats as the Rams play from behind, and that he's a candidate to score a touchdown. With six teams on bye this week, it's sensible to think of Avery as a No. 3 Fantasy WR since he might just continue his new-found touchdown streak.
News: After being held out of practice Wednesday and limited Thursday, Rams WR Donnie Avery (bruised hip) said he felt good in practice today and foresees "no problem" starting Sunday against Indianapolis. Avery hurt himself in the first quarter at Jacksonville last week.
Analysis: Statistically, Avery has a tough matchup vs. the Colts in Week 7 as Indianapolis is ranked ninth vs. the pass. But it's reasonable to believe that Avery will see a lot of stats as the Rams play from behind, and that he's a candidate to score a touchdown. With six teams on bye this week, it's sensible to think of Avery as a No. 3 Fantasy WR since he might just continue his newfound touchdown streak.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery (hip) was limited in practice Thursday after not participating Wednesday. He's likely to be in the four-receiver rotation Sunday against the Colts, although it won't be known how limited he will be until pregame warmups.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Avery and hope he can be 100 percent. We should know more based on his status in Friday's practice. When healthy, consider Avery a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR against the Colts.
News: Woes at wide receiver prompted the St. Louis Rams to trade starting linebacker Will Witherspoon for an Eagles backup with no career receptions. That puts the heat on Donnie Avery, who'll try to shake off a bruised hip and get back on the field this week against the unbeaten Colts. The second-year wide receiver didn't practice Wednesday while restricted to off-field drills, but expects to be ready. Two days earlier, an MRI exam that revealed a bruise instead of a stress fracture provided a measure of relief for a player who toughed out a solid rookie season with a similar injury. "It's just a little hump in the road," Avery said. "I'm going to get over it, get out there and make plays. The best receivers, you're always going to have obstacles." Avery said he's been experiencing sharp pain when he tries to stretch out on a route but expects daily massages to reduce that.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Avery heading into Week 7 against the Colts. If he's healthy, he should be considered a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo said WR Donnie Avery is "day-to-day" after leaving Sunday's game at Jacksonville with a hip injury. Spagnulo said Monday that Avery's MRI was negative. "They're calling it a bruise right now," Spagnuolo said. "I'm sure he's sore. I didn't see Donnie today, but he was already talking about getting out yesterday in the locker room. He was talking about, 'I'll be out there practicing coach, I'll be out there practicing.' That's him. ... He wants to come back. That's a good problem to have."
Analysis: Keep an eye on Avery heading into Week 7 against the Colts. If he's healthy, he should be considered a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR. Avery had one catch for a 17-yard touchdown against the Jaguars before leaving the game.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery, the team's leading receiver, got up slow and went to the bench after diving for a ball and landing hard in the second quarter of the team's Week 6 game at Jacksonville. It appears that the injury was to his hip.
Analysis: Avery scored a 17-yard touchdown in Week 6 before leaving with the injury. He was a sleeper candidate for this game but might be out for the rest of it. When healthy, Avery is at best a No. 3 Fantasy option.
News:Donnie Avery began living up to the St. Louis Rams' expectations when he scored last week against the Vikings. The second-year receiver had his best game of the season for the offense-deprived Rams last week with five receptions for 87 yards, and now he's looking for an encore. Head coach Steve Spagnuolo was happy with Avery's emergence, especially after his struggles to be a factor for a team averaging less than seven points per game, worst in the NFL. Avery leads the Rams with 18 receptions headed into this week's game at Jacksonville, where he'll play the league's 30th-ranked pass defense. "I thought he had some nifty little plays, and that's what we've been looking for out of Donnie," Spagnuolo said. "Certainly, if we can keep getting that and Donnie can keep progressing, it's going to help us."
Analysis: Avery's touchdown came late in the game against Vikings second stringers, but at least it was from QB Marc Bulger, who is expected to start for the Rams on Sunday. Avery is worth adding off of waivers in all leagues in the event he can get hot. He should be considered a possible No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 6, especially as a one-week replacement for a receiver on bye or with a tough matchup.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery caught five passes for 87 yards and a touchdown in a heavy Week 5 loss to the Vikings.
Analysis: Avery finally showed up in Week 5, and his Fantasy owners will be hoping the guy that threw him his first score of the season -- Marc Bulger -- can reclaim his starting job back for Week 6 at Jacksonville. The Jaguars have one of the worst pass defenses in the NFL, so Avery might be worth a shot in deeper leagues as a flex or bye-week replacement WR.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery, who was questionable for Week 5 with a hamstring issue, was not named among the inactives.
Analysis: Kyle Boller, not Marc Bulger, will throw Avery the ball on Sunday. Think of Avery as a No. 4 Fantasy WR option.
News: St. Louis WR Donnie Avery was limited in practice again on Friday with a hamstring injury as the team continues to prepare for its Week 5 game against Minnesota. Avery is considered questionable for the contest but the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Avery is expected to play and be a starter.
Analysis: The Rams are really banged up at the WR position heading into Week 5 and will need Avery to be active if at all possible. Think of Avery as a No. 4 Fantasy option as he will likely be active for Week 5.
News: Rams WRs Donnie Avery and Keenan Burton were taken out of practice Wednesday with sore hamstrings. Both starters are questionable for Sunday against Minnesota.
Analysis: Avery and Burton are expected to play against the Vikings. Consider Avery a No. 4 Fantasy WR, and Burton should not be used in most Fantasy leagues this week.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery led the team with three catches for 47 yards during a Week 4 loss to the 49ers. His longest catch went for 22 yards and was targeted four times.
Analysis: Avery might be in the starting lineup for the Rams, but his numbers are pretty bad. He has just 13 catches for 109 yards and no touchdowns. The Rams passing offense is pretty pathetic, and until that changes, Avery has low-end Fantasy appeal. The Rams play the Vikings in Week 5.
News: Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo said Monday that WR Donnie Avery injured his ribs after he was hurt in Sunday's game against Green Bay. Spagnuolo said Avery's x-ray came back negative, and "we think he's going to be OK." Spagnuolo said Avery is "a little sore" and they will check his status Wednesday to determine if he can play in Week 4 at San Francisco.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Avery's status heading into the game with the 49ers. Avery caught just three passes for 12 yards against the Packers and has struggled this year after being limited in the preseason with a foot injury. When healthy, Avery is a No. 4 Fantasy WR.
News: St. Louis WR Donnie Avery struggled again in Week 3's loss to the Packers. Avery caught just three passes for 12 yards and also was seen injured late in the game. He walked off on his own power and apparently just had the wind knocked out of him.
Analysis: Avery has just 10 catches for 62 yards in three games this season and has yet to find the end zone. The Rams offense has been dismal and Avery has been one of the bigger disappointments. He's been a low-end No. 3 Fantasy option but if you've used him that way, you have probably been disappointed as well. He's probably more of a No. 4 option Week 4 at San Francisco.
News: It's two games and two turnovers for Donnie Avery, the St. Louis Rams' second-round pick last year. He realizes more than those who are making him the franchise's latest scapegoat that it's two too many. Ball security suddenly has become an issue with a player expected to lead the team's thin and inexperienced wide receiver corps. His fumble at the Washington 5 in the fourth quarter last Sunday cost the Rams dearly in a 2-point loss, and he lost a fumble on a kickoff return to open the season. Returning to practice Wednesday was a major relief for Avery, the better to begin redeeming himself. "It was great to get back out there," Avery said. "I understand it's going to be a long week, but I just need to get ready." Quarterback Marc Bulger said Avery was tough enough on himself after Sunday's loss without teammates piling on. "We're going to need him for 14 more games, and he's too good of a player," Bulger said. "We can't let him get down, and he was back out there today looking great."
Analysis: Avery made six catches Week 1 for 46 yards but was absolutely awful in Washington. He's yet to score this season and the Rams offense has been pretty bad. We don't see that first TD coming Week 3 against Green Bay. He's a low-end No. 3 option Week 3. He has upside but until the Rams get better, we don't like him all that much.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery did more harm than good on Sunday in a Week 2 loss at Washington. Avery made one catch for 4 yards in the game. He also lost a fumble and made a costly block in the back penalty in the game.
Analysis: Avery made six catches Week 1 for 46 yards but was absolutely awful in Washington. He's yet to score this season and the Rams offense has been pretty bad. We don't see that first TD coming Week 3 against Green Bay. He's a low-end No. 3 option Week 3. The Rams cannot be very happy with him.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery will face a non-division opponent in Week 2 at Washington. The Redskins allowed 248 net yards passing in Week 1 at the Giants, including one touchdown pass. Avery led the Rams in receptions in Week 1 matchup against the Seahawks. He gained a total of 46 yards, also carrying the ball once for eight yards.
Analysis: Avery is expected to be the top receiver in St. Louis this season, but he got off to a slow start in Week 1. The matchup in Week 2 is not particularly attractive, but Avery can be considered a viable No. 3 receiver in most formats.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery led the Rams in receptions on Sunday in their Week 1 matchup with the Seahawks. He gained a total of 46 yards, also carrying the ball once for eight yards. His longest catch of the day went for 16 yards.
Analysis: Avery is expected to be the top receiver in St. Louis with the departure of Torry Holt to the Jaguars. He ranked second among NFC rookie WRs last season with 53 receptions for 674 yards and will likely improve on those numbers this year despite a likely increase in coverage by opposing defenses. He should be considered a low-end option in Week 2 as the Rams go up against a tough Redskins defense.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery is entering his second season in the NFL as he prepares for Week 1 at Seattle. Avery played two games against the Seahawks as a rookie in 2008 and caught nine passes for 85 yards without a touchdown. That, of course, came with Torry Holt as the No. 1 receiver on the team. This year, Avery is the top guy.
Analysis: Avery ranked 2nd among NFC rookie WRs last season with 53 receptions for 674 yards and is primed for a breakout sophomore season. Avery has the potential to be a No. 3 Fantasy WR but is still more of a low-end option Week 1 because we don't know how good this St. Louis passing game will be.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery (foot) was in the starting lineup for Thursday's preseason finale against the Chiefs, but only played for a few downs. He recorded no catches and was not targeted.
Analysis: Avery was expected to miss the first few weeks of the 2009 season, but he made a quicker than expected recovery and now could be in the starting lineup Week 1. Avery has the potential to be a No. 3 Fantasy WR, so continue to check his status leading up to Week 1 against the Seahawks. Avery had nine catches for 85 yards in two games against the Seahawks last season.
News: The time frame for Rams WR Donnie Avery to return from a broken bone in his foot has been anywhere from Week 1 to Week 3 of the regular season, but coach Steve Spagnuolo on Sunday wouldn't rule out the possibility of the team's No. 1 target getting limited time Thursday against Kansas City. "I don't know if there is going to be a final picture of it," Spagnuolo said. "It might be something we could do, but it is based on how he feels. He feels really good right now, and I talked about it before – he would have gone two weeks ago if he could have. He got out there and got some reps today and then we'll see where we are at for Thursday night."
Analysis: This would be tremendous news for Avery if he can return for the final preseason game. He appears on schedule for Week 1, which is a positive sign. Be careful when taking Avery on Draft Day, but he's still worth a late-round pick as a No. 4 Fantasy WR with the chance to be a No. 3 option once he's back on the field and healthy.
News: St. Louis Rams wide receiver Donnie Avery had been expected to miss up to the first two weeks of the season with a left foot stress fracture, but was back on the practice field Tuesday. "Like I tell my teammates, you know, I run fast but I heal faster," Avery joked after the workout at Rams Park, where he appeared on his way to a quick recovery. Avery was hurt during an Aug. 7 night scrimmage when a defensive back landed on his foot. After doing some individual drills Monday, Avery jumped into the team drills Tuesday.
Analysis: Avery became the Rams' No. 1 receiver after Torry Holt left through free agency. He burst on the scene last year after being bothered early by a hip injury. His speed forced defenses to account for him, and he had 53 catches for 674 yards and three touchdowns. On Tuesday, it looked like Avery didn't miss a step. In working with the reserves during a red zone drill, Avery made a great catch in the corner of the end zone by leaping and stretching his arms to haul in the ball and then getting his feet down in bounds. "Yeah, my hands still work," Avery said. "My feet still work." Be careful when taking Avery on Draft Day, but he's still worth a late-round pick as a No. 4 Fantasy WR. It sounds like he will be good to go come Week 1 -- something that didn't appear possible just a couple of weeks ago.
News: Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo said Sunday that WR Donnie Avery, who is out with a stress fracture in his foot and could miss four to six weeks, is doing well in his recovery. "I know today he ran pretty good," Spagnuolo said. "When I looked over and (team strength coach) Rock Gullickson was putting him through his conditioning, if he had his way he'd be going right now, but we're taking that one a little slow."
Analysis: This is a good sign that Avery is getting close in his recovery. Be careful when taking Avery on Draft Day, but he's still worth a late-round pick as a No. 4 Fantasy WR. It sounds like he could be ready for the start of the regular season.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery will miss four-to-six weeks with a stress fracture in his left foot. The injury could mean Avery will miss the first two regular season games. He was hurt in Friday's scrimmage and was in a walking boot as recently as Sunday. "We'll take it day by day, but it's going to be a lot of time," Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo said, acknowledging that the team will miss Avery's speed, but he still feels that quarterback Marc Bulger can get the job done.
Analysis: This hurts all the way around as Avery was considered by some to be a sleeper Fantasy option this season, and he was going to be counted on by the Rams as a No. 1 receiver. Now it appears he'll miss the rest of training camp and all of the preseason, thus stunting his progress for the start of the year. Moreover, a stress fracture could linger for an extended period of time, so the Rams need to take care of their top target or else he'll deliver diminished returns. Avery is a good fit for what the Rams are doing on offense, but without him at full speed and health, he's not going to post big Fantasy totals. Consider him a reserve Fantasy WR worth a middle- to late-round pick in drafts.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the Rams coaches are starting to gain confidence in young receivers Donnie Avery, Keenan Burton and Laurent Robinson after watching them perform during OTA workouts and minicamps. Avery and Burton will enter their second seasons with the Rams, Robinson his third in the NFL. Their combined statistics through four seasons: 108 receptions for 1,335 yards and five touchdowns. Offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur can see the potential of the trio. "I like the guys we have," Shurmur said. "I think they're playing hard. They're working hard to get open, and they're really working hard at catching the football. I think they're all trying to think of themselves as playmakers, and that's what you want."
Analysis: We like Avery the best of this group, and he has the potential to be a No. 3 Fantasy WR this season. He's worth drafting with a late-round pick, but think of him as a No. 4 option on Draft Day. Burton and Robinson are candidates to add off the waiver wire, especially if QB Marc Bulger develops a rapport with these guys early on.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the Rams are looking for help at the WR spot. Donnie Avery, Keenan Burton and Laurent Robinson finish the spring as the top three wideouts, but Burton has missed valuable practice time because of a hamstring injury. The report asks if there another Isaac Bruce or Torry Holt in that group, or among backups Brooks Foster, Tim Carter and Chad Lucas? "We have a ways to go," QB Marc Bulger said. "I don't think there will ever be another Torry and Isaac, but our guys are working hard. They're starting to make plays. I think they are playing faster now because they are starting to learn what's going on."
Analysis: Avery has the most potential of this group and should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR coming into the season. He's worth a mid-round pick. Burton and Robinson also have potential, but they are not worth drafting in most seasonal formats. Ignore Foster, Carter and Lewis coming into seasonal leagues this year on Draft Day.
News: According to the team web site, the Rams should be OK at wide receiver even though Torry Holt is gone one year after Isaac Bruce left the team. QB Marc Bulger isn't worried. "I think we're fine," Bulger said. "Like coach says, you always want more competition at every position. That makes us better. A lot of these kids I don't know some of their names. I know their numbers right now. But we have some speed; we have some guys that can move. Obviously, the guys we had last year are doing a great job, but we have some sleepers in there I think that are going to surprise you guys." As it stands, it appears second-year men Donnie Avery and Keenan Burton are all but sure things to sit atop the depth chart. Laurent Robinson, acquired from Atlanta via trade before the draft, is also right in the mix. Beyond that trio, the Rams have Derek Stanley recovering from a serious knee injury and fifth-round draft pick Brooks Foster.
Analysis: Avery has the most potential of this group and should be considered a strong No. 3 Fantasy WR coming into the season. He should assume the No. 1 spot and played well as a rookie. We also expect Burton to make some plays this year as the other starting option. Beyond that, Robinson can be a sleeper but only in deep formats, and Stanley and Foster aren't worth drafting coming into the year.
News: Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo is excited about the prospects for WR Donnie Avery this year. Avery is expected to be the No. 1 targer for the Rams this year. "Well, I've said this about every guy that was a rookie last year and is going into year two that's really the year you need to see a big jump," Spagnuolo said. "I don't know that I've seen him enough. Again, you don't see them in the live work, but everything that you can evaluate in a practice like this says that he's going to be fine."
Analysis: Avery is a solid Fantasy option coming into this year and should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR with upside. The Rams need plenty of help in their passing game, and Avery could fill the role as Marc Bulger's top target. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues.
News: The Rams have released veteran WR Torry Holt, ending his 10-year tenure with the club. It was previously reported that Holt wasn't happy with the direction of the club or his role with the team. Donnie Avery becomes the Rams' best receiving threat with Holt's departure.
Analysis: Avery was a flash-in-the-pan sensation for the Rams as a rookie, getting 218 yards on 10 catches with two touchdowns in a two-week span. After that, he was mostly useless, finishing the season with 674 yards on 53 catches (12.7 avg.) and three touchdowns (the third came in Week 17). Worse yet, Avery was the pet project of Scott Linehan, who was fired as the Rams head coach last season. Chances are the club will still utilize him regularly (they don't have a better receiving option now), so expect decent totals but inconsistent production over the course of the season. Avery should be considered a situational No. 3 Fantasy WR worth a look in weeks when the Rams play indoors. He's a risky pick, which is why someone will take him in the middle-to-late rounds in drafts this summer.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery had five catches for 40 yards in Week 17 in Atlanta, including a 16-yard touchdown catch. He finished the season with 53 catches for 674 yards and three touchdowns.
Analysis: Avery showed some flashes of potential as a rookie, but was inconsistent as most first year players are. The Rams were a dysfunctional group offensively this season and will have a lot of work to do in the offseason. Look to see where Avery fits in, but he has the potential to become a No. 3 receiver or matchup option again next season.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery had five catches for 56 yards Week 16 against the 49ers, putting him over 50 yards for the second straight week. He has gone eight straight games without a touchdown, however.
Analysis: Avery has shown flashes of potential this season, but he doesn't produce consistent numbers on a sluggish Rams offense. Think of him as a No. 4 Fantasy option in Week 17 at Atlanta.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery made a team-high six receptions for 61 yards Week 15 against the Seahawks. He also ran the ball twice for 11 yards.
Analysis: Avery entered the game with a total of 32 yards receiving over his last three. The rookie has shown flashes of greatness at times, but he clearly doesn't perform consistently enough for Fantasy purposes. Think of him as a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 16 against the 49ers, against whom he had nine catches for 93 yards in Week 11.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery had two catches against the Cardinals in Week 14 for a total of 18 yards.
Analysis: This is the third straight game that Avery has done what amounts to nothing for Fantasy owners. He drew the ire of QB Marc Bulger when he failed to even attempt to catch a pass thrown right at him. He is not recommended for Fantasy Week 15 against Seattle.
News: The Rams listed WR Donnie Avery as active for Week 14 at Arizona. Avery practiced in full on Thursday and Friday with a hip injury.
Analysis: Avery has only one catch in his past two games, so his production has really tailed off. Avery is not recommended for Week 14.
News: Ranms WR Donnie Avery (hip) practiced in full on Thursday and Friday after going through limited reps Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 14 at Arizona. Avery had no catches Week 13 against the Dolphins.
Analysis: In his last two games, Avery has only one catch. In fact, he hasn't done much in his past five outings. Avery is not a recommended Fantasy WR for Week 14.
News: Ranms WR Donnie Avery (hip) returned to a full practice Thursday after going through limited reps Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 14 at Arizona. Avery had no catches Week 13 against the Dolphins.
Analysis: Avery has just one catch in his last two games and has been pretty pathetic over his last five outings. He has no touchdowns in that span and just one game with more than 30 yards. Avery is not a recommended Fantasy WR heading into Week 14.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery was limited in practice on Wednesday. The Rams are at Arizona for Week 14 on Sunday.
Analysis: Avery is mostly hit or miss, but he usually misses. Even when he hits, it's not too big of a deal. Consider him a low-end flex option for Week 14 at Arizona.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery didn't make a catch in a Week 13 loss to Miami, but did manage one two-yard carry.
Analysis: Avery has a couple of nice outings over the last six weeks, but the rest of his games have been very poor. Consider him nothing more than a low-end 'flex' option for Week 14 at Arizona.
News: St. Louis WR Donnie Avery caught one pass for 14 yards in Week 12's loss to the Bears. He added one rush for negative yardage.
Analysis: Avery was coming off Week 11's nine catch, 93-yard performance against the 49ers but has been pretty useless otherwise in Fantasy since catching six passes for 163 yards against New England five weeks ago. The Rams are terrible and Marc Bulger could be hurt now. He clearly has a high ceiling, and the Rams seemingly want to make him their go-to guy. Still, on such a poor passing offense, he looks like no better than a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 13 against the Dolphins.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery made a career-high nine receptions for 93 yards Week 11 at San Francisco. He entered with a combined five catches for 55 yards over his previous two games.
Analysis: Avery had done nothing Fantasy-relevant since his breakout 163-yard game in Week 8. He clearly has a high ceiling, and the Rams seemingly want to make him their go-to guy. Still, on such a poor passing offense, he looks like no better than a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 12 against the Bears.
News: St. Louis WR Donnie Avery was limited to two catches for 29 yards in Week 10's loss to the Jets. Avery also rushed once for 13 yards.
Analysis: In the two games following Avery's six catch, 163-yard performance, he's mustered just five catches for 55 yards and no scores. Now with a controversy brewing between Marc Bulger and Trent Green it is apparent that Avery is not going to be a consistent option in Fantasy. He's still worth starting in Week 11 at San Francisco as a low-end No. 2 WR option, however.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery saw his nice three-week spell come to an end in Week 9 as he was held to just 26 yards on three catches in a loss to the Cardinals.
Analysis: Avery's play in October was superb, but Marc Bulger didn't look his way very often in Week 9. Avery will have his down weeks now and again, but he's still worth starting in most formats as a No. 2 Fantasy WR in Week 10 at the Jets.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery caught six passes for 163 yards and a touchdown in a Week 8 loss to the Patriots. Avery also ran once for minus-one yards.
Analysis: Avery has emerged as a go-to receiver for the Rams recently, and now has a touchdown in two straight contests. He is starting to overshadow the brutal Torry Holt and is making a case to be starting as a No. 3 WR in deeper leagues heading into Week 9 vs. Arizona.
News: In his team's 34-14 win vs. Dallas in Week 7, St. Louis rookie WR Donnie Avery began with a bang thanks to a 42-yard bomb he caught for a touchdown, then followed that up with four more catches to total 65 yards. He had a second touchdown called back to due an offensive penalty.
Analysis: Avery has a shot to really help this offense as a second receiver. There's no denying his deep speed and good hands -- it's all about whether or not he gets lots of looks. That's likely to happen since he's posted 12 catches in his last three games. Figure Avery to be a low-end No. 3/top-end No. 4 Fantasy WR in Week 8 when the Rams play at the Patriots.
News: St. Louis defeated the Redskins in Week 6 for their first win and receiver Donnie Avery played a major part in the win. QB Marc Bulger hit Avery down the right sideline for a 43-yard gain on third-and-13 to move into field goal territory at the end of the game that set up the winning field goal. Avery caught four passes for 73 yards to lead the Rams.
Analysis: Avery had just six catches for 46 yards coming into Week 6's game. He may see a lot more balls come his way with Bulger back under center and Jim Haslett running the team. That said, he's not worth owning in Fantasy play just yet. The Rams play the Cowboys in Week 7 and you should keep Avery on the waiver wire.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery scored on a 37-yard designed run in Week 4 against Buffalo. He also caught three passes for 22 yards.
Analysis: The Rams took advantage of Avery's speed on a designed toss to him, but other than that did not make a big impact on the game. He has some potential down the road as a big play receiver, but is not part of a very consistent offensive scheme at the moment. The Rams will be on a bye in Week 5 and Avery is not yet a recommended starter for Fantasy.
News: Rams rookie WR Donnie Avery had three catches for 24 yards in a Week 3 loss to the Seahawks. The catches were the first of his NFL career.
Analysis: Avery could see some touches while Drew Bennett is out, but he's not worth owning in anything but rookie-only Fantasy leagues right now. The Rams host the Bills in Week 4.
News: The following Rams did not record any offensive statistics in Week 2 against the Giants: QB Trent Green, TE Anthony Becht, WR Keenan Burton, WR Donnie Avery, RB Travis Minor, RB Dan Kreider and TE Joe Klopfenstein.
Analysis: None of the players on this list are going to be in line for considerable playing time anytime soon. Leave them on the waiver wire in all Fantasy leagues until further notice. They've got some depth chart climbing to do.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery is listed as probable for Week 2 vs. the N.Y. Giants after being limited in practice Wednesday and Thursday but working out in full on Friday. Avery has been battling a sprained knee.
Analysis: Avery could help a decimated receiving corps that just lost starter Drew Bennett. Don't plan on using Avery this week, but he could be worth adding off the waiver wire if he plays well against the Giants. He has excellent speed.
News: Rams coach Scott Linehan said Friday rookie WR Donnie Avery, who was inactive for Week 1 at the Eagles with a knee injury, could make his return in Week 2 against the Giants. "I think it looks good," Linehan said. "I think he had two real good days and I thought Wednesday wasn't bad. We'll make that decision on Sunday."
Analysis: Avery could help a decimated receiving corps that just lost starter Drew Bennett. Don't plan on using Avery this week, but he could be worth adding off the waiver wire if he plays well against the Giants.
News: The Rams listed the following players as inactive for Week 1: QB Brock Berlin (third QB), WR Donnie Avery, FB Brian Leonard, DB Brannon Condren, LB David Vobora, G Roy Schuening, T John Greco and DE Eric Moore.
Analysis: None of the players on this list are going to be in line for considerable playing time anytime soon. Leave them on the waiver wire in all Fantasy leagues until further notice. They've got some depth chart climbing to do.
News: Rams rookie WR Donnie Avery has been ruled out for Week 1 at Philadelphia. Avery sprained his knee in the club's final preseason game and hasn't practiced all week.
Analysis: Avery wasn't expected to be useful in Week 1 Fantasy play to begin with, but his injury could keep him off rosters for a few more weeks. Keep him reserved, or cut him for a receiver who will actually play on Sunday.
News: Rams rookie WR Donnie Avery (knee) did not participate in practice Wednesday. He is dealing with a sprained right knee, which he hurt in the final preseason game.
Analysis: Avery could miss the season opener at the Eagles, but keep an eye on his status. Even if he's healthy, keep him reserved for Week 1.
News: Rams rookie WR Donnie Avery, who sprained his right knee Thursday night in the preseason finale at Kansas City, was limited to light work and running Monday, reports the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Analysis: Avery will likely be fine for the season opener against the Eagles, but don't plan on using him in your Fantasy leagues this week. Your best bet is to keep him reserved and hope he can make an impact as the season goes on.
News: Rams rookie WR Donnie Avery caught five passes for 65 yards to lead the Rams in their third preseason game vs. Baltimore on Saturday. It was his first action of the preseason due to a pelvis injury that sidelined him.
Analysis: What's exciting about Avery is that the Rams targeted him in the 2008 NFL Draft (he was the first receiver taken) and have plans to be successful with him. Time will tell if the rookie can develop into a quality Fantasy option, but he's worth watching early on this season. Avery is a pure speedster, lacking in ideal height for a wideout. Expect to see him on special teams as well. He's only worth a pick in the deepest of seasonal Fantasy Football leagues as a flier; he's worth a middle-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
News:Rams coach Scott Linehan is eager to see rookie WR Donnie Avery make his preseason debut Saturday at Baltimore. Avery has been out with a pelvis injury. "Yeah, this will be big for him," Linehan said. "He hasn't been able to play and he could have played probably some the other night. We got him prepared that way and decided not to play him just so that he wouldn't have a set back. I'd like to see him play probably the most of any receiver this week for sure." Linehan has been impressed with Avery in his comeback. "He's been good," Linehan said. "I don't think he could help but be a little behind with missing practice, but he's got a great work ethic and he's staying in it mentally very good. He's always one of the first guys at the meeting and last one to leave and works at his game and that will benefit him. We've got to accelerate his development here in these next two preseason games."
Analysis: Avery has a chance to make an impact this year if he can get on the field. The Rams need help at receiver, and they drafted Avery as the first receiver in the draft for a reason. Keep an eye on his performance if he plays and see how he does, but for now consider him a low-end Fantasy option in seasonal leagues and a third-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: St. Louis receiver Donnie Avery (pelvis) and tight end Anthony Becht (hamstring), both questionable for Saturday's preseason game against the Chargers, sat out the game with injuries.
Analysis: Avery is the Rams' WR threat of the future and should be considered a low-end Fantasy option. He's also a decent mid-round option in rookie drafts. This injury shouldn't keep him out for long, apparently, so it doesn't really mess with his Fantasy value once the season begins. Becht is a good blocking tight end but not a huge stat contributor. Leave him out of draft plans in 2008.
News: St. Louis WR Donnie Avery was held out of Saturday's preseason game against the Titans.
Analysis: Avery is the Rams' WR threat of the future and should be considered a low-end Fantasy option. He's also a decent mid-round option in rookie drafts. This injury shouldn't keep him out for long, apparently, so it doesn't really mess with his Fantasy value once the season begins.
News: Rookie wide receiver Donnie Avery, the team's second-round pick, cracked a bone in his pelvis. Coach Scott Linehan said it was a very small crack and believed he'd be sidelined no longer than a week or two, with rest prescribed. "It's an unusual injury, but not a serious injury," Linehan said. "I think it's more of a pain tolerance type thing."
Analysis: Avery is the Rams' WR threat of the future and should be considered a low-end Fantasy option. He's also a decent mid-round option in rookie drafts. This injury shouldn't keep him out for long, apparently, so it doesn't really mess with his Fantasy value once the season begins.
News: Second-round pick Donnie Avery signed with the St. Louis Rams on Saturday. The wide receiver was expected on the field for the day's second practice. Avery, from Houston, was the first wide receiver taken in the draft, and the Rams believed that fact contributed to the brief holdout. He was the last of the Rams' draft picks to sign, with first-rounder Chris Long agreeing to terms a week ago. Coach Scott Linehan said the contract was completed during the morning workout. Avery was nearby during negotiations, allowing him to make it to camp quickly. "He'll be here this afternoon, catching up," Linehan said. "Maybe get him a few extra reps, so it's good to get that one out of the way."
Analysis: Common perception has Avery taking over the gaping hole in the receiving corps left by Isaac Bruce's departure. Taking a little longer to sign his contract won't help him make the starting lineup quicker, that's for sure. Still, Avery is the Rams' WR threat of the future and should be considered a low-end Fantasy option. He's also a decent mid-round option in rookie drafts.
News: After spending the 33rd overall selection on WR Donnie Avery, the Rams are counting on getting his best. That starts with his running ability: He can zip 40 yards in 4.29 seconds, giving the Rams a much-needed downfield threat. The added speed makes "a big difference," QB Marc Bulger said in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. "We can put him inside against some nickel defensive backs or some linebackers. But at the same time, he's going to have to ... do some other things, because if they know every time he comes in that we're going deep, they have answers for that." The 5-foot-11, 190-pound Avery proved at the University of Houston that he offers more than a sprinter's package, especially during a senior season in which he piled up 91 catches, a Conference USA-record 1,456 yards and seven touchdowns.
Analysis: Avery has to deal with the perception by some that he was chosen to be Isaac Bruce's replacement. It doesn't help that the last time the Rams had the 33rd selection in the draft was 1994, when they took Bruce out of Memphis State. The popular Bruce, 35, was released Feb. 28 after 14 seasons with the team. He signed with rival San Francisco two days later, taking with him 942 receptions and 14,109 yards. He ranks among the top six in NFL history in both categories. Don't expect Avery to replace Bruce right away. But he was drafted to be the wide receiver of the future for the Rams. Consider Avery a low-end Fantasy option in seasonal leagues and a decent mid-round pick in rookie drafts in 2008.
News: The Rams took the first wide receiver in the 2008 NFL Draft, and it was a shocker -- Donnie Avery of Houston. Avery admitted that he was also surprised, but knows he can contribute right away. "I'm that type of player who hates to sit on the sidelines," he said. "If I'm not playing receiver, I want to be on every special team. I want to contribute as much as possible. I'm an active type of guy, physical and energetic. I like to get the crowd hyped. I want to play all the time."
Analysis: Avery is a pure speedster, lacking in ideal height for a wideout. Frankly, we were surprised with the pick but have no problems trusting in Rams coach Scott Linehan and offensive coordinator Al Saunders. They must have plans for this kid. Expect to see him on special teams first as well as a situational wideout. He's only worth a pick in the deepest of seasonal Fantasy Football leagues as a flier; he's worth a middle- to late-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
