News: After a brief competition in practice, Oakland coach Dennis Allen named Terrelle Pryor the starting quarterback for Week 17 at San Diego. Pryor, who earned the nod over veteran quarterback Matt Leinart, will make his first career NFL start after Carson Palmer was ruled out earlier this week. "He'll start the game, he'll play in the game and we'll see how the game goes," Allen said about Pryor. "He gives us a unique element of athleticism at the quarterback position."
Analysis: Leinart was hoping to earn anther opportunity in order to silence his critics after starting just two games since 2007. He took over for Palmer last Sunday and completed 16 of his 32 passes for 115 yards with one interception. "I still feel I have a lot to prove at this point of my career," Leinart told reporters Thursday. "No matter what the naysayers say, I do feel like I still can play." If Pryor struggles against the Chargers, Leinart could receive some snaps, but he is hardly viewed as a reliable Fantasy option for Week 17.
News: With quarterback Carson Palmer out for the remainder of the season because of injuries, Oakland coach Dennis Allen said Monday he will decide between Matt Leinart and Terrelle Pryor as the starter for Week 17 at San Diego. Both players appeared in Sunday's loss at Carolina after Palmer left in the first quarter. Leinart was the first player off the bench and attempted 32 passes, while Pryor completed his lone attempt of the game. The Chargers pose a tough matchup for either player as they are permitting an average of 17.8 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks.
Analysis: Leinart and Pryor have combined for a total of 35 passing attempts this season as the Raiders have stayed committed to Palmer despite his inconsistency. The 29-year-old Leinart has not started a game since the 2009 season with Arizona and owns a career 57.1 completion percentage. Long considered a bust upon entering the league in 2006, he has amassed a total of 21 interceptions to just 15 touchdown passes in his career. San Diego is also coming off a Week 16 performance in which it recorded 11 sacks on Jets quarterback Greg McElroy, another inexperienced signal-caller. Fantasy owners should look to other options over the Raiders' candidates for Week 17.
News: Raiders backup quarterback Matt Leinart was pressed into extensive duty for the first time all season in Week 16 against the Panthers, after Carson Palmer was forced to leave the game with a rib injury. Leinart attempted 32 passes in the game, completing exactly half of them, for just 115 yards. He failed to record a touchdown in the game, and was intercepted once by Luke Kuechly. Leinart averaged just 3.6 yards per attempt, while finishing with a 45.7 passing rating, in a 17-6 loss.
Analysis: Given Leinart’s massively disappointing NFL career, it was no surprise to see him fall on his face in relief of Palmer. What will be interesting to see is whether the Raiders turn to him next week if Palmer cannot play, or whether they go with Terrelle Pryor, seven years his junior. Leinart clearly does not have a future in the NFL at this point, but the Raiders may not be comfortable relying on Pryor, who has attempted just two passes in his NFL career. Even if Leinart gets the start, he would not be worth picking up in any Fantasy formats for Week 17 at San Diego.
News: Raiders quarterback Matt Leinart played the final two series of Sunday's 55-20 loss to the Ravens. He was 0-for-1.
Analysis: If anything happens to Carson Palmer, Leinart may have a little bit of value in two-quarterback leagues because Oakland's offense is so pass-heavy. But, for now, Leinart has no Fantasy value and is best left to the waiver wire.
News: Raiders coach Dennis Allen told reporters Wednesday quarterback Matt Leinart, who has a lacerated right index finger, has been cleared to play Saturday against the Lions. However, he might sit out because handoffs are still an issue.
Analysis: Leinart is expected to open the year as a backup quarterback to Carson Palmer. However, as long as Palmer is healthy, then Leinart has no Fantasy appeal. It's safe to let him go undrafted in most formats.
News: Raiders quarterback Matt Leinart left Friday's contest against the Cardinals with a finger injury on his non-throwing hand. Leinart sustained the injury sometime in the second half of the 31-27 defeat and was unable to return. He finished 5 for 8 for 66 yards prior to leaving the contest. "I was doing well until, unfortunately, what happened, but I'll be O.K.," said Leinart.
Analysis: Leinart's injury is not being considered serious at this point, albeit he did receive a few stitches on his right finger. The good news is that is his non-throwing hand so he should be fine moving forward. However, unless there is an injury to Carson Palmer, Leinart isn't going to have much Fantasy value entering the season.
News: Quarterback Matt Leinart will sign with the Raiders Tuesday, according to the team. He's expected to back up Carson Palmer while being reunited with Greg Knapp, his former offensive coordinator from Houston.
Analysis: In six seasons, Leinart made 18 starts, threw for 3,950 yards and recorded 15 touchdowns and 20 interceptions. Until he earns a starting role and proves that he's better than he's ever been, Fantasy owners shouldn't consider him.
News: Houston shifted QB Matt Leinart (shoulder) to season-ending injured reserve on Tuesday. The move created a roster spot for the Texans to add veteran QB Jake Delhomme. Leinart, who was filling in for injured QB Matt Schaub, suffered a fractured collarbone during his first start against Jacksonville in Week 12. He will have surgery next week.
Analysis: Leinart certainly didn't last long as Houston's starting quarterback and will be replaced by T.J. Yates under center. He completed 10 of his 13 passes for only 57 yards and a touchdown before the injury. The former first-round draft pick has totaled just four touchdown passes since his rookie season. Fantasy owners should leave him on waivers in all formats for the rest of the season.
News: Texans coach Gary Kubiak said Monday that QB Matt Leinart suffered a fractured collarbone Week 12 at Jacksonville and will need surgery in the next week. Kubiak added that the team will bring in another QB behind T.J. Yates and Kellen Clemens, and he is discussing options with GM Rick Smith. Yates appears to be the likely candidate to start Week 13 vs. Atlanta. "I think a lot of Yates," Kubiak said. "Has a tall task in front of him, but we have a good football team that will rally around him."
Analysis: It's probably only a matter of time before Leinart goes on season-ending IR. It's a shame too since this was a perfect opportunity for him taking over for the injured Matt Schaub, who is out for the season with a foot injury. Feel free to dump Leinart back onto Fantasy waivers.
News: NFL Network reports that Texans QB Matt Leinart broke his left collarbone Sunday at Jacksonville in Week 12. Leinart, who was injured by Jaguars DL Jeremy Mincey in the second quarter, did not confirm the report, but he does not expect to play again this year. "I think there's probably a pretty strong possibility I won't be coming back this season," Leinart said after the game with his arm in a sling. Leinart, who was starting for the injured Matt Schaub (foot), was replaced by T.J. Yates. Leinart was 10 of 13 passing for 57 yards and a touchdown to Joel Dreessen before leaving.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Leinart, but don't expect him to play in Week 13 against the Falcons. When healthy, Leinart is a No. 2 Fantasy QB in the majority of leagues, but his season is now likely over.
News: Texans QB Matt Leinart, who injured his left shoulder in the second quarter of Sunday's game at Jacksonville in Week 12, will not return for the second half. Leinart, who was starting for the injured Matt Schaub (foot), was replaced by T.J. Yates. Leinart was 10 of 13 passing for 57 yards and a touchdown to Joel Dreessen before leaving.
Analysis: We should know more about Leinart's status prior to Week 13 vs. Atlanta. If Leinart is able to play against the Falcons he would be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB in the majority of leagues.
News: Texans QB Matt Leinart, who was starting Sunday at Jacksonville in Week 12 with Matt Schaub (foot) out, left the game just before halftime after hurting his left shoulder. He walked off on his own after being hit by Jacksonville DL Jeremy Mincey. Leinart was replaced by T.J. Yates, and his return is questionable.
Analysis: We hope Leinart can return because he was playing well before leaving. He started the game 10 of 13 passing for 57 yards and a touchdown to Joel Dreessen. When healthy, Leinart is a No. 2 Fantasy QB for the rest of the year.
News: Texans QB Matt Leinart is set to make his first start in 2011 on Sunday at Jacksonville in Week 12 with Matt Schaub (foot) out. He will face a Jaguars defense that has allowed 13 total touchdowns to opposing quarterbacks with only four getting multiple touchdowns in one game. One of those quarterbacks was Schaub, who had 225 passing yards and one touchdown and a rushing touchdown against Jacksonville in Week 8. Leinart gets the benefit of having Andre Johnson (hamstring) back for this game.
Analysis: We expect Leinart to do OK in this game with the Jaguars. He is not a No. 1 Fantasy QB in the majority of leagues, but he can get the ball to his playmakers in Johnson, Owen Daniels and Arian Foster enough to have decent stats. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB in this matchup with upside.
News: Texans coach Gary Kubiak delivered some disappointing news Monday when he revealed that QB Matt Schaub suffered a significant foot injury Week 10 at Tampa Bay and Matt Leinart will be the starter in Week 12 at Jacksonville following the team's bye. He could also be the team's starting quarterback for good as ESPN reported Schaub is expected to miss the remainder of the season. "That's why he's here," Kubiak said of Leinart. "He liked his opportunity here. He's played in big football games in this league. The key is the whole football team rallying around him. Matt doesn't have to win a game. The team has to win a game."
Analysis: The good news for Leinart is that Andre Johnson is on track to return to the lineup after the bye. However, Leinart played with the likes of Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin during his tenure in Arizona, and those two combined couldn't make Leinart a respectable NFL QB. Leinart is a low-end Fantasy option as he certainly has the weapons to revive his career with the Texans.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports Texans coach Gary Kubiak is pleased with the work of QB Matt Leinart since he was promoted to the No. 2 QB behind starter Matt Schaub. "He's really impressed me the last couple days," Kubiak said. "There's no panic in Matt. That's a big challenge when you're taking the second offense against the first defense. Matt just plays the game. He throws it where he's supposed to throw it. He's got a lot of confidence right now. I'm excited for him. I think his career's going to take off again, and I'm excited for him."
Analysis: While this is an encouraging report from Kubiak, the fact of the matter remains is Leinart is still a backup QB. It's going to take an injury to Schaub for Leinart to get reps during the season in a game. Leinart is at best a handcuff Fantasy option for Schaub owners.
News: Despite an offer to compete for a starting job with the Seahawks, QB Matt Leinart chose to return to the Texans. "I really grew as a quarterback and felt like I can get so much better as a quarterback," he said. "Kubes (coach Gary Kubiak) played a big part in that."
Analysis: Leinart might be developing as a QB, but Fantasy owners won't see it unless something happens to starter Matt Schaub. As long as Schaub is healthy, ignore Leinart in all leagues in 2011.
News: The Texans have agreed to terms with backup QB Matt Leinart. The Seahawks had reportedly signed him on Tuesday, but Leinart dispelled the rumors. ESPN reports that Leinart's deal is for $5.5 million over two years.
Analysis: Leinart is expected to compete for the No. 2 job in Houston behind starter Matt Schaub. He has no Fantasy value as long as Schaub is healthy, and he is not worth drafting in the majority of leagues.
News: ESPN.com reports the Seahawks have agreed to a contract with Matt Leinart, who would be reunited with former college coach Pete Carroll. However, Leinart posted late Tuesday night on his Twitter account that he has no deal in place. "Just wanted to say I have not signed with Seattle amongst all the speculation," Leinart posted. "I am still weighing the options. Keep you posted."
Analysis: Leinart's troubled NFL career has been well-documented. But perhaps reuniting with Carroll could be what he needs to get his career going. If Leinart does eventually sign on with Seattle, he is going to battle with Tarvaris Jackson and Charlie Whitehurst, if the team doesn't re-sign Matt Hasselbeck or bring in another free-agent QB. But even if Leinart somehow wins the starting QB job, he will still be nothing more than a late-round Fantasy flier. For now, take a wait-and-see approach.
News:Matt Leinart will be a free agent when the NFL offseason starts, but the National Football Post reports that he won't be one for long. According to the report, it would be considered an "upset" if Leinart did not reunite with head coach Pete Carroll in Seattle. Carroll was Leinart's coach in college and it's believed Carroll still thinks highly of Leinart's skills.
Analysis: Leinart has said on multiple occasions this offseason that he'd like to be a starter in the NFL again after several tumultuous years in Arizona and a season riding the Texans' bench. In Seattle, he'd conceivably have a shot at starting if Matt Hasselbeck ends up leaving. He still wouldn't warrant Fantasy consideration outside of two-QB leagues if he did, though.
News:Matt Leinart told the Daily Trojan that he still intends to start in the NFL someday. Leinart spent 2010 in Houston as the Texans' No. 3 QB after struggling to stay in the running to start with the Cardinals. "I am not going to give up," Leinart said of being a first-string quarterback. "I am not going to say it has been unfair, but I am just hoping for the opportunity to come."
Analysis: Leinart is expected to end up somewhere this offseason, though chances are he won't be much of a candidate to start. Until he earns a starting role and proves that he's better than he's ever been, Fantasy owners shouldn't consider him.
News: QB Matt Leinart indicated that it is unlikely that he will return to the Texans next season. “I want to be a starter in the league. I feel like I’ve paid my dues,” Leinart said. “I just want the chance to compete and play.” Texans coach Gary Kubiak compared the difficulties Leinart has faced playing behind Kurt Warner and Matt Schaub to the challenges faced by Brian Griese when he replaced John Elway. “I went through this situation before,” Kubiak said. “I’m proud of (Matt). He’s got a bright future.”
Analysis: Leinart might sound optimistic about starting in the NFL, but it's not like he hasn't gotten a fair shake before. In fact, he was in a good situation in Arizona and had talented receivers, but he just couldn't get the job done. Some team is likely going to take a chance on Leinart in training camp to see if he has learned from his mistakes. But this is clearly a situation Fantasy owners need to follow closely before giving Leinart any consideration in drafts next season. Right now, he is a long shot to be a starter in the NFL, but crazier things have happened.
News: Though Texans QB Matt Leinart still hasn’t moved ahead of backup QB Dan Orlovsky on the depth chart, coach Gary Kubiak said he’s been extremely impressed with Leinart's play in practice. “For what he’s been through, I’m very impressed with him mentally,” Kubiak said. In Week 14, the team hosts the Ravens on Monday night.
Analysis: The former first-round draft pick of the Cardinals has been quiet and accepted his role in Houston after being very vocal about his disappointment in Arizona at the tail-end of the preseason. He should continue to be ignored in Fantasy play until he has a shot at some playing time on Sundays.
News: In the absence of Texans QB Matt Schaub, QB Dan Orlovsky received the majority of snaps with the first team in Wednesday's practice, but third-string QB Matt Leinart said he's prepared to play in the Week 11 game against the Jets if needed. "Whether you're the first, second or third string, you got to be ready."
Analysis: The former first-round draft pick of the Cardinals has been quiet and accepted his role in Houston after being very vocal about his disappointment in Arizona at the tail-end of the preseason. If he does play against the disruptive Jets defense, he will not be a viable Fantasy option.
News: Texans coach Gary Kubiak has been pleased with backup QB Matt Leinart’s development over the past couple weeks. “He could go in and (run) 65-70% of our offense right now,” Kubiak said. “I think we could help him become a better player.”
Analysis: Leinart has yet to get a snap this season after being released by Arizona just a week before the season started. Along with Dan Orlovsky, Leinart will continue to back up Matt Schaub and be inactive more often than not. Continue to ignore him in Fantasy play for the time being.
News: Quarterback Matt Leinart has officially joined the Houston Texans. The former Heisman Trophy signed a one-year contract Tuesday. He was cut by the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday and agreed to terms with the Texans earlier this week. The 27-year-old Leinart will be the No. 3 quarterback on the Texans behind Matt Schaub and Dan Orlovsky.
Analysis: Houston had the NFL's top passing offense last season (291 yards per game) and Schaub led the league with 4,770 yards passing. The depth chart behind Schaub became an issue in Houston's last preseason game, when Orlovsky threw two interceptions. Third-stringer John David Booty, who succeeded Leinart as Southern Cal's starter in 2006, threw a pair of touchdown passes in the game. The Texans cut Booty on Saturday, and joined a group of teams reportedly interested in Leinart. Since Leinart will start the season as a reserve QB, then he isn't worth owning in Fantasy.
News:Matt Leinart was signed by the Texans on Monday, reports the Houston Chronicle. He's expected to begin the season as their No. 3/emergency QB behind starter Matt Schaub and backup Dan Orlovsky. Leinart was competing for the starting job in Arizona this summer and was released after he lost out to Derek Anderson.
Analysis: Leinart is not expected to play anytime soon, so keep him off of Fantasy rosters.
News: The Houston Texans have emerged as a leader for the services of free-agent quarterback Matt Leinart. Leinart, released by the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday, would join Matt Schaub and Dan Orlovsky on the roster, should the Texans pick him up. The Houston Chronicle reports that Houston is among the leaders for Leinart, the No. 10 overall pick in the NFL Draft who failed to live up to expectations in Arizona. The Chronicle reported that the Texans didn't re-sign quarterback John David Booty to the regular roster or sign him to the practice squad Sunday. But they have a roster spot open and one spot available on the practice squad.
Analysis: Leinart, who was expected to earn the starting nod heading into training camp, was beaten out by former Browns quarterback Derek Anderson. The Cardinals also decided to keep rookies Max Hall and John Skelton on the roster ahead of Leinart. Hall, a former BYU standout, will be Anderson's backup. The Seattle Seahawks, coached by Leinart's former college USC mentor, Pete Carroll, has surfaced in reports, but Clark Judge of CBSSports.com reports that the Seahawks are not a possibility for the former Heisman Trophy winner. According to Internet reports, other clubs also interested in Leinart are Oakland, Cincinnati and Jacksonville. Wherever Leinart lands, it does appear he will start out as a backup, so there is no need to bother with him in Fantasy just yet.
News: The report that the Seahawks are not interested in QB Matt Leinart doesn't bode well for the former USC standout. If Pete Carroll, who knows Leinart's strengths and weaknesses as well as anyone in the NFL, isn't interested, that will be a red flag for other teams.
Analysis: There is a lesson to be learned here but we doubt Leinart will get the message. All those years of being the poster boy in Southern California and now look what he's got to show for it. Basically, he is having a hard time even finding a backup gig at the moment. The Cardinals didn't want him and he's unlikely to start anywhere he goes. Keep an eye on where Leinart ends up, but he has minimal Fantasy value and should not be used in the majority of leagues in 2010.
News: The Cardinals tried for more than a week to trade QB Matt Leinart but apparently received little interest, potentially due to his $2.485 million base salary, so they released him Saturday morning. He will now look to sign with a new team, potentially Seattle where he can reunite with college coach Pete Carroll.
Analysis: Leinart's NFL career has been a failure, and he couldn't win the starting job twice with the Cardinals. The first time he was beat out by future Hall of Famer Kurt Warner, and now he couldn't hold onto the job in a battle with journeyman Derek Anderson. Keep an eye on where Leinart ends up, but he has minimal Fantasy value and should not be used in the majority of leagues in 2010.
News: The Cardinals do not appear inclined to release QB Matt Leinart and appear ready to keep him on the 53-man roster while still exploring trade scenarios. Coach Ken Whisenhunt will sit down with Leinart and find out if he's comfortable in a backup role before determining Leinart's future: "It's not as much about his ability to play football as it is about his fit with this team," Whisenhunt said. The Cardinals are expected to open the season with Derek Anderson at quarterback.
Analysis: It's not that Leinart wasn't efficient in the preseason, completing 78.6 percent of his passes, but Arizona didn't feel he took enough shots down field and is ready to replace Kurt Warner at QB. If Leinart is in a backup role, as expected, to begin the season, then he isn't going to have much Fantasy appeal. Look to better Fantasy reserve QBs on Draft Day.
News: While rumors swirl that the Arizona Cardinals have been attempting to attract a trade partner for quarterback Matt Leinart, league sources told The Sports Xchange on Thursday that the four-year veteran and his representatives have been granted permission to seek potential suitors for a deal. Leinart played two series in Thursday's preseason finale, going 3 of 5 for 14 yards. With the retirement of Warner this spring, Leinart was favored to win the starting spot. But his play has been spotty in preseason, and five-year veteran Derek Anderson, added in the offseason after the former Cleveland starter was released by the Browns is expected to be the starter to begin the year.
Analysis: The 10th overall choice in the 2006 draft, Leinart started 11 games at a rookie. But the former Southern Cal star lost the starting job to Kurt Warner the following year, and has only six starts since. Leinart carries with him a significant base salary this season, which could make him unattractive to many teams. Regardless of where he ends up, the sure thing is that he won't be a starter for anybody come Week 1 and likely won't be in anybody's plans to start this year barring an injury. He shouldn't be owned in any leagues.
News: As it becomes increasingly clear that the Cardinals will go with Derek Anderson at quarterback, ESPN reports that the Giants, Bills and Raiders are showing interest in Matt Leinart, the guy who lost the Cards' starting job. The Bills and Raiders are denying any interest. Leinart would be a backup with any of those teams. "The Raiders have never discussed trading for Leinart," the team said in a statement. "The Raiders are very happy about their quarterback situation."
Analysis: Leinart went from a trendy sleeper quarterback in June to a late-round flier in July to a guy to steer clear of completely in August. Changing teams would only crush his Fantasy value further. He shouldn't be owned in any leagues.
News: FOX Sports is reporting the Cardinals have been contacting teams on Tuesday trying to trade QB Matt Leinart, who is losing a battle for the starting QB job to Derek Anderson. It is unknown, however, what Arizona wants in exchange for Leinart.
Analysis: Leinart has been efficient, yet unspectacular in the preseason. For a player that is completing 82.6 percent of his passes in the preseason, it's a little hard to imagine why Arizona wants to trade Leinart. But it just doesn't seem like coach Ken Wishenhunt believes Arizona can win with Leinart under center. Other rumors have been Arizona wanting to flat out cut Leinart. This is a situation that is still developing, but right now, Leinart is a risky Fantasy option. Look to draft other QBs as a reserve option.
News: On the same day Matt Leinart had some choice words about the direction of the Cardinals' quarterback position, CBSSports.com Senior NFL Writer Clark Judge has learned that Leinart's spot on the team's roster is not safe. Citing team sources, Judge writes that Leinart has lost the confidence of the locker room and therefore is a likely goner. Earlier Monday, Leinart sounded off on what appears to be the losing end of his battle for the QB job with Derek Anderson. In an interview with the Arizona Republic Monday, Leinart offered criticism of his status and claims the decision to bench him goes "beyond the football field." Anderson has played slightly better than Leinart through three weeks of the preseason. "I feel like I've outplayed the competition, training camp, preseason," Leinart said. "I think my plays speaks about that. ... The philosophy is you want the best 11 guys to play. I feel like I've proved that with my performance. I don't really know what else I could possibly do, so it probably goes beyond football. For me, I just really want an explanation and I haven't been given one."
Analysis: Against the Bears last weekend, Leinart completed 9 of 10 passes for 84 yards, including a touchdown to Steve Breaston. Anderson went 7 of 12 passing for 94 yards and a score of his own. Neither guy is any better than a No. 2 Fantasy quarterback to start the season, but at this point we have to figure Anderson is the better option of the two since he's played slightly better and it sounds like Leinart's been given bad news. We'll continue to monitor the situation and deliver the latest news when we get it, but Leinart shouldn't be drafted in any leagues given this news.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart completed 9 of 10 passes for 84 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's preseason win over Chicago. Leinart, who relieved Derek Anderson with just over two minutes left in the first half, was sacked twice. "I feel like I've done everything I can as a quarterback to get to this point," Leinart said. "I've played well in three games, and I'm continuing to work hard to get better, to continue to lead this team, and that's all I can do. I've just got to let my play speak for itself."
Analysis: This was definitely an upgrade for Leinart on his first couple of exhibition performances, but his grip on the starting job might be tenuous at best after Anderson played reasonably well himself on Saturday. Right now, Leinart is a low-end Fantasy flier at best with his situation up in the air.
News: The Cardinals' quarterback situation is up in the air after coach Ken Whisenhunt decided to shake up a struggling offense and start Derek Anderson at quarterback over Matt Leinart in the third preseason game at Chicago on Saturday. Unsure of underlying issues between him and Whisenhunt, Leinart told the Arizona Republic that he feels he's done everything asked of him while he tries to be "that guy" for the Cardinals. He said his performances on the field have been "efficient." "I've been accurate. I haven't turned the ball over," he told the newspaper. "I don't know how we judge performance when you have 13 pass attempts to the other guy's 40. I'm not going to sit here and complain and point the finger. I have to get better and I'm going to get better."
Analysis: Leinart's failure to impress early this season might cost him the job permanently. For now, nothing is certain as the Cardinals have had moments of indecision with their passers before. In 2007 they used Leinart and Kurt Warner in games early on, and that's something they might do again with Leinart and Anderson. Bottom line? Neither guy is anything more than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB in Fantasy play. We'll keep you posted on news surrounding the Cardinals' quarterback situation, though it will ultimately impact the Cards' receivers than the passers in Fantasy.
News: Cardinals QB Derek Anderson will start Saturday's preseason game against the Bears, meaning Matt Leinart's job as the starting QB in Arizona could be in jeopardy. "Well, I don't think we've played really well enough offensively to make any determination other than we need to get better," Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt said Thursday. "We're looking at different combinations of people." Whisenhunt said Anderson will play approximately the first quarter in a flip of how they played the quarterbacks against Tennessee. The coach said it was an opportunity to see players in different roles as they also switch up at linebacker, cornerback and on the offensive line to evaluate personnel.
Analysis: Leinart entered camp as the de facto No. 1 QB, but he's failed to impress in the first two preseason games as he continues to look like a bust. If Anderson comes out and moves the offense on Saturday, he could well be named the starter early next week after tape is reviewed. Leinart was always a risky Fantasy pick coming into 2010, but no one knew his job would already be in jeopardy. His value takes a big hit with this news, so draft him in just very deep formats this weekend.
News: Arizona QB Matt Leinart made fans further wish Kurt Warner would come out retirement once again with his performance in the team's second preseason game on Monday night against Tennessee. Leinart struggled in his few series of plays. He recorded three series and did not accomplish a single first down. He went 4 for 6 with 28 yards passing. Tennessee didn't even generate much pressure on Leinart. He got rid of the ball quickly and still managed to fail to gain much yardage or lead the offense. Derek Anderson came in after Leinart and displayed a better ability to get the ball down field, though he had his own issues. "I'm trying to work to get better," Leinart said. "Guys are counting on me, and I'm confident that we're going to get the job done and I'm going to get the job done. And that's the bottom line."
Analysis: "You want to move the ball better, obviously," Leinart said. "It falls on the quarterback. … You guys critique every play and think I'm not very good because we don't move the ball. I understand it falls on the quarterback. The game plan is small. I'm not worried about it. I know I need to play better." Leinart went 6 for 7 in the first preseason game against Houston. Unfortunately, he only threw for 49 yards in that one and was sacked twice. Coach Ken Whisenhunt ripped his performance against the Texans in the first preseason game and couldn't be much happier after Leinart's performance in the second preseason tilt. Granted, Leinart did not have the comfort of throwing to Larry Fitzgerald against the Titans, but he definitely did not look good. Leinart will have to rely on Fitzgerald this season with Anquan Boldin gone. Right now, things look pretty iffy. Leinart should be considered a low-end No. 2 or high-end No. 3 Fantasy QB heading into the season.
News: Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt ripped into his players Monday after Saturday's poor performance against the Texans. "I was disappointed that we were not more effective in the first half and I was certainly not pleased that we put the ball on the ground the second play," Whisenhunt said. "That to me is unacceptable." Quarterback Matt Leinart stumbled after the snap and the result was a botched handoff to Tim Hightower that lost 11 yards. Whisenhunt acknowledged that a lineman stepped on Leinart's foot, but noted that Kurt Warner often survived such situations. "A lot of times you'll see that happen, the center steps on the quarterback's foot," Whisenhunt said. "But I don't take that as an excuse. They're good enough athletes that if that happens we can still get the ball off. I mean, how many times did we see Kurt falling down, especially near the goal line, and still getting the ball out. And Kurt was not as athletically gifted as some of the guys out there now. That's the standard we expect, we expect them to get the ball handed off."
Analysis: It's not the first nor will it be the last time that Leinart is compared with Warner, who finished his career with two spectacular years for Arizona before retiring after last season. "Matt, unfortunately, had to go through some mistakes by other teammates," Whisenhunt said. "That affected the way we played, but quarterbacks have to overcome that. ... It wasn't good enough. That wasn't a reflection of a player individually as much as it was our team. When you don't have success offensively it falls on the quarterback, much like when you do have success, they get credit for it." Leinart, on the other hand, was far less critical of himself. "I thought I did OK," he said. "I was confident in the huddle and comfortable." Leinart completed 6 of 7 passes for 49 yards on Saturday. He might have to go through the rest of the preseason without star receiver Larry Fitzgerald, who banged up his knee against Houston. But Fitz is expected to be ready for the opener in September. Leinart has a long ways to go to becoming Warner. He is at best a No. 2 Fantasy QB on Draft Day.
News:Matt Leinart's re-debut as the Cardinals' starting quarterback was good but not great. In his first preseason game Saturday vs. the Texans, Leinart's first series was marred by a botched handoff and a brutal sack on consecutive plays. On his second series, his first pass attempt fell at the feet of TE Anthony Becht, but it was the only incompletion he had all night. He hit Larry Fitzgerald on a high pass on the very next play for 16 yards and connected with other receivers in a ball-control style for the rest of his time in the game. He finished with 49 yards on 6 of 7 passing. In related news, teammate Derek Anderson completed 13 of 22 passes for 88 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions, not helping his cause to unseat Leinart from the starting job.
Analysis: Leinart didn't make anyone forget about Kurt Warner here, but it's his first preseason game of the season. Chances are he will continue to get acclimated and play it safe with his passing until he gets really comfortable. He seems locked into starting for the Cards this season, but even though he's got Larry Fitzgerald on his side, there's not much excitement for him because he's been more of a lightning rod for tabloid news than a stable NFL passer. Your best bet is to draft Leinart to be a No. 2 Fantasy QB with a late-round pick, minimizing any risk in having him on your roster. We'll see how he does against the Titans on Aug. 23.
News: The first preseason game is a chance for the veterans to shake the rust off, the youngsters to show if they can handle game speed instead of training camp pace. Matt Leinart is taking a different tact. This initial preseason game is his chance to build trust with his teammates, show them he's ready to handle all the responsibilities that come with being Arizona's starting quarterback. Saturday's game against Houston begins Leinart's second go-round as the season-opening starter and he knows how important it will be. "It's huge. I'm definitely not taking this preseason lightly," he said. "I don't think you ever do, but there's always that mindset that 'I'm only going to play a series.' I'm going in knowing I'm not going to play a whole lot, but I want to take advantage of those opportunities."
Analysis: Leinart's initial stint as Arizona's starter didn't go so well. It was 2007 and the heralded first-round draft pick out of Southern California was coming off a decent rookie season in which he threw for over 2,500 yards and 11 touchdowns after replacing Kurt Warner in Week 5. That gave Leinart the edge over the veteran the next training camp and the left-hander opened as starter. He lasted five games, sharing time with Warner while throwing four interceptions and two touchdowns with a quarterback rating of 61.9 before a broken collarbone ended his season. Leinart has started one game since - after Warner suffered a concussion - and spent the past two seasons as an understudy to Warner, who led the Cardinals to the Super Bowl in 2008 and another division title last season before retiring. We see Leinart playing better this time around. He should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB on Draft Day, and he's worth a late-round pick in all leagues.
News: Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald has confidence in QB Matt Leinart this year. Fitzgerald said Leinart should do well in replacing the retired Kurt Warner. "I don't think he thinks about it," Fitzgerald said Thursday. "He's just eager for his opportunity. Matt doesn't have to do anything spectacular. He has a lot of great talent around him." Fitzgerald said it's up to him, Steve Breaston and the rest of the receivers to help ease the transition for Leinart as the starter. "Just be consistent -- play at a high level every day, and I’m not talking about Sundays, I'm talking about practice where you make the biggest strides in developing that chemistry with receivers," Fitzgerald said.
Analysis: It's good to hear that Fitzgerald has faith in Leinart because he has a lot to prove to the Cardinals and Fantasy owners. We think Leinart can be successful in this offense, but we need to see it happen first. Go into 2010 with Leinart as a No. 2 Fantasy QB, but don't be surprised if he ends up as a No. 1 option before the end of the season. He is worth a late-round pick in all leagues.
News: The official team website for the Cardinals reports that QB Matt Leinart continues to look good in offseason workouts. He continues to impress coach Ken Whisenhunt, as Leinart is trying to replace the retired Kurt Warner and hold off Derek Anderson for the starting job. "You see it in (Matt's) confidence, how he runs the huddle and how he sees the plays," Whisenhunt said. "His reads are much more decisive. He is throwing the ball with confidence. And I think he knows what is in front of him. It's obvious to me he's more comfortable with the whole process, not just throwing a pass or knowing where guys line up. He understands the concepts of the plays and he has the ability to get us in and out of certain plays, all those things you see more assuredness from him. I am excited with what he has done in the OTAs so far." Leinart said he can't prove anything until he plays in games and does well. "My confidence is back," Leinart said. "It's hard to explain ... but I am good. I have to keep progressing but I can't wait. I kind of want to just jump-start to the season and play. It's coming easier to me than it ever has."
Analysis: Leinart is expected to start for the Cardinals this season, but Anderson will be waiting in case Leinart falters. We like Leinart as a sleeper in 2010, but he should be drafted as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with a late-round pick. He has plenty of talented weapons in Larry Fitzgerald, Steve Breaston, Early Doucet and Tim Hightower, and if Leinart plays anywhere close to how Warner did with the Cardinals then he could end up starting in the majority of leagues.
News: According to Cardinals quarterbacks coach Chris Miller, QB Matt Leinart looked good during the team's mid-May OTA. Miller said Leinart "threw maybe one poor ball in three days" of work and has done some things to earn the trust and respect of his teammates. They are also working on the details of his game. "We're working on pinpoint accuracy -- throwing the ball from the waist to the face mask, and he's getting there," Miller said, adding that Leinart got off to a good start.
Analysis: Leinart is expected to start for the Cardinals this season, but Derek Anderson will be waiting in case Leinart falters. We like Leinart as a sleeper in 2010, but he should be drafted as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with a late-round pick. He has plenty of talented weapons in Larry Fitzgerald, Steve Breaston, Early Doucet and Tim Hightower, and if Leinart plays anywhere close to how Warner did with the Cardinals then he could end up starting in deeper leagues. Remember, this is the offense that Kurt Warner was incredibly successful in.
News: The Arizona Republic reports that Cardinals QB Matt Leinart is looking forward to this season. He turned 27 on Tuesday. It's his fifth year, and in 2011 his salary increases by $5 million, and he could earn a $5 million roster bonus. The report states that if Leinart proves himself this season, the Cardinals likely would want to restructure his contract. If Leinart fails, he would not return, at least not at that pay grade. "People can say what they want about me, but I still haven't really proved anything yet," he said. "I haven't been out there, so I don't think you can make a fair judgment." Leinart said he learned playing behind Kurt Warner, who retired after the 2009 season ended. "It's not what I wanted, but at the same time, I got to learn from a great quarterback for a long time," Leinart said. "Kurt is a Hall of Fame guy. I feel like I've learned so much, and I'm more prepared and ready."
Analysis: Leinart is expected to start for the Cardinals this season, but Derek Anderson will be waiting in case Leinart falters. We like Leinart as a sleeper in 2010, but he should be drafted as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with a late-round pick. He has plenty of talented weapons in Larry Fitzgerald, Steve Breaston, Early Doucet and Tim Hightower, and if Leinart plays anywhere close to how Warner did with the Cardinals then he could end up starting in the majority of leagues.
News:Matt Leinart's first practice since the retirement of Kurt Warner didn't go the way the Cardinals' quarterback would have liked, but his second practice was much improved. The Cardinals hope it's a sign of things to come as Leinart is sitting in the driver's seat to start for the team, ahead of friend and fellow NFL veteran Derek Anderson. Leinart has shown flashes of greatness in the past, throwing for an NFL rookie-record 405 yards in a game against Minnesota in 2006, but he struggled against the Packers in Week 17 last season and has in fact not done well since his rookie year. But head coach Ken Whisenhunt said likes how Leinart is approaching this year and has indicated he wasn't concerned about how last year ended. "There's a little bit different feel with Matt," Whisenhunt said. "He knows now he's the guy. He's the one everybody's looking at. It's different when you've got Kurt Warner here with everything he brings. I don't see any difference as far as the time Matt's putting in or how hard he's working on the field."
Analysis: Leinart has the chance to excel this year with Warner now gone, and even Leinart said that even with Warner and WR Anquan Boldin out of the desert, and Alan Faneca improving the offensive line, that the Cardinals will throw the football plenty. We're not as convinced, but any quarterback throwing to the likes of Larry Fitzgerald and Steve Breaston has potential to put up numbers. Surely there are safer options out there for Fantasy use week in and week out, but Leinart is a solid No. 2 QB with upside. He's worth the late-round flier in every league this season.
News: Arizona WR Steve Breaston said in an interview with CBSSports.com that he expects Cardinals QB Matt Leinart to play well as he replaces the retired Kurt Warner this season. "Matt is very talented," Breaston said. "I can't see how people give him a lot of flack. A future Hall of Famer beat him out. It's Kurt Warner. It wasn't some Joe Blow off the street. Kurt is a great quarterback, and his numbers showed that. You can't be too hard on Matt. We're going to see that Matt, it's his job to lose. He's going to have a lot more confidence now that a Hall of Famer isn't breathing down his back." Leinart is expected to start ahead of Derek Anderson, and Breaston said Leinart has the chance to be successful. "We're going to play to Matt's strength with play action and things like that," Breaston said. "We're not asking him to light it up. We're just asking him to win games."
Analysis: We agree with Breaston that Leinart has the chance to excel this year with Warner now gone. But Leinart should still be viewed as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with upside. He's worth a late-round pick, and if he starts out the season playing well with Larry Fitzgerald, Breaston and Early Doucet as his main targets (remember, Anquan Boldin is now in Baltimore) then you can either start Leinart or use him as trade bait.
News: Cardinals QB coach Chris Miller said to the official team Web site that Matt Leinart has the potential to do well this year as the replacement for Kurt Warner as the starter. "I think Matt struggled at times being the backup because you tend to have a starter's mentality ... and so I am excited to see how good of a pro he can become," Miller said. In terms of Leinart's mechanics, Miller said there is some work to be done, but he's confident in Leinart's ability. "We all throw crappy balls from time to time, but that's been his nemesis," Miller said. "It's like being a golfer and having a snap hook in your game, and you come up on the 18th hole with a one-stroke lead and you hook it in the lake or out of bounds."
Analysis: Miller also said Derek Anderson need some work as well. "Derek has great physical tools and a big arm," Miller said. "But as a big guy, he needs to get footwork in position, his shoulders prepared and he needs his body in right spot or he will be inaccurate." We expect Leinart to be the starter with Anderson at No. 2, but it's a battle worth watching in training camp. But it goes without saying that whoever the Cardinals starting quarterback is in 2010 will be worth drafting late as a No. 2 QB with a lot of upside.
News: Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt reaffirmed in an interview with CBSSports.com at the NFL Annual Meeting in Orlando, FL that Matt Leinart would enter training camp as the starter ahead of newcomer Derek Anderson, but also said "we're going to play the best player." When discussing the quarterback battle he had in 2008 when Kurt Warner unseated Leinart just before the start of the season, Whisenhunt made it clear that was not a proper representation of Leinart. "I think the thing people lose sight of is that Matt was in a competition with Kurt. Even though he was the starter, he was competing with Kurt. And Matt barely lost out to Kurt, and Kurt went on to have an MVP-type season. So for me, the fact that he was able to compete with him and just barely lose out must have meant he was playing at a high level in training camp. That is why we value competition -- it raises everybody's game. Matt understands that and welcomes that because he's prepared for it."
Analysis: We're not locking in Leinart as the Cardinals' starting quarterback this season simply because of Whisenhunt's move in 2008. If Anderson can come in and play well, he'll have just as good a shot to take the starting job as Warner did. Leinart has not had many impressive moments over his pro career and is far from a lock to start. The same can be said of Anderson, of course. We're a little nervous about this situation since it could severely impact the performance of the Cardinals' receivers this year, and it goes without saying that whoever the Cardinals starting quarterback is in 2010 will be worth drafting late as a No. 2 QB with a lot of upside.
News: Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt has softened his stance that there would be a quarterback competition in camp this summer, naming Matt Leinart the team's starter the same week the team signed Derek Anderson and declared an open battle. "Matt's the starter," Whisenhunt said. "That's the way it's going to be."
Analysis: We're not buying it. A few years back Whisenhunt made similar statements about Leinart and then ultimately gave Kurt Warner the starting job. The Cardinals then went on to the Super Bowl. Leinart has not had many impressive moments over his pro career and is far from a lock to start. The same can be said of Anderson, of course. We're a little nervous about this situation since it could severely impact the performance of the Cardinals' receivers this year, and it goes without saying that whoever the Cardinals starting quarterback is in 2010 will be worth drafting late as a No. 2 QB with a lot of upside.
News: Arizona will be the new home for QB Derek Anderson, according to the team's official Web site. The two sides have agreed on terms. Anderson's signing suggests that he'll receive some consideration to start as the team transitions following Kurt Warner's retirement. Matt Leinart is the only other passer on the roster with extensive NFL experience, so the two of them will battle for the starting job. "We have seen a tremendous amount of growth from Matt. He has worked hard," coach Ken Whisenhunt said Wednesday, "but I am also excited about Derek and there will be competition at that position. That's not anything different than what we have at other positions."
Analysis: Anderson has a pretty strong arm, but accuracy has been a big problem for him over the last two seasons. Leinart's accuracy isn't much better, but his experience in the Cardinals offense should give him an early edge in the quarterback competition. Both passers have a lot to prove in order to land the starting gig. It goes without saying that whoever the Cardinals starting quarterback is in 2010 will be worth drafting late as a No. 2 QB with a lot of upside.
News: Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald said in an interview with CBSSports.com that he's confident Matt Leinart can get the job done in replacing the retired Kurt Warner as Arizona's new starting QB. Warner retired after the season ended with a playoff loss to New Orleans, and Leinart is expected to be the presumed replacement. "I'm excited," Fitzgerald said. "Matt's waited a long time. To come out of college with all the publicity and all the accolades that he was able to accumulate, I think it's been stressful for him. Finally he's going to get his shot to get it done. ... He worked really hard this year. Matt has shed that negative connotation that he's a party guy. That's really not who he is. He's really a down home, good working guy. We're looking forward to having a big year."
Analysis: It's good to hear that Fitzgerald has faith in Leinart because he has a lot to prove to the Cardinals and Fantasy owners. We think Leinart can be successful in this offense because of Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin, but we need to see it happen first. Go into 2010 with Leinart as a No. 2 Fantasy QB, but don't be surprised if he ends up as a No. 1 option before the end of the season if the Cardinals stick with him as the starter in 2010.
News:Kurt Warner has called an end to one of the great storybook careers in NFL history. The 38-year-old quarterback announced his retirement from the game on Friday after 12 years in a league that at first rejected him, then revered him as he came from nowhere to lead the lowly St. Louis Rams to two Super Bowls, winning the first of them. Written off as a has-been, he rose again to lead the long-suffering Arizona Cardinals to the Super Bowl a year ago. "I'm excited about what's next," Warner said. "Before I was always excited about next season." Warner walked away with a year left on a two-year, $23 million contract, knowing he still had the skills to play at the highest level. His departure means Matt Leinart is expected to take over as the starting QB in 2010.
Analysis: Leinart, the former Heisman Trophy winner, has started 17 games for Arizona but only one in the last two years. We'll find out if the Cardinals plan to bring in another QB to compete with Leinart, but he has the potential to be a sleeper in 2010. The Cardinals have elite talent at WR in Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin, and Leinart could benefit playing a full season with those targets. Plan on drafting Leinart as a No. 2 Fantasy QB, but don't be surprised if he ends up as a No. 1 option before the end of the season if the Cardinals stick with him as the starter in 2010.
News: The Cardinals announced that QB Kurt Warner will hold a news conference Friday to announce whether he will retire from the game. Warner, 38, has one year, worth about $11.5 million, on the two-year contract he signed before last season. But the day after Arizona was eliminated in 45-14 loss to the Saints, he said money would not be a significant factor in his decision. He also said that although he loves the games themselves, it's the long hours of physical and mental preparation that wear on him. "The farther I've gotten into this, the more and more I demand of myself, that's physically, staying in shape because I'm older, that's mentally in preparing and putting in work and time to try to help put this thing together the way that I want it put together," Warner said. "All that stuff gets more and more a burden every year."
Analysis: We suspect that Warner is leaning toward retirement. If that happens, the door would open for Matt Leinart to run the Arizona offense, though there is always the chance that the team would acquire another quarterback to compete with him for the starting gig. As for Warner, the only ones affected by him retiring would be those in dynasty/keeper leagues; if you're one of those owners, begin to put a plan in place to replace him if you have not yet done so already. Of course, if he decides to play in 2010 he'd be a good No. 1 Fantasy QB that would be a relative steal compared to where other elite quarterbacks are taken in drafts. We'll keep you posted on this and when news develops we'll cover it for you.
News: Speaking to ESPN, Cardinals QB Kurt Warner said that he's tired of dealing with the pressures of being an NFL quarterback and seems to be on the brink of hanging up his cleats for good. He re-stated that he was prepared to walk away after WR Anquan Boldin took a major hit last year in a game at the Jets but stuck around. It paid off for him as he led the Cardinals to the Super Bowl last season and to two more playoff games this season, but the grind of football is getting to him. "I pray that God takes away the desire in me to play this game," he said. "I've loved it for so long. I need Him to take that away from me, so that I can be comfortable with this decision."
Analysis: Expect Warner to retire before this offseason is through. If that happens, the door would open for Matt Leinart to run the Arizona offense, though there is always the chance that the team would acquire another quarterback to compete with him for the starting gig. As for Warner, the only ones affected by him retiring would be those in dynasty/keeper leagues; if you're one of those owners, begin to put a plan in place to replace him if you have not yet done so already. We'll keep you posted on this.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart replaced QB Kurt Warner in the second quarter of Week 17 against the Packers as Arizona wanted to rest Warner for the playoffs. The Cardinals hoped Leinart would finish out the game and possibly lead them to victory. Neither happened. Arizona lost 33-7 and Brian St. Pierre replaced Leinart in the fourth quarter. Leinart finished 13 of 21 for 96 yards and two interceptions. His day would have been worse had a holding penalty in the end zone not negated another interception.
Analysis: If the Cardinals could go back in time, they would probably undraft Leinart in 2006 because he has been a bust of a first-round pick. He didn't even have a passing touchdown in 2009 in limited time as Warner's backup, but he did manage to throw three interceptions in eight games. Arizona has Leinart locked up for the next few years, but his status will be determined on what Warner does in the offseason. Keep tabs on Leinart's progress before drafting him in Fantasy in 2010.
News: Arizona QB Matt Leinart entered the Week 16 game against the Rams with a comfortable lead late in the 4th quarter. He took over for Kurt Warner, who deserved the rest. Leinart did not throw a pass in the game.
Analysis: Leinart is a decent insurance policy for Kurt Warner's Fantasy owners but outside of that has zero Fantasy value for Week 17 against the Packers.
News: Cardinals RB LaRod Stephens-Howling, WR Early Doucet, TE Anthony Becht, WR Sean Morey and backup QB Matt Leinart all dressed but failed to record an offensive stat for Week 15 at the Lions.
Analysis: Leinart is a decent insurance policy for Kurt Warner's Fantasy owners and Doucet had been earning some playing time over the last few weeks, but the rest of these guys are reserves for the Cardinals and hardly contribute on offense. Continue to keep them reserved in Fantasy.
News: Arizona started a two tight end set on Monday night of Week 14 at San Francisco as both Anthony Becht and Ben Patrick got the nods. Neither player caught a pass in the game. Also going without stats on Monday night were: RB Jason Wright, FB Dan Kreider, WR Sean Morey and backup QB Matt Leinart.
Analysis: Leinart is a decent insurance policy for Kurt Warner's Fantasy owners, but the rest of these guys are reserves for the Cardinals and hardly contribute on offense. Continue to keep them reserved in Fantasy for Week 15 at Detroit.
News: Cardinals TE Anthony Becht, FB Dan Kreider, WR Sean Morey and backup QB Matt Leinart all dressed but failed to record an offensive stat for Week 13 vs. the Vikings.
Analysis: Leinart is a decent insurance policy for Kurt Warner's Fantasy owners, but the rest of these guys are reserves for the Cardinals and hardly contribute on offense. Continue to keep them reserved in Fantasy.
News: Cardinals QB Kurt Warner, who missed last week's game with concussion-like symptoms, is active and will start Week 13 against the Vikings, according to multiple sources. Matt Leinart, who filled in for Warner last week, will return to a backup role.
Analysis: The Vikings lead the NFL in sacks with 40, and Warner has struggled this year in games where he's faced pressure (see Week 1 against San Francisco, Week 3 against Indianapolis and Week 8 against Carolina). Coming off the injury, he's still a somewhat risky play in Fantasy even though he's normally a No. 1 option. Obviously, Leinart goes back to having minimal Fantasy value, assuming Warner lasts through this game.
News: Arizona coach Ken Whisenhunt said he doesn't expect to decide who will start at quarterback on Sunday night against the Vikings until just before game time. Kurt Warner and Matt Leinart split practice time with the starters again on Thursday, and Whisenhunt said he has made no decision. "You want to make the decision now but certainly we've got to see how everything goes with Kurt," Whisenhunt said. "Even though he may feel great today, there might be a situation where something could come up." Warner, who sustained a concussion against St. Louis on Nov. 22, took all the practice time with the starters last week but sat out Sunday's 20-17 loss at Tennessee because of lingering symptoms. That left Leinart the starter without much preparation. Warner said he feels much better this week but Whisenhunt is putting off his decision in case there are any late setbacks.
Analysis: This is bad news for Warner, who has a tough matchup with the Vikings even if he was 100 percent healthy. The Vikings lead the NFL in sacks with 40, and Warner struggled this year in games where he's faced pressure (see Week 1 against San Francisco, Week 3 against Indianapolis, Week 7 at the Giants and Week 8 against Carolina). Leinart won't fare much better, so don't consider him a viable alternative. Last year against the Vikings, Warner only passed for 270 yards, one touchdown and one interception. You should plan on benching Warner and Leinart this week to be safe since the game starts at 8 p.m. EST. You don't want to be stuck with Warner in your lineup and find out he's not playing.
News: Arizona's Kurt Warner says he had his "best day yet" since sustaining a concussion two games ago. Still, Warner split practice time with backup Matt Leinart on Wednesday as coach Ken Whisenhunt and his staff took a cautious approach to handling the 38-year-old quarterback's head injury. By contrast, Warner took all the first-string reps in practice last week only to sit out Sunday's 20-17 loss at Tennessee, snapping his string of 41 consecutive starts. Whisenhunt said he hopes to avoid waiting until game time to name a starting quarterback for Sunday night's game against the Vikings. "It's really about Kurt and where he is as far as improving and how comfortable he is with his health status," the coach said. Warner said Wednesday that the hard-to-describe "fogginess" behind his eyes has disappeared. Warner was hurt when his head was slammed to the turf in the second quarter of Arizona's 21-13 victory at St. Louis on Nov. 22. He stayed in the game to direct the Cardinals' third touchdown drive, then sat out the second half.
Analysis: Against Tennessee in Week 12, Leinart was 21 of 31 for 220 yards and directed an 80-yard touchdown drive that put Arizona ahead 17-13 early in the fourth quarter. Warner ranks fourth in the NFC in passing, behind Drew Brees, Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers. He has completed 67.5 percent of his passes for 2,718 yards and 20 touchdowns with 11 interceptions, five in one game. In the six quarters since throwing those five picks against Carolina, Warner was 66 for 88 (75 percent) for 804 yards and nine touchdowns with no interceptions. Even if Warner is healthy and active for Week 13, he's not expected to be a dynamite Fantasy option against a good Vikings defense that will bring a heavy blitz. Naturally, Leinart's outlook is even worse than Warner's if he starts for the Cardinals.
News: Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt said Monday that QB Kurt Warner would remain monitored on a daily basis and stopped short of calling him the team's starter in Week 13 vs. Minnesota. The official team Web site expects more information to come out by Wednesday when the team begins practicing for the Vikings. Matt Leinart started in place of Warner in Week 12 at Tennessee and completed 21 of 31 passes for 220 yards with no scores or turnovers.
Analysis: It looks like Warner's status will remain up in the air for the next couple of days. If you own Warner, use this time to find the best possible replacement for him in case he doesn't play against the Vikings in Week 13. Low-end passers with decent matchups include Alex Smith of the 49ers, Kyle Orton of the Broncos and Vince Young of the Titans. But even if Warner is healthy, he's not expected to be a dynamite Fantasy option against a good Vikings defense that will bring a heavy blitz. Naturally, Leinart's outlook is even worse than Warner's if he starts for the Cardinals.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart, getting a start after Kurt Warner left last week's game with concussion-like symptoms, wasn't bad Week 12 at Tennessee, but he wasn't as explosive as Warner either. He completed 21 of 31 passes for 220 yards, but he didn't throw a touchdown pass. Then again, he didn't commit a turnover either.
Analysis: Leinart led the Cardinals to only 17 points in a game they ultimately lost, so you can bet they'll be anxious to get Kurt Warner back in the lineup Week 13 against the Vikings. Warner almost played this week, so he's a safe bet to return next week. Don't bother adding Leinart unless you play in such a deep league that even some backup quarterbacks deserve roster spots.
News: Cardinals QB Kurt Warner, who left last week's game with concussion-like symptoms but managed to practice in full this week, is inactive for Week 12 at Tennessee. According to earlier reports, he woke up this morning with a stiff neck. Matt Leinart will start in Warner's place, but the Cardinals will probably run a more conservative offense with him.
Analysis: Hopefully, you took a conservative approach and sat Warner earlier in the day, but if you still need a replacement, you could do worse than Leinart. Warner was on his best stretch of the season, throwing nine touchdown passes and zero interceptions over his last three games. He came close to playing this week, so he'll likely return Week 13 against the Vikings. He'll be a No. 1 QB in Fantasy even with the tough matchup.
News: ESPN reports that Cardinals QB Kurt Warner (head) woke up with a sore neck on Sunday and is unlikely to play in Week 12 at Tennessee.
Analysis: Warner has started 41 consecutive games for Arizona. If he doesn't go, Matt Leinart is the backup. If you own Warner, you might want to throw your backup option in there, but many owners with their backup playing at 1 p.m. ET might be out of luck because this news came so late. Maybe you can pick up Leinart, who will be a No. 2 Fantasy QB option, or grab another free agent QB playing in the late games. We'll have the official word on Warner by around 2:45 p.m. ET on Sunday afternoon.
News:Kurt Warner went through another full practice on Friday, his third of the week, but the Arizona quarterback was listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Tennessee. Warner practiced all week after sustaining a concussion in last Sunday's 21-13 victory at St. Louis. He passed all the required mental tests on Tuesday. Warner and Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt have said they plan to be cautious as they deal with the head injury. In addition to the concussion, Warner has had tightness in his neck. "I felt the best I've felt all week," he said Friday. "Assuming nothing changes, I plan to be out there."
Analysis: Warner has started 41 consecutive games for Arizona. If he doesn't go, Matt Leinart is the backup. We expect Warner to go as the Cardinals have been conservative with their injury reports for much of the season -- for instance, Steve Breaston is listed as questionable almost every week and he plays every week. If you own Warner, be prepared to have a backup ready to go in case he doesn't make it to their Week 12 late game (Leinart is an obvious choice). We'll have the official word on Warner by around 2:45 p.m. ET on Sunday afternoon.
News: Arizona quarterback Kurt Warner went through a full practice on Wednesday and says he expects to play Sunday at Tennessee. Warner says he passed the required mental tests on Tuesday after sustaining a concussion in last Sunday's 21-13 victory at St. Louis. He says he plans to be cautious as he prepares through the week but as of Wednesday all signs were good that he would make his 42nd consecutive NFL start.
Analysis: We can expect Warner to be useful in Fantasy now that he seems cleared to play, which means considering backup QB Matt Leinart as a replacement isn't necessary. Expect Warner to play like a low-end No. 1 Fantasy passer in what is a tough matchup at Tennessee in Week 12, but he'll surely have the horses to compete with them.
News: Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt said Monday that QB Kurt Warner has "concussion-like symptoms" after taking a shot to the head in Week 11 at St. Louis. However, he hasn't officially been diagnosed with a concussion. Warner will have tests Tuesday and likely will take a baseline test Wednesday to determine his availability. Whisenhunt talked to Warner on the flight home from St. Louis about strategies and next week's opponent, the Titans. According to Whisenhunt, Warner was "upbeat and his mind was clear." Warner finished 15 of 19 passing for 203 yards and two touchdowns with a fumble in just under one half of play. Matt Leinart replaced him under center.
Analysis: Fantasy owners who have been starting Warner need to consider forming a backup plan just in case the stud quarterback doesn't play. One option: Leinart, who wasn't overly impressive in a half against the Rams but according to Whisenhunt that was because "there were a lot of things we didn't allow him to do." We'll keep you posted on Warner's availability throughout the week, but for now be sure you're OK with the quarterback you have behind him on your team since you might need to turn to him in Week 12.
News: Cardinals backup QB Matt Leinart played the entire second half Week 11 at St. Louis after starter Kurt Warner left with concussion-related symptoms, but he mostly just handed the ball off. He finished 10 of 14 passing for 74 yards.
Analysis: The Cardinals watered down their offense with Leinart under center, which is why they didn't score a single point in the second half. Leinart, a former first-round pick, could become a factor in Fantasy if something happened to Warner, but this injury doesn't sound serious enough to sideline Warner for Week 12 at Tennessee. Don't bother with Leinart off the waiver wire unless you need insurance for Warner in an especially deep Fantasy league.
News: Cardinals TE Stephen Spach, TE Anthony Becht, RB Jason Wright, RB Dan Kreider, WR Jerheme Urban and QB Matt Leinart all dressed but failed to record an offensive stat for Week 10 vs. Seattle.
Analysis: Most of these players are reserves for the Cardinals and hardly contribute on offense. Continue to keep them reserved in Fantasy heading into Week 11 against the Rams.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart attempted one pass at Chicago in Week 9 and was picked off.
Analysis: Leinart continues to hold the proverbial clipboard for Kurt Warner. Keep him on waivers. The Cardinals play the Seahawks in Week 10.
News: Cardinals RB Jason Wright, RB Dan Kreider, TE Mike Leach, WR Jerheme Urban, WR Sean Morey and QB Matt Leinart didn't record offensive statistics Week 8 against the Panthers.
Analysis: None of these players ever does enough statistically to matter in Fantasy. Leave them all on waivers.
News: Cardinals FB Dan Kreider, WR Sean Morey and QB Matt Leinart all dressed but failed to record an offensive stat in Week 7 at the Giants.
Analysis: None of these players are worth using in Week 8 against Carolina. Only Leinart has minimal Fantasy value in deep keeper leagues for this season.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart played late in the fourth quarter of a 27-3 blowout win Week 6 against the Seahawks. He completed bot of his passes for 16 yards and even rushed for 1 yard.
Analysis: Leinart has played in a few games this season, but it has been in mop-up duty. He is not threatening QB Kurt Warner for the starter's job. Leinart still has little to no Fantasy appeal heading into Week 7 against the Giants.
News: Arizona backup QB Matt Leinart came on for Kurt Warner on Sunday night against Indianapolis with the game out of reach in the fourth quarter. Leinart was 2 of 2 passing for 7 yards.
Analysis: Leinart has minimal Fantasy value and will only play if Warner is hurt. The Cardinals have a bye in Week 4, so don't plan on using Leinart, and it's doubtful he'll factor at all in Week 5 against Houston.
News: Arizona QB Matt Leinart saw action in Week 2's win over the Jaguars with the game safely in hand. The Cardinals pulled Kurt Warner late in the 3rd quarter. Leinart played the rest of the way and went 3 of 6 for 22 yards. He also rushed three times for minus-3 yards.
Analysis: Leinart won't play very often this season behind Warner unless the old veteran gets hurt. That didn't happen on Sunday, the game was simply a blowout. Arizona plays at home against Indianapolis in Week 3 but Leinart is not worth using, or really even owning, in Fantasy play.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart (shoulder) was able to play in Thursday's preseason game against the Broncos. He completed 1 of 4 passes for four yards and an interception.
Analysis: We doubt the sore shoulder had to do with Leinart's poor performance and more the fact he just couldn't get into a rhythm. Leinart will remain the No. 2 QB for Arizona, but as long as Kurt Warner is healthy Leinart won't see the field. It's safe to ignore him in most seasonal Fantasy formats.
News: Cardinals backup QB Matt Leinart was limited in practice Monday because of soreness in the left shoulder of his throwing arm. Coach Ken Whisenhunt said the injury, which was caused by a hit against the Packers in Friday's preseason game, isn't serious.
Analysis: Leinart will remain the No. 2 QB for Arizona, but as long as Kurt Warner is healthy Leinart won't see the field. Ignore Leinart on Draft Day in most standard formats.
News: In the Cardinals' third preseason game vs. the Packers, backup QB Matt Leinart took advantage of landing extended playing time and absolutely lit up Green Bay's second- and third-string defense. Playing from behind and nearly leading Arizona to a win if not for a dropped two-point conversion pass, Leinart completed 24 of 38 passes for 360 yards with three touchdowns and an interception -- all without having Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin or Steve Breason on the field with him (Jerheme Urban went over 100 yards receiving thanks to Leinart's efforts). He did fumble three times, but the Packers didn't recover one of them. "It was fun," said Leinart on the official team Web site. "We are trying to win every game, preseason or not. A lot of situations came up in the second half just trying to win, two-minute situation, working with timeouts. There was a lot of action to draw (experience) from."
Analysis: Some Fantasy owners are beginning to consider drafting Leinart as an insurance policy in case Warner comes out of the gate slow or gets hurt this season. Warner is already having a poor preseason, failing to throw a touchdown through three games. We like the concept of such a thing but don't recommend it unless it's in a draft with at least 20 rounds. Leinart is far from a starting Fantasy option, but we all might be clamoring for him off waivers at some point this season.
News: Despite playing only one series, Cardinals QB Matt Leinart looked significantly better than teammate Brian St. Pierre in the quest to be Kurt Warner's backup. With second and third-string teammates, Leinart was 6 of 10 for 74 yards in his fourth-quarter action. St. Pierre was an unimpressive 6 of 15 for 79 yards and an interception in two quarters.
Analysis: Leinart should end up as the No. 2 QB for Arizona, but as long as Warner is healthy neither QB will see the field. Ignore both on Draft Day.
News: Arizona coach Ken Whisenhunt liked what he saw from Matt Leinart in the Cardinals preseason opener in Pittsburgh. Whisenhunt said Leinart "really made some big-time throws" while he was in the game.
Analysis: Whisenhunt has turned up the pressure on Leinart in training camp by saying Brian St. Pierre has a chance to be the No. 2 quarterback behind Kurt Warner. Leinart says he's taken it all in stride, and his performance in Thursday night's 20-10 loss impressed the coach. Leinart will likely be the No. 2 QB is Arizona this season and could get some starts as Kurt Warner isn't exactly a lock to play in all 16 games. However, Leinart should not be taken on Draft Day.
News: A year ago in training camp, Matt Leinart was trying, and ultimately failing, to keep the Arizona starting quarterback job. Now he's in a fight to remain No. 2. Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt assured Brian St. Pierre that he'd get a shot at the backup job to Kurt Warner, and he hasn't backed off that pledge in the first week of camp. Whisenhunt brushed aside the situation as a non-story. "To be talking about a competition at the second-team quarterback to me just means there's not a whole lot else going on," he said, "because nobody talks about the battles for the second-team running back or the second-team linebacker and there's no difference in my eyes."
Analysis: Fantasy owners might be interested to know who the backup is in Arizona since Kurt Warner, the starter, is no lock to play 16 games. For now, neither passer is worth owning in Fantasy.
News: The Arizona Republic reports Cardinals QB Matt Leinart worked out a few times with Patriots QB Tom Brady at UCLA this offseason. Brady worked with Leinart on his footwork, release and other fundamentals.
Analysis: Maybe this was Brady's way of helping out another former USC QB like he did with Matt Cassel. It can't hurt Leinart to spend time with Brady in the offseason and Kurt Warner during the year, and hopefully all the extra help will rub off. Leinart will again be the No. 2 QB behind Warner this season. He's not worth drafting in any leagues coming into the year.
News: The Arizona Republic reports Cardinals QB Brian St. Pierre asked coach Ken Whisenhunt for a legitimate shot to become Kurt Warner's backup. "All I want is an honest chance to compete for the No. 2, so I'm looking forward to that, whenever it will happen, because it hasn't yet," St. Pierre said. St. Pierre assumes he's been running with the third team in voluntary practices because a bad back forced him to miss minicamp earlier this month. St. Pierre has never risen above third on the depth chart in his NFL career, which has included stints in Pittsburgh and Baltimore. He turns 30 in November and has played in only one game, throwing one pass (incomplete). He's eager for a chance to prove himself and wants to beat out Matt Leinart for the No. 2 job.
Analysis: This would be shocking if St. Pierre is ahead of Leinart on the depth chart, something we don't expect to happen. Whoever is No. 2 could be worth keeping an eye on because Warner is coming off hip surgery and is near the end of his career. Still, don't draft either Leinart or St. Pierre in any leagues.
News: Cardinals QB Kurt Warner threw four touchdown passes in Week 17 against Seattle. He completed 19-of-30 passes for 263 yards and was intercepted once. He was replaced late in the game by Matt Leinart, who completed 5-of-8 passes for 83 yards.
Analysis: Leinart got into the final three games of the regular season and managed one touchdown and an interception. Kurt Warner is no guarantee to return next season and Leinart is still viewed as the future quarterback of the team. With so many receiving weapons around him, he could become a real Fantasy sleeper if he becomes the starter this offseason.
News: With Kurt Warner struggling and the Cardinals having nothing to play for and losing, Matt Leinart replaced Warner with 3:27 left in the third quarter Sunday at New England. He went 6-of-14 for 138 yards with an interception, a fumble and a 78-yard touchdown on which Larry Fitzgerald ran most of the way to cut the lead to 47-7 with 6:17 left.
Analysis: As long as Warner is around in Arizona, Leinart will remain a backup. He should only be owned in long-term keeper leagues at this time. Leinart could be used in Week 17 against Seattle if the Cardinals say Warner won't play, but as of now, keep Leinart reserved against the Seahawks.
News:Matt Leinart came in for the last series for the Cardinals in Week 15 against Minnesota, just the second time he's played this season. The other was mop-up duty in Game 2 against Miami.
Analysis: Leinart completed 3-of-5 passes for 28 yards and just missed throwing a touchdown pass to Anquan Boldin. As long as Kurt Warner is around in Arizona, though, Leinart will remain a backup. He should only be owned in long-term keeper leagues at this time.
News: The following Cardinals did not have a stat in Week 12 against the Giants: Matt Leinart, RB Tim Castille, WR Sean Morey, TE Ben Patrick.
Analysis: None of the players on this list should be considered viable Fantasy option. They are not in a position to contribute regular stats as they aren't in line for regular playing time. They've got some depth chart climbing to do and should be left on the waiver wire.
News: Cardinals RB Terrelle Smith, RB Tim Castille, TE Stephen Spach, WR Sean Morey and QB Matt Leinart all dressed, but failed to record an offensive stat Week 11 at Arizona.
Analysis: Most of these players are reserves for the Cardinals and play a marginal role on offense when active. Continue to keep them off Fantasy rosters or reserved in deeper formats until further notice. Arizona hosts the Giants Week 12.
News: Cardinals TE Leonard Pope, RB Terrelle Smith, RB Tim Castille, TE Stephen Spach, WR Sean Morey and QB Matt Leinart all dressed, but failed to record an offensive stat Week 10 vs. San Francisco.
Analysis: Pope is the only starter among the list of players that didn't factor Week 10. Still, he doesn't see a lot of passes thrown his way and has as much Fantasy value as the other players -- little to none. Make sure to keep all of these players reserved heading into Week 11 against the Seahawks.
News: Cardinals TE Jerame Tuman, FB Tim Castille, TE Stephen Spach, WR Sean Morey, RB Edgerrin James and QB Matt Leinart all dressed for Arizona's Week 9 win over the Rams, but did not record an offensive stat.
Analysis: James is the only one in this group with any Fantasy value. None of these other guys have any Fantasy value.
News: Cardinals RB Terrelle Smith, WR Sean Morey and QB Matt Leinart didn't record statistics in Week 8 at Carolina.
Analysis: Ignore all these players in Week 9 at St. Louis. Only Leinart would have Fantasy value if he was named the starter over Kurt Warner, which isn't going to happen against the Rams.
News: Cardinals TE Jerame Tuman, RB Terrelle Smith, WR Sean Morey and QB Matt Leinart didn't record statistics Week 6 against the Cowboys.
Analysis: None of these players ever does enough statistically to matter in Fantasy. Leave them all on waivers.
News: Cardinals RB Terrelle Smith, WR Sean Morey and QB Matt Leinart didn't record offensive statistics Week 5 against the Bills.
Analysis: None of these players does enough on a week-to-week basis in Fantasy. Leave them all on waivers.
News: Cardinals RB Tim Castille, TE Leonard Pope, WR Sean Morey and QB Matt Leinart all dressed, but failed to record an offensive stat Week 4 at N.Y. Jets.
Analysis: Most of these players are reserves for the Cardinals and don't have a key role on offense at this time. It's safe to keep them off Fantasy rosters heading into Week 5 against the Bills.
News: Arizona WR Sean Morey and FB Terrelle Smith played in Sunday's loss to the Redskins in Washington but did not record any stats. Backup quarterback Matt Leinart did not play in the game.
Analysis: None of these players have any Fantasy value. Continue to ignore them in Week 3 at Washington.
News: Cardinals backup QB Matt Leinart completed 1 of 2 passes for 15 yards and ran twice for minus-two yards in a rout of the Dolphins in Week 2.
Analysis: Sunday's game was out of hand by the time Leinart entered, so don't read anything into this move. Leinart remains worth owning in deeper leagues, as Kurt Warner has a habit of getting hurt, but obviously don't start him in Week 3 at Washington.
News: Arizona backup QB Matt Leinart was in uniform and ready to play on Sunday in Week 1 against the 49ers. But with Kurt Warner looking solid as the team's starter, Leinart didn't see any action.
Analysis: Leinart is still considered Arizona's QB of the future. He's just not the QB of now for the Cardinals and now is what Fantasy owners care about. He still has the chance to play if the aging Warner gets hurt, but heading into Week 2 against Miami, he won't be starting.
News:Matt Leinart says his tough and ultimately unsuccessful effort to win back the starting quarterback job for the Arizona Cardinals made him a better player. Now he just has to wait for a chance to prove it. "It was tough to take because we're all competitors and we all want to play," Leinart said after practice Monday. "But it did push me. It did make me a better quarterback and I'm going to keep on getting better. I know my opportunity will come sooner or later." Coach Ken Whisenhunt announced Saturday that 37-year-old Kurt Warner would be the starter when the Cardinals open their season Sunday at San Francisco. Warner said he and Leinart talked about the situation before practice Monday and expressed support for one another. "One thing I have to believe and hopefully Matt believes is that I'm not just a has-been quarterback that can't play," Warner said. "I want him to believe that I'm one of the better quarterbacks in this league and that he played very well this year."
Analysis: Leinart, in his third pro season after a spectacular college career at USC, alluded to the perception by some around the league that he could be a first-round NFL bust. "I know I'm criticized for a lot of stuff that I do, every single day, every snap, but this preseason got me better. It got me mentally tougher," he said. "Like I said, I'm young. I've had 16 starts in my career. A lot of people are saying all these things. I'm still very young in this league you know." Leinart started the first five games last year before a broken collarbone sidelined him for the rest of the season. Warner came on and threw for 3,417 yards and 27 touchdowns, even though most of the time he played with a brace on his left elbow because of a torn ligament. Whisenhunt said the day after last season ended that Leinart was the No. 1 quarterback, but that changed through training camp and the preseason. Consider Leinart nothing more than a low-end Fantasy reserve heading into 2008.
News: According to the Cardinals' team website, Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt said Saturday that Kurt Warner will be the team's starting quarterback for the regular-season opener Sept. 7 in San Francisco.
Analysis: You can expect Warner to shoot up our rankings. Not only does he have a terrific arm and strong command of the Cardinals' offense, but he's also playing in a contract year. Moreover, Arizona's receivers played much better with Warner than they did Leinart, something that's continued on this preseason. Now that he's starting, Warner is a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB worth a middle-round pick while Leinart is relegated to being a late-round flier as a handcuff to those owners who pick Warner. Consider him a low-end No. 1 QB for Week 1 at San Francisco. Leinart should be reserved, if not cut, in all leagues.
News: According to the Cardinals' team website, Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt said Saturday that Kurt Warner will be the team's starting quarterback for the regular-season opener Sept. 7 in San Francisco.
Analysis: You can expect Warner to shoot up our rankings. Not only does he have a terrific arm and strong command of the Cardinals' offense, but he's also playing in a contract year. Really, this couldn't have worked out better for Warner, or for receivers Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin, both of whom posted their best stats last season with Leinart on the bench. Now that he's starting, Warner is a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB worth a middle-round pick while Leinart is relegated to being a late-round flier as a handcuff to those owners who pick Warner.
News: Cardinals QB Kurt Warner was 4-for-4 for 48 yards but couldn't get Arizona on the scoreboard, starting in their preseason finale vs. Denver. Teammate Matt Leinart was more impressive, going 10-of-14 for 177 yards and a score, all in the second quarter against what amounted to the Denver junior varsity. Afterward, head coach Ken Whisenhunt praised the play of both quarterbacks and wouldn't commit to which would start in the Sept. 7 opener at San Francisco. Previously, ESPN reported that Warner would be named starter, but the Cardinals said that wasn't true. "We've got some tape to look at," Whisenhunt said. "We've got to go back and evaluate all the information that we've compiled over the last six months. ... It's going to be a tough decision."
Analysis: In the preseason, Leinart went 28-of-45 passing for 354 yards (half of which came in the preseason finale) with two touchdowns, three INTs and a yards-per-attempt average of 7.9. Warner has barely played this preseason, completing 12-of-17 passes for 142 yards (8.4 yards per attempt), but was a stud last year for Arizona throwing for 3,417 yards and 27 touchdowns over 11 starts. Moreover, Arizona's receivers played much better with Warner than they did Leinart, something that's continued on this preseason. For those of you who draft in the immediate future, neither quarterback is worth touting as a No. 1 option, but Warner seems like the best passer the Cards have. Don't spend anything more than a middle-round pick on either guy until we get the official word out of Arizona.
News: The Arizona Republic reports that Cardinals QB Kurt Warner will start Arizona's final preseason game vs. Denver on Friday night. Matt Leinart will enter the game after a couple of series.
Analysis: Read what you will into this announcement, but Warner hasn't been playing much this preseason and coach Ken Whisenhunt clearly wants to see what the old man in action a little more with the first unit before he commits to naming him a starter (or not). We see Warner as a low-end No. 2 QB for now until he's officially named a starter, at which point he could vault all the way up to being a low-end No. 1.
News: After ESPN reported that the Cardinals were going to name Kurt Warner as their starting quarterback, the Arizona Republic reports that head coach Ken Whisenhunt is still evaluating both passers, and that Leinart is still starting. Both Leinart and Warner took first-team snaps in practice Monday, which has been the case all summer. "Contrary to everything (reported), nothing has changed," Whisenhunt said on the team's official web site. "We have not made a decision. We have not named Kurt the starting quarterback. It's unfortunate it was out there. It's unfortunate Matt has to see those things. But I understand the quarterback is the focus and people are quick to make judgments. It's a process. You don't (make a decision) based on one play or one half. ... But it'd be incorrect of me to ignore the fact Matt didn't play well (at Oakland)."
Analysis: Through three preseason games, Leinart has gone 18-of-31 passing for 177 yards (5.7 yards per attempt) with a touchdown and three INTs, all in the same game at Oakland. Warner has barely played this preseason, completing 8-of-13 passes for 94 yards (7.2 yards per attempt), but was a stud last year for Arizona throwing for 3,417 yards and 27 touchdowns over 11 starts. Moreover, Arizona's receivers played much better with Warner than they did Leinart, something that's continued on this preseason. For those of you who draft in the immediate future, neither quarterback is worth touting as a No. 1 option, but Warner seems like the best option the Cards have. Don't spend anything more than a middle-round pick on either guy until we get the official word out of Arizona.
News: ESPN reports that a team source says Kurt Warner will be named the Cardinals' starting quarterback, not Matt Leinart. This comes on the heels of Leinart's 4-of-12 passing performance for 24 yards and three interceptions (that's four completions and three turnovers) at Oakland in the third week of the preseason. Leinart finished with 18-of-31 passing for 177 yards (5.7 yards per attempt) with a touchdown and those three picks. Warner has barely played this preseason, completing 8-of-13 passes for 94 yards (7.2 yards per attempt), but was a stud last year for Arizona throwing for 3,417 yards and 27 touchdowns over 11 starts.
Analysis: Once we get confirmation of the news, possibly on Monday, you can expect Warner to shoot up our rankings. Not only does he have a terrific arm and strong command of the Cardinals' offense, but he's also playing in a contract year. Really, this couldn't have worked out better for Warner, or for receivers Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin, both of whom posted their best stats last season with Leinart on the bench. Assuming he's starting, Warner is a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB worth a middle-round pick while Leinart is relegated to being a late-round flier as a handcuff to those owners who pick Warner. When news develops on this story, we'll give it to you.
News:Kurt Warner started Saturday's preseason game against the Chiefs but it was projected starter Matt Leinart who once again looked like the better option. Warner finished 6-for-9 for 54 yards with no touchdowns while Leinart came in after and threw for 62 yards on 7-for-11 passing and a 14-yard TD pass to Steve Breaston. Neither quarterback was overly impressive, however.
Analysis: Leinart is starting to look the part of Arizona's full-time quarterback. Obviously, if Leinart progresses this preseason, he'd be a top-end No. 2 Fantasy QB worth a middle- to late-round pick. It is enticing to think about what he'll be capable of throwing to WRs Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. Warner is probably not worth a draft pick but could be solid insurance if something happens to Leinart.
News: The East Valley Tribune reports that Cardinals QB Matt Leinart will retain red-zone plays for at least the start of the season. Leinart gave way to Kurt Warner at the goal line last year. He also lost two-minute drill-type reps to Warner, and no word has been given on whether or not Leinart will get those reps. "I don't anticipate Matt having any problems down there," Cards coach Ken Whisenhunt said.
Analysis: Leinart is starting to look the part of Arizona's full-time quarterback, especially if he continues to play like he did in the preseason opener vs. New Orleans. Leinart was accurate in his short-area passing and is working on developing targets like WR Steve Breaston. Obviously, if Leinart progresses this preseason, he'd be a top-end No. 2 Fantasy WR worth a middle- to late-round pick. It is enticing to think about what he'll be capable of throwing to WRs Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin.
News: Arizona QB Matt Leinart looked very sharp in Thursday night's preseason opener against the Saints. Leinart played the Cardinals' first two series and finished 7-for-8 for 91 yards. He led the Cardinals on a long scoring drive in his second series and spread the ball around hitting seven different receivers, throwing many short-area passes, including a catch-and-run by Steve Breaston for 34 yards.
Analysis: Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt has Leinart as his starter and his performance Thursday went a long way to solidify his place with the first team. Since Leinart is the starter, consider him a No. 2 Fantasy option in 2008.
News: The Arizona Republic reports that Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt wasn't ready Tuesday to announce how he will use his quarterbacks Thursday night against New Orleans. Matt Leinart will start, and Kurt Warner is likely to get some work with the first-team offensive line, too. That means neither quarterback is likely to play beyond two series.
Analysis: Since Leinart is the starter, consider him a No. 2 Fantasy option in 2008. Warner could see time during the season as well in certain packages for the Cardinals, but he remains a No. 3 Fantasy option for now since he's not going to be playing every down.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart said he expects to play at least a couple of series Thursday against the Saints. But after missing parts of the past two seasons because of injuries, he also wants a chance to find a groove and prove he is a better, more capable quarterback than he has shown thus far. Leinart said he probably won't lobby for extra playing time. He is, however, looking forward to taking his first hit, in part to test the passing shoulder he injured a year ago. "My shoulder feels great and I've lifted heavier than I ever have, so I know it's strong," he said in the Arizona Republic. "But definitely getting that first hit out of the way will kind of put a little less stress on me."
Analysis: Count on Leinart being a No. 2 Fantasy option going into the season depending on what happens in his battle with Kurt Warner. Leinart has upside to be a decent Fantasy starter, but he also has a lot to prove, especially with Warner breathing down his neck.
News: The Arizona Cardinals went shopping for centers Friday after injuries hit two of the three listed at the position on the team's 80-man roster. Starter Al Johnson underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee earlier in the day. Coach Ken Whisenhunt said he hopes to have Johnson back by the season opener Sept. 7 at San Francisco. But reserve guard-center Scott Peters went down with a much more serious injury to his left knee. Peters, a third-year pro out of Arizona State, was carted off the field at practice on Thursday. The team placed Peters on injured reserve Friday, meaning he is out for the season. The injuries left second-year pro Lyle Sendlein as the only experienced center in camp.
Analysis: For Fantasy purposes, this affects the Cardinals possible starting QBs Matt Leinart and Kurt Warner. Leinart said switching centers does affect the quarterback. "You get used to a guy, whether it's Al or Lyle," Leinart said. "It's more mental or anything, but it's always nice to have the same guy." Whether or not this negatively affects the Cardinals QBs in the future, the focus should stay the battle between Warner and Leinart for now. Leinart has age and upside on his side and Warner has numbers and experience. Keep an eye on what develops during training camp to see if Leinart can hold off Warner. Whoever the starter is could change what happens with the rankings because Warner would be a low-end No. 1 option, while Leinart comes into 2008 as a No. 2 QB.
News:Matt Leinart knows how tough it will be to shake his perception as a party boy. In Arizona Cardinals training camp for his third NFL season, he seems to have given up worrying about it, preferring to simply hone in on football. "People can think what they want, but the important thing I've always said is what my family sees and knows and what my team and coaches know," he said. "My team and my coaches know that I work my butt off, that I'm in every day lifting weights, studying, even at home." By all accounts, the young quarterback's early days of this training camp have been impressive. "He's a lot more comfortable, a lot more familiar with the offense," quarterbacks coach Jeff Rutledge said. "When he gets in the huddle you can sense that confidence, you can sense that leadership. Warner believes he should be the starter, but that doesn't stop him from praising Leinart's growth. "I see a better understanding of what we're trying to do," Warner said. "This is the best I've seen him play since I've been around in three years."
Analysis: What a great quarterback battle this is shaping out to become. Leinart has age and upside on his side and Warner has numbers and experience. Keep an eye on what develops during training camp to see if Leinart can hold off Warner. Whoever the starter is could change what happens with the rankings because Warner would be a low-end No. 1 option, while Leinart comes into 2008 as a No. 2 QB.
News: The East Valley Tribune reports Cardinals QB Matt Leinart goes into training camp as the starter, but, "Kurt (Warner) is going to be there pushing him," coach Ken Whisenhunt said. "It's going to be a tough job for Matt to keep because Kurt played at a high level for us last year, and he's been doing a lot of work in the offseason. That's what you want, though."
Analysis: This will be one of the best quarterback battles to watch because Leinart has plenty of upside, but Warner was one of the best Fantasy options in 2008. Keep an eye on what develops during training camp to see if Leinart can hold off Warner. Whoever the starter is could change what happens with the rankings because Warner would be a low-end No. 1 option, while Leinart comes into 2008 as a No. 2 QB.
News: The Arizona Republic reports coach Ken Whisenhunt was asked if there are any plans to resurrect the dual-quarterback scheme from last year, when he'd alternate between Matt Leinart and veteran Kurt Warner, with Warner working goal-line and no-huddle situations. "I certainly wouldn't rule something like that out," Whisenhunt said. "Last year we did it because we felt it gave us the best chance to win. It wasn't really a thing about who did this better. Obviously, Kurt ran the no huddle better at that time. But Matt is much further along with it. He was very efficient again (Wednesday) when we ran the two-minute drill. I think that's going to play itself out. I wouldn't say we wouldn't do that, but I don't anticipate that being a necessity for us this year."
Analysis: Leinart will enter the season as the starter, but Warner is going to be a highly sought-after backup in all Fantasy leagues. Consider Leinart a No. 2 Fantasy option for now, but it might not be bad idea to draft Warner as a low-end No. 2 option as well.
News: The East Valley Tribune reports Cardinals QB Matt Leinart suggested Monday that personal matters hurt his play last year. In an apparent reference to a custody battle with the mother of his child that was settled early in training camp, Leinart said, "I had some personal stuff going in my life that was difficult. I wasn't used to being able to balance all of that. That's something I've learned over the past year. It's become a lot easier." Leinart also suggested that he was limited during the 2007 offseason because he hadn't fully recovered from a shoulder injury suffered in the next-to-last game of his rookie season in 2006. "Last summer and the offseason was difficult because I was still hurt from the year before." Leinart started the first five games of 2007 before he was sidelined with a season-ending collarbone injury.
Analysis: Leinart was named the starter heading into 2008, but Kurt Warner will also play a factor in Arizona. Keep an eye on what happens, but count on Leinart being a No. 2 Fantasy option even if he wins the job. He has upside to be a decent Fantasy starter, but he also has a lot to prove, especially with Warner breathing down his neck.
News: The Arizona Republic reports that Cardinals QB Kurt Warner took reps with the first team on a May 29 workout, a change from previous workouts. Coach Ken Whisenhunt downplayed the move, and it was suggested that it was just to give Warner a chance to work out with the starting lineup.
Analysis: Whisenhunt might have also been sending a message to Leinart, as if to say that he needs to stay up to par or else be on the bench. Leinart has ridiculous upside thanks to Arizona's incredible WR duo in Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin, but he lost playing time in spurts starting in Week 3 last season when he was healthy when the Cardinals inserted Kurt Warner to play when they were behind, costing Leinart reps and stats. Just because Leinart will be the Cards' starter doesn't mean that Warner won't make surprise guest appearances again in 2008 games. Because Leinart is expected to start and see more reps, he's the more reliable Fantasy option of the two, but he's no better than a No. 2 Fantasy QB next season so long as Warner is hanging over his head and taking reps. He's worth a late-round pick in all drafts this summer.
News: In an interview on SIRIUS NFL Radio, Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt not only reiterated that Matt Leinart was the starting QB for Arizona, but that Leinart has worked extremely hard and done well so far this offseason. Whisenhunt said that there has been a new level of commitment from Leinart, a change that the coach saw once Leinart broke his collarbone last season and spent time working out and watching film at the Cardinals' facility. "The light's starting to come on," Whisenhunt said of Leinart.
Analysis: Leinart has ridiculous upside thanks to his incredible WR duo in Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. But Leinart lost playing time in spurts starting in Week 3 last season when he was healthy when the Cardinals inserted Kurt Warner to play when they were behind, costing Leinart reps and stats. Just because Leinart will be the Cards' starter doesn't mean that Warner won't make surprise guest appearances again in 2008 games. Because Leinart is expected to start and see more reps, he's the more reliable Fantasy option of the two, but he's no better than a No. 2 Fantasy QB next season so long as Warner is hanging over his head and taking reps. He's worth a late-round pick in all drafts this summer.
News: AZCardinals.com reports that starting QB Matt Leinart's broken collarbone is still healing, but he expects to be ready for training camp this summer. Leinart is able to take part in the club's offseason workout program. "I wouldn't say I am 100 percent but I feel great," Leinart said. "I have been throwing 100 percent. I think with the bone still mending and healing, it will probably take all summer, but I am good to go. I don't have to take a hit until August so I still have four months to keep getting stronger."
Analysis: That broken collarbone ended Matt Leinart's sophomore season after five games, giving him 647 passing yards on 60-of-112 passing (53.6 pct.) with two touchdowns, four interceptions and 42 rush yards. Leinart lost playing time in spurts starting in Week 3 when he was healthy when the Cardinals inserted Kurt Warner to play when they were behind, costing Leinart reps and stats. Head coach Ken Whisenhunt has already stated that if healthy, Leinart will enter training camp as his starting quarterback. But that doesn't mean that Kurt Warner won't make surprise guest appearances again in 2008 games. Because Leinart is expected to start and see more reps, he's the more reliable Fantasy option of the two, but he's no better than a No. 2 Fantasy QB next season so long as Warner is hanging over his head and taking reps.
News: A broken collarbone ended Matt Leinart's sophomore season after five games, giving him 647 passing yards on 60-of-112 passing (53.6 pct.) with two touchdowns, four interceptions and 42 rush yards. Leinart lost playing time in spurts starting in Week 3 when he was healthy when the Cardinals inserted Kurt Warner to play when they were behind, costing Leinart reps and stats.
Analysis: Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt has already stated that if healthy, Leinart will enter training camp as his starting quarterback. But that doesn't mean that Kurt Warner won't make surprise guest appearances again in 2008 games. Because Leinart is expected to start and see more reps, he's the more reliable Fantasy option of the two, but he's no better than a No. 2 Fantasy QB next season so long as Warner is hanging over his head.
News: According to the Arizona Republic, Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt made it clear Sunday that Matt Leinart has the inside track to the starting QB for Arizona in 2008 ahead of Kurt Warner. "I don't believe in a player losing his job because of an injury, which is what happened with Matt," Whisenhunt said. That apparently doesn't mean that Leinart can't lose the job, however. "We have an offseason to evaluate that (position), and we will go back and look at the entire season and how Matt played and how Kurt played," Whisenhunt said. Warner, who is under contract for another season, smiled when asked if he hoped to be the starter in 2008. "Gee, I hope so," he said. "I don't have any anticipations as far as that's concerned. There's no doubt that Matt is the future. Hopefully, I made it a little bit harder on him."
Analysis: It would be hard to keep Warner on the bench after the way he finished 2007, with eight consecutive games with at least two touchdown passes. Still, the Cardinals are planning for the future, and Leinart has more upside than Warner. Continue to monitor what develops during the offseason because whoever starts for the Cardinals could have significant Fantasy value.
News: NFL Network reports that the Cardinals have placed QB Matt Leinart on Injured Reserve with a broken collarbone. He will not play again this season, giving Kurt Warner the starting job for the foreseeable future. He finished 2007 with 647 pass yards on 60-of-112 passing (53.3 pct.) with two touchdowns and four interceptions.
Analysis: Leinart can safely be released from all seasonal Fantasy leagues at this time. For those that own him in keeper leagues, keep him on board since he should compete for the starting job in 2008.
News: Arizona Cardinals quarterback Matt Leinart fractured his left collarbone while getting sacked late in the first half of Sunday's 34-31 victory over the St. Louis Rams. Coach Ken Whisenhunt said Leinart, the team's first-round pick in 2006, would be out indefinitely. "We don't know how long it's going to be," Whisenhunt said. "But it's going to be for an extended period of time."
Analysis: Leinart was standing on the sideline in T-shirt, shorts and his left arm in a sling in the second half. He was 7-for-13 passing for 100 yards and an interception. Now, the starting job is fully in the hands of Kurt Warner. Keep Leinart reserved only in keeper leagues.
News: Arizona Cardinals quarterback Matt Leinart injured his left collarbone while getting sacked late in the first half, leaving for the locker room. Leinart was hurt on a 9-yard sack by blitzing St. Louis Rams linebacker Will Witherspoon, knocking the Cardinals back to their 7. He was replaced on a third-and-19 play by Kurt Warner, who earlier in the second half led the Cardinals to their first touchdown.
Analysis: Leinart, the Cardinals' first-round pick in 2006, walked off the field with his left arm held close to his chest. He was 7-for-13 for 100 yards and an interception. His stock in Fantasy leagues is dropping each week and we expect Leinart to be on the injury report for Week 6 vs. Carolina. With Warner playing well, we wouldn't be surprised to see Leinart benched completely anyway. Stay away from the younger QB for now.
News: The Cardinals plan is for QB Matt Leinart to continue splitting snaps with Kurt Warner. Even though the matchup favors the Cardinals, keep Leinart reserved until something definitive happens with the Arizona quarterbacks, especially since Warner is having more success this year.
Analysis: Running back platoons are one thing, but quarterback platoons are just plain brutal. You could start Leinart this week and see him benched early in the game and come out of the contest with negative points! Leave him on your bench in Week 5 when Arizona visits St. Louis.
News: The Arizona Republic reports that Cardinals QB Matt Leinart has stepped back from his comments earlier this week when he said he wanted the team to "ride or die" with him and said he merely wants to play and be as good of a player as he can be. Coach Ken Whisenhunt wasn't bothered by the comments and instead is focused on what Leinart did late in Week 4. "The way he responded in the fourth quarter on that drive, which essentially put the game away for us, is more what I'm going to look at," Whisenhunt said. "His play is improving. It was very evident on that last drive."
Analysis: This week, Leinart plays at St. Louis (Kurt Warner's old team). In one start last year at the Rams, he threw for 186 yards and a touchdown. With the uncertainty of how much playing time he'll get from week to week, Leinart is at best a No. 2 Fantasy QB, even though the Rams have allowed six passing touchdowns this season.
News: Yahoo Sports reports that Cardinals QB Matt Leinart wants to be the team's one and only passer and not share his role with anyone. But Leinart admitted that he's on good terms with Kurt Warner, who has taken on a role as a "relief pitcher" type of passer who has seen playing time (and good stats) in each of Arizona's last two games. "I just want them to ride or die with me," Leinart said of his team. "If I'm the franchise quarterback, play me and let me stumble, because I'll fight through it, and that will help me and our team in the long run. I know coaches want to win now, and I guess they have their reasons. But I don't understand it, and this switching back and forth is almost worse than getting benched."
Analysis: Leinart's limited playing time is cramping his stats and leaving him out of Fantasy plans. Until we get an understanding of the Arizona offense, Leinart is a No. 2 Fantasy QB regardless of the matchup. At the very least, we know that he's starting, but that about all we know.
News: As predicted, the Cardinals rotated Kurt Warner and Matt Leinart at quarterback Week 4 against the Steelers, and Warner again posted the better stats. Leinart started the game and played until just under five minutes in the second quarter, when Warner replaced him. Leinart didn't return until midway through the fourth quarter, but he finished out the game. Warner went 14-for-21 for 132 yards and a touchdown while Leinart went 7-for-14 for 93 yards and rushed three times for nine yards. Neither quarterback threw an interception, but Warner lost a fumble.
Analysis: What a mess. Looks like the Cardinals take their two-quarterback system seriously, meaning neither Warner nor Leinart makes a reliable Fantasy starter. For a while, the Cardinals looked like they'd stick with Warner for good, but the fact that Leinart returned late with the game on the line indicated otherwise. The Cardinals really want to use different quarterbacks in different packages, so leave both Warner and Leinart reserved for Week 5 at the Rams. Maybe one of the two will succumb to injury and make everyone's life a whole lot easier.
News: CBS Sports' Charlie Casserly reports Sunday that if Cardinals QB Matt Leinart doesn't play well vs. the Steelers in Week 4, the team will bench him for Kurt Warner, and that Warner will be the unquestioned starter until he plays poorly.
Analysis: Leinart still gets the start vs. Pittsburgh in Week 4, but he's not a wise option with the club eyeing Warner to take over under center. Be careful using him this week, and make a move now to get Warner if you can.
News: Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt might know Week 4 opponent, the Pittsburgh Steelers, well after serving as an assistant coach from 2001-06. But Whisenhunt also might have ruined the confidence of his young quarterback in Week 4. Leinart was benched against Baltimore for Kurt Warner, who apparently runs the no-huddle offense better than Leinart.
Analysis: If Leinart is sharing snaps and facing the Steelers, who are No. 5 in pass defense and No. 1 in sacks, that's a bad combination. Whisenhunt said Leinart would start Week 4 against the Steelers, but the no-huddle system would remain a part of the offense, with Warner at the controls. All things considered, we'd stay away from Leinart if at all possible this week.
News: Matt Leinart isn't talking like a quarterback in danger of losing his job. He insists he understands the two-quarterback system Arizona coach Ken Whisenhunt is using and will work hard to show he deserves to stay in his starting role. "I know this is my team," Leinart said after practice Wednesday. "I'm the quarterback of this team. I'm competitive. I'm not going to just throw in the towel and give in to what everyone's saying." Leinart was pulled from the game and watched from the sidelines last Sunday in Baltimore while backup Kurt Warner, in a no-huddle offense, threw two fourth-quarter touchdown passes. The Cardinals rallied from a 23-6 deficit to tie it at 23-23 before a last-second field goal gave the Ravens the victory.
Analysis: Whisenhunt said Leinart would start Week 4 against the Steelers, but the no-huddle system would remain a part of the offense, with Warner at the controls. That led to widespread speculation Leinart, in his second NFL season, was in danger of being replaced altogether. Whisenhunt said that's not the case, but Leinart understands he can take nothing for granted. "It's a job and we're all competitive," Leinart said. "If anything, I'm pushed to be a better player. I'm pushed to be the player that I know I can be, that I know I will be one day." It is probably best to keep Leinart reserved in Fantasy leagues for Week 4.
News: According to the Arizona Republic, Matt Leinart will remain the starter Sunday against the Steelers. Kurt Warner, who entered the Ravens' game in Week 3 to run the no-huddle offense in the second quarter and eventually took over for Leinart in the second half, almost surely will see some action if, for no other reason, to try to confuse the Steelers' defense with a different look.
Analysis: Keep Leinart and Warner reserved for Week 4 against the Steelers because they will steal passes from each other and limit their value. If one is expected to play the entire game, then consider that QB a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Arizona QB Matt Leinart started Sunday against Baltimore but was replaced by Kurt Warner during the game. Leinart struggled with 9-of-20 passing for 53 yards and no touchdowns. He also had one carry for 2 yards.
Analysis: It is unknown what will happen in Week 4 between Warner (258 yards passing and two touchdowns) and Leinart. Regardless, Leinart should not be started against the Steelers in a difficult matchup. As of now, it appears Leinart will remain the starter. "We were down three scores and we knew that was the best way to move the ball quickly," Arizona coach Whisenhunt said. "It wasn't a situation where Matt lost a job. It was Kurt did better with this package."
News: After taking down a win with some nice stats last week, Matt Leinart and the Cardinals will travel to Baltimore to face the Ravens. The matchup isn't a pretty one -- Baltimore owns the fourth-best total defense in the NFL. One helpful piece of information is that Leinart's coach is Ken Whisenhunt, who is familiar with these Ravens from his days as the Steelers' offensive coordinator. However, the Ravens have dominated Whisenhunt-coached QBs in their last four meetings with Pittsburgh, allowing four passing touchdowns while grabbing six interceptions and holding Steelers QBs to 230 or fewer pass yards in all four games.
Analysis: Do yourself a favor and sit Leinart this week. Josh McCown, Derek Anderson, Jason Campbell and Jeff Garcia should all outperform Leinart, so look to grab one of them off the waiver wire and start one of them instead. Next week, the Steelers come to Arizona, and Leinart could have a lot of motivation to do well there thanks to his head coach.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart was 23-for-37 passing in Week 2 vs. Seattle. He had a TD pass and was intercepted once while throwing for 299 yards.
Analysis: In leagues where you get a bonus at 300 yards, you wish someone would have given just a bit more effort to squeeze out an extra yard. No use crying over that now. Leinart posted solid numbers in Week 2, but will have a difficult matchup in Week 3 at Baltimore. Consider him a low-end Fantasy starter or a solid No. 2 for that matchup.
News: Matt Leinart beat the Seahawks in his first start against them, completing 21-of-34 passes for 232 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. In each of Arizona's last six games against Seattle, the Cards' QB have thrown for at least 200 yards.
Analysis: Leinart was a trendy preseason pick to have a solid 2007 season, but his Week 1 performance left a lot to be desired. He will look to bounce back this week against a Seattle defense that stifled the Buccaneers, so start him at your own risk.
News: Matt Leinart was 14-for-28 for 102 yards with two interceptions in Monday's Week 1 opener at San Francisco in a meeting between two long-struggling NFC West clubs with cautiously high hopes for the season. "I'm very disappointed in myself, the way I played as the leader of this football team," Leinart said. "It starts with me getting the ball to the right guy and making the plays. I didn't do that. That falls on me. We're not going to win football games if I play like that at quarterback."
Analysis: Leinart will look for better results in Week 2 against the Seahawks, a team which limited the Buccaneers to just six points in their opening game win on Sunday. Keep Leinart reserved in all Fantasy leagues if you have better alternatives.
News: Even though they added cornerback Nate Clements this offseason, the San Francisco 49ers, Arizona's Week 1 opponent Monday night, were No. 26 in pass defense last year, allowing 223 yards per game and 25 total touchdowns.
Analysis: In last year's opener against the Niners, QB Kurt Warner started for the Cardinals and passed for 301 yards and three touchdowns. Current Cardinals starter Matt Leinart, in his lone appearance against San Francisco last year, had 162 yards and a touchdown before leaving the game early with an injury. With his cast of receivers, Leinart should approach Warner's numbers from last year, even on the road, making him a No. 1 fantasy quarterback for Week 1.
News: Matt Leinart's faulty footwork continues to irk coach Ken Whisenhunt, who believes Leinart is not always getting proper depth on his pass drops, according to The Sports Xchange. "We jumped on him but he responded instead of being in the tank," Whisenhunt said. "It's a constant battle. He's been in some bad habits that are hard to break and he's working hard to get out of those habits."
Analysis: Having taken that Ball Room Dance class his senior year at USC, you would think the last thing he would need to work on is his footwork. Leinart is entering his first full season as a starter and there are still things he will need to work on, but that doesn't mean he's a bad Fantasy quarterback. We view Leinart as a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy QB for 2007, one who should be paired with a low-end No. 1 QB such as Tony Romo or Philip Rivers.
News: Arizona's Matt Leinart had another strong showing Saturday against the Chargers, completing 10-of-16 passes for 196 yards and a touchdown. He did not play after halftime. "I feel good but I have to continue to get better and continue to get in my playbook," Leinart said. "I have too many mental errors, and that is just something that I have to continue to get better at."
Analysis: A run-first offense may not be what you'd expect from the Cardinals considering their receiving corps, but it doesn't mean that Leinart won't be passing much in 2007. We view Leinart as a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy QB for 2007, one who should be paired with a low-end No. 1 QB such as Tony Romo or Philip Rivers.
News: Matt Schaub looked at ease and Matt Leinart responded to a week of "tough love"' from his coach. The starting quarterbacks were terrific in the preseason game between the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals. Leinart, who coincidentally wears No. 7 for Arizona (0-2), went 7-for-7 for 70 yards, including a 5-yard touchdown pass to Edgerrin James. "He got a little tough love this week," head coach Ken Whisenhunt said of his second-year quarterback. "He was told to pick up his game, and he responded. That's all you can expect from a young quarterback. He told me the day before the game that 'I'm going to go 10-for-10 coach.' He wrote it down on a piece of paper and gave it to me."
Analysis: A run-first offense may not be what you'd expect from the Cardinals considering their receiving corps, but it doesn't mean that Leinart won't be passing much in 2007. We view Leinart as a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy QB for 2007, one who should be paired with a low-end No. 1 QB such as Tony Romo or Philip Rivers.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Cardinals QB Matt Leinart was a huge disappointment in the preseason opener, consistently overthrowing open receivers in his three series of work -- the first two three-and-outs. Leinart went five of 11 for 50 yards. "We'll clean it up," Leinart said. "I'm not worried about my throws. Mentally I just want to be sharp."
Analysis: A run-first offense may not be what you'd expect from the Cardinals considering their receiving corps, but it doesn't mean that Leinart won't be passing much in 2007. We view Leinart as a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy QB for 2007, one who should be paired with a low-end No. 1 QB such as Tony Romo or Philip Rivers.
News: New Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt played quarterback Matt Leinart only one quarter and running back Edgerrin James just two series during Saturday's preseason game against the Raiders. Leinart finished 5-for-11 for 50 yards and James carried twice for 3 yards. "We stumbled a bit but I thought we did all right," Leinart said. "We showed some fight to get back up. but we've got to learn to close. We've just got to keep getting better. It's the preseason and we're learning a new offense."
Analysis: A run-first offense may not be what you'd expect from the Cardinals considering their receiving corps, but it doesn't mean that Leinart won't be passing much in 2007. We view Leinart as a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy QB for 2007, one who should be paired with a low-end No. 1 QB such as Tony Romo or Philip Rivers.
News: Here's some good news for Matt Leinart: First-round draft pick Levi Brown agreed to terms with the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday, six days after the team reported to training camp. The six-year contract could be worth up to $62 million, just over $18 million of it guaranteed. Brown is expected to start at right tackle for Arizona, which is Leinart's blindside because Leinart is a lefty.
Analysis: Brown's arrival should only help Leinart (and the rest of the Cardinals). A run-first offense may not be what you'd expect from the Cardinals considering their receiving corps, but it doesn't mean that Leinart won't be passing much in 2007. We view Leinart as a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy QB for 2007, one who should be paired with a low-end No. 1 QB such as Tony Romo or Philip Rivers.
News: While others are anticipating a big jump for Matt Leinart this year, the quarterback shrugs off such predictions. The Cardinals went through an up-tempo workout in shoulder pads, dodging rain and avoiding nearby lightning in the first workout under new coach Ken Whisenhunt. Whisenhunt is installing an offense that will emphasize the run on a team that ranked last in rushing a year ago. That should mean fewer pass attempts, which is fine with Leinart. Leinart seems to have caught on to the way Whisenhunt wants the game played. "He looks a lot more comfortable now than when we first got here, and that's normal," the coach said. "There's some things we worked on with his drop, which is letting his shoulders be a little bit more square when he's set. He threw the ball very well today."
Analysis: Leinart has also said he's already noted better cohesiveness on the offensive line under new assistant coach Russ Grimm. A run-first offense may not be what you'd expect from the Cardinals considering their receiving corps, but it doesn't mean that Leinart won't be passing much in 2007. We view Leinart as a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy QB for 2007, one who should be paired with a low-end No. 1 QB such as Tony Romo or Philip Rivers.
News: Arizona QB Matt Leinart’s throwing during offseason workouts has gotten better as the weeks have passed. Coming off a left (throwing) shoulder injury late in the 2006 season, Leinart looked like he needed time to find a rhythm again. Coach Ken Whisenhunt said he has seen Leinart’s confidence in his shoulder increase and that it has been easy to see the difference. Leinart said that more than anything, he needed to develop a trust in where his receivers would be in the new offense. As that has improved, so has Leinart’s accuracy. One fact Leinart will not dispute is that he feels stronger and faster going through an entire offseason conditioning program. Leinart is up to 235 pounds (from 230) and believes he is physically better equipped for the season.
Analysis: Leinart has tremendous potential heading into 2007 and the ability to be a No. 1 QB. He should probably be paired with a veteran backup, but draft Leinart and reap the benefits of a solid QB.
News: Matt Leinart says he sees more togetherness from the Arizona Cardinals and likes what he sees from their new, run-first offense. "We want to establish the run and be physical, but we're also going to utilize what we've got on the outside -- that's two of the best receivers in the NFL." The offensive line has been rebuilt and there is competition at most positions. "We've got eight or nine quality guys that can play," Leinart said. "That's something you need from the offensive line. ... Now they know what they're doing every single play, and they're going to be very cohesive, I think."
Analysis: A run-first offense may not be what you'd expect from the Cardinals, but it doesn't mean that he won't be passing in 2007. We view Leinart as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB for 2007, but one who should be paired with a top-notch No. 2 QB just in case he comes out of the gate slowly.
News: QB Matt Leinart entered his second season as an NFL quarterback far more comfortable than he was a year ago and welcomed the opportunity to play for new coach Ken Whisenhunt, who replaced the fired Dennis Green. "I think he's going to bring a different attitude to this football team," Leinart said, "an attitude that's been missing for a while. I think he's going to make us mentally tougher. We're going to compete, we're going to be fast, we're going to be scoring points, we're going to be sustaining long drives. We're going to be doing all the things we need to do to win football games."
Analysis: Expect Leinart to thrive under Whisenhunt and take the next step in his career. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option in 2007 but make sure you have a capable backup just in case he
News: Cardinals rookie QB Matt Leinart saw action in 12 games this season, starting 11, completing 214-of-377 passes for 2,547 yards with 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He added 49 rush yards with two fumbles and two rushing TDs. He sprained his left (throwing) shoulder in Week 16 and did not finish the season, but is expected to be fine for 2007. Only two of his games saw him throw for over 250 yards, with one of them good for 405 yards.
Analysis: Consider 2006 as a year Leinart used to get acclimated to the NFL game. With offensive-minded coach Ken Whisenhunt coming to Arizona, Leinart should be involved in an offense that takes advantage of the team's incredible receiving threats. We view Leinart as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB for 2007, but one who should be paired with a top-notch No. 2 QB just in case he comes out of the gate slowly.
News: The Arizona Cardinals declared 3QB Shane Boyd, OG Elton Brown, OT Brandon Gorin, LB Gerald Hayes (ribs), QB Matt Leinart (shoulder), DT Jonathan Lewis, FB A.J. Schable and WR Todd Watkins inactive for Week 17 at San Diego.
Analysis: With the exception of Matt Leinart, who is a star Fantasy player and big-time keeper for the 2007 season, none of the other players are worthy of consideration heading into Draft Day 2007 in Fantasy leagues.
News: Kurt Warner came on in the second quarter of Week 16 at San Francisco in place of an injured Matt Leinart (shoulder) and finished the game. Leinart left the game and finished 9-of-13 for 162 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions. He will be out for the season due to his injury.
Analysis: Leinart is out for the season due to a sprained throwing shoulder, so Kurt Warner will start at Week 17 at San Diego. He remains a top-notch keeper option in all Fantasy leagues, but drop him in weekly formats.
News: Matt Leinart is on the sidelines for the Cardinals in Week 16 at San Francisco. He appeared to be rubbing his left upper arm or shoulder and Kurt Warner has replaced him.
Analysis: When we get more specifics and his status for the remainder of the game, we will pass it along to you. So far in the game, he has completed 9-of-13 for 162 yards and a touchdown to Larry Fitzgerald.
News: Arizona QB Matt Leinart was 20-of-35 passing for 214 yards and two interceptions against Denver. He also had three carries for 23 yards.
Analysis: Consider Leinart a No. 2 option for Week 16 against San Francisco.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart completed 21-of-34 passes in Week 14 vs. Seattle. He finished with 232 passing yards and two scores, but was intercepted once.
Analysis: Leinart isn't yet an elite Fantasy QB, but you could do worse in leagues of 10 or more teams for Week 15 vs. Denver.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart completed 15-of-24 passes for 186 yards and one touchdown in a Week 13 win over the Rams.
Analysis: Leinart didn't have great Fantasy numbers, but he didn't have to do a whole lot with the running game moving the ball up and down the field for the Cards. The Cardinals play the Seahawks in Week 14, so consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart, a rookie chosen 10th overall in the first round, completed 31 of 51 passes for 405 passing yards, all career-highs, in last week's comeback bid at Minnesota that fell just short. Leinart's yards set an NFL rookie record, surpassing Jake Plummer's 388. Leinart has passed for 200-plus yards in six of seven starts -- but the team is 1-6 with him in the lineup. Leinart's total at Minnesota marked just the eighth 400-yard passing day in Cardinals franchise history and was the first since Jake Plummer threw for 465 yards vs. Dallas on Nov. 15, 1998. Leinart became the Cardinals' first rookie QB to get a win as a starter in nine years, since Jake Plummer, when the team ended an eight-game skid vs. Detroit on Nov. 19. Leinart is on pace to eclipse the franchise rookie passing record 2,203 yards by Plummer in 1997. Leinart is the only QB in NFL history to pass for two touchdowns in the first quarter in each of his first two starts.
Analysis: Consider Leinart a No. 1 option for Week 13 against the Rams.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart completed 31-of-51 passes in Week 12 at Minnesota, including a 9-yard TD pass to Anquan Boldin in a spirited fourth-quarter comeback attempt. He was intercepted twice, including on a last-second Hail Mary attempt.
Analysis: Leinart was able to rack up some yardage in the fourth quarter as the team tried to come back from a big margin. His first career 400-yard passing game could be a sign of things to come and Fantasy owners should consider him a nice start for Week 13 at St. Louis.
News: Cardinals rookie QB Matt Leinart completed 19-of-29 passes in Week 11 against the Lions for 233 yards and two touchdowns -- one passing and one rushing.
Analysis: Leinart managed the game well and got the win for the Cardinals. It seems the Cardinals are limiting Leinart looking for the big play and just having him move the ball downfield in short chunks of yards. Still, he didn't throw an interception. Consider him a No. 2 QB for Week 12 at Minnesota.
News: Arizona QB Matt Leinart has looked very much the rookie the past three games -- coinciding with coach Dennis Green firing offensive coordinator Keith Rowen and replacing him with QB coach Mike Kruczek. In his first two starts, Leinart completed 60 percent of his passes. In his past three, his completion percentage is below 50 and he has five interceptions. "I just can't seem to get it going right now," Leinart said. "You have to keep your head up, you got to keep working, you got to get better. This is a whole learning experience for me. Anyone can say what they want about rookie quarterbacks. I'm my own worst critic. I feel like I should be playing better."
Analysis: Leinart could be considered a decent sleeper for Week 11 against the Lions, but he is too unreliable to use on a weekly basis right now.
News: Arizona QB Matt Leinart was 20-of-38 passing for 216 yards and two interceptions against Dallas. He also had four carries for 18 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Leinart should be considered a No. 2 QB for Week 11 against Detroit.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart has completed just 40 percent of his passes in his past two starts. He's had several passes dropped, but he also has not been sharp. He'll have to be on his A-game to beat the Cowboys in Week 10.
Analysis: Leinart's focus has vanished since the disappointing loss vs. Chicago in Week 6. He is not a recommended Fantasy play vs. Dallas. Try and start someone else for this game.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart, a rookie chosen 10th overall in the first round, is 0-4 as the starter but is the only QB in NFL history to pass for two touchdowns in the first quarter in each of his first two starts. The Cardinals have not had a rookie QB get a win as the starter in nine years, since Jake Plummer in 1997.
Analysis: Leinart should be able to get his first career win before the season ends and does have some favorable matchups ahead. The Cardinals are on a bye in Week 9, but return to action in Week 10 against the Cowboys. After that they have games against the Lions, Vikings, Rams, Seahawks, Broncos, 49ers and Chargers. Leinart could definitely post some serious numbers especially with WR Larry Fitzgerald due back from injury in the coming weeks. Consider Leinart a solid No. 2 Fantasy QB the rest of the season.
News: Arizona QB Matt Leinart was 14-of-35 passing for 157 yards with one touchdown and one interception against Green Bay. He also had one carry for 2 yards.
Analysis: Leinart should have done better against the worst pass defense in the NFL. The Cardinals are on a bye in Week 9, so keep Leinart reserved.
News: Matt Leinart was a proud father, showing off baby pictures to teammates, as he returned to Arizona Cardinals practice Thursday after a day off to attend the birth of his son in southern California. The rookie quarterback was with former girlfriend Brynn Cameron, who gave birth to the couple's son, Cole, on Tuesday night, then was given Wednesday off by Cardinals coach Dennis Green to remain with them a bit longer. "It was a great experience," said Leinart, who provided a rare glimpse into the private life that he normally guards closely. "The best thing is we brought a healthy boy into this world. Now my next job is to be a great dad."
Analysis: Despite Leinart missing a practice, he is expected to start on Sunday. Leinart has a good matchup in Week 8 against Green Bay. Consider him a low-end No. 1 quarterback in deep leagues or a good bye-week replacement.
News: Arizona QB Matt Leinart finally played like a rookie against Oakland and he knows he has to play at a high level for this team to win. Leinart completed just 13-of-32 passes for 203 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions. "We can come up with all these excuses every week, but the bottom line is we're not winning football games and, as a quarterback, I have to take blame as a leader of this football team," Leinart said. "We have to get something going. I don't know what it is. We can't seem to find the answer."
Analysis: Leinart has a good matchup in Week 8 against Green Bay. Consider him a low-end No. 1 quarterback in deep leagues or a good bye-week replacement.
News: Matt Leinart completed just 13-of-32 passes for 203 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions in Week 7 at Oakland in a loss.
Analysis: Leinart has still yet to win a start and the Cardinals might be shell-shocked after blowing a 20-0 lead in Week 6 against the Bears. He is only worth considering as bye-week replacement in most formats for Week 8 at Green Bay.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart, a rookie chosen 10th overall in the first round, has been nominated for NFL Rookie of the Week in each of his first two starts after becoming the only QB in NFL history to pass for two touchdowns in the first quarter in each of his first two starts.
Analysis: Leinart has been impressive since taking over the reigns in Arizona. Not many people gave him a fighting chance against the Bears, but he held his own and showed he could be a great QB in the NFL. Leinart will look for his first win as a starter in Week 7 against the Raiders. Consider him a solid bye-week replacement, and you might expect around 250 yards and two TDs in the game.
News: Matt Leinart completed 24-of-42 passes for 232 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions in Week 6 against the Bears. He nearly led the Cardinals to an improbable win against the unbeaten Bears, but the team could just not get it done. "If [Leinart] moves slightly to the left or right, he buys time and can get the ball off. It's a game of inches. He's pretty good. He's not throwing like a rookie quarterback," defensive end Alex Brown said of Leinart to the Chicago Tribune.
Analysis: Leinart did everything he could do to get the win, but the Cardinals special teams did the offense no favors and the Bears defense had a pair of touchdowns on fumble recoveries. He'll look to bounce back in Week 7 at Oakland -- consider him a solid bye-week replacement, and expect around 250 yards and two TDs in the game.
News: According to media reports in Arizona, Cardinals coach Dennis Green says the team will be without star WR Larry Fitzgerald for two to five weeks because of a hamstring injury. Green says Fitzgerald either has a severe right hamstring pull or a slight tear. The Pro Bowl receiver was injured late in the first quarter of Sunday's 23-to-20 loss to Kansas City. He finished with two catches for 15 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: This is awful for Fitzgerald owners. He has suffered so far this season with the Cardinals quarterback situation but was still considered a No. 1 WR. Keep him reserved because of the injury and hope for a speedy return. His absence will hurt rookie quarterback Matt Leinart, but WR Anquan Boldin and the Cardinals No. 3 WR, Bryant Johnson, should benefit with Fitzgerald's absence.
News: Cardinals rookie QB Matt Leinart looked like a poised veteran early in his first career start in Week 5 against the Chiefs. Leinart threw touchdown passes of 5 and 49 yards before the six-minute mark of the first quarter getting the Cardinals out to an early 14-0 lead. However, he could not lead the Cardinals on another touchdown drive and Arizona lost the game 23-20. Leinart finished 22-of-35 passing for 253 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. The interception was costly as it came late in the fourth quarter, deep in Arizona territory and lead to the eventual game winning score.
Analysis: Leinart did not play all that bad in his first start. Early on the Chiefs defense was feeling out Leinart, which led to the touchdown passes. But as the game went on Leinart looked more like a rookie QB and had a hard time moving the ball. If he thought the Chiefs were a tough defense, he better not look now. The Cardinals host the Bears, one of the top defenses in the league, in Week 6. It is recommended you do not play Leinart for Fantasy purposes.
News: The starting call has come earlier than expected for Matt Leinart, who went through his first practice as an NFL first-string quarterback on Wednesday. Leinart capped the session with a little extra work on the field with Edgerrin James, then pronounced himself confident for his first start for Arizona on Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs, although he acknowledged, "They're probably licking their chops with a rookie quarterback coming in." With costly mistakes plaguing Kurt Warner and the sputtering offense, coach Dennis Green decided to switch to Leinart, who was supposed to spend the entire season learning as a backup. "This was not our intention. It's not what we wanted," Green said, "but we're 1-3 and just so many turnovers have brought it on."
Analysis: The Kansas City defense looked awfully impressive in Week 4 vs. San Francisco and they had a second-year quarterback (Alex Smith) at the helm. Leinart might have the swagger, but that doesn't erase the fact he will be making his first NFL start and the Chiefs will be fired up. Leinart will blossom into a solid Fantasy QB down the road, just don't expect miracles in Week 5.
News: Cardinals coach Dennis Green announced after Sunday's loss at Atlanta that rookie Matt Leinart will start next week against Kansas City. Kurt Warner was removed in the fourth quarter with the Cardinals trailing be a hefty margin. He had just 128 yards passing on 11-for-20 with an interception and no touchdowns. He fumbled twice in the game, losing one. Leinart came in for him and quickly lost a fumble of his own. Leinart finished with 49 yards on 5-for-8 passing. He also threw an interception on top of the fumble and finished with negative seven yards rushing.
Analysis: Warner looked as lost as he ever has on an NFL football field and he shouldn't be considered a reliable Fantasy QB anymore. Leinart didn't look much better, though. The Cards will face Kansas City in Week 5 after their defense looked very impressive in Week 4 vs. San Francisco. Consider Leinart little more than a bye-week replacement option.
News: Kurt Warner was removed in the fourth quarter in Week 4 at Atlanta wit the Cardinals trailing be a hefty margin. He had just 128 yards passing on 11-for-20 with an interception and no touchdowns. He fumbled twice in the game, losing one. Matt Leinart came in for him and quickly lost a fumble of his own. Leinart finished with 49 yards on 5-for-8 passing. He also threw an interception on top of the fumble and finished with negative seven yards rushing.
Analysis: Warner looked as lost as he ever has on an NFL football field and he shouldn't be considered a reliable Fantasy QB anymore. Leinart didn't help his case to start much, though. The Cards will face Kansas City in Week 5 after their defense looked very impressive in Week 4 vs. San Francisco. Monitor the QB situation this week.
News: Cardinals rookie backup QB Matt Leinart has yet to see action in a game, but he was sharp in preseason appearances despite his having missed the first couple of weeks of camp during contract negotiations. Another game like the last one from starter Kurt Warner and coach Dennis Green's patience undoubtedly will be exhausted. That puts the onus on Warner to come through against the Falcons, a team to which he has never lost as a starter. The road might not be the best place to break in Leinart, and Green was careful to avoid a nasty situation similar to the one in which Warner found himself with the New York Giants two years ago, when he was benched at midseason in favor of rookie Eli Manning.
Analysis: Leinart should either be reserved in keeper leagues or dropped in seasonal leagues unless an owner of Kurt Warner wants to back up their primary passer with his backup (which isn't a bad idea). But as for Week 4, Leinart shouldn't be part of any active lineup at this time.
News: Cardinals coach Dennis Green said in a statement that Kurt Warner, not rookie Matt Leinart, will be his starting QB for the time being. "Generally talking about the starting lineup is not something we do," said Green. "However, given the speculation that was out there we want to make it clear. We're disappointed after last week, but we still expect to be a playoff football team and we fully expect Kurt Warner to be the quarterback that leads us. That has not changed."
Analysis: Leinart should either be reserved in keeper leagues or dropped in seasonal leagues unless an owner of Kurt Warner wants to back up their primary passer with his backup (which isn't a bad idea). But as for Week 4, Leinart shouldn't be part of any active lineup at this time.
News: According to published reports, Matt Leinart will start in Week 4 at Atlanta for the Arizona Cardinals. Apparently, head coach Dennis Green will give the rookie his first-career NFL start after being non-commital earlier in the day at a press conference.
Analysis: Leinart looked awfully good during the preseason, but he'll get his first taste of the NFL against a solid Atlanta Falcons defense. Scoop him up if he is available in your league, but keep him on reserve and see how he handles himself before considering him as a starting Fantasy QB.
News: Arizona coach Dennis Green declined to say Monday whether he would stay with Kurt Warner at quarterback or replace him with rookie Matt Leinart for Week 4 at Atlanta. ``I don't talk personnel on Monday,'' Green said. ``We'll start looking at things and have a staff meeting and take it from there.'' Green's noncommittal comments came in the wake of Warner's awful performance in Sunday's 16-14 home loss to the St. Louis Rams. The 35-year-old quarterback was intercepted three times - once with the team at the Rams 1-yard line and another at the St. Louis 14. To cap it off, Warner fumbled a snap at the Rams 18 with 1:46 to play as Arizona was positioning itself for a winning field goal. When asked if he remained committed to Warner, Green said, ``You know what? I've not thought about who the starting players are right now. ... Normally personnel is something we do on Tuesday.'' The remarks made it clear Green was considering benching Warner, who has fumbled five times, losing two of them, and thrown four interceptions in the last two games.
Analysis: This is terrible news for Warner owners, who have been disappointed with his play following his Week 1 performance. While it is doubtful Green would bench Warner, monitor the situation throughout the week. The Cardinals play Atlanta in Week 4, and Warner would certainly get plenty of opportunities to throw. As long as he starts, consider him a low-end No. 1 Fantasy quarterback. If he gets benched, reserve him immediately. As for Leinart, he would be considered a No. 2 QB for Week 4 if he starts.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart (shoulder) is in uniform today as the backup QB for Arizona vs. San Francisco.
Analysis: Leinart isn't expected to play until starter Kurt Warner goes down with an injury (almost a near certainty). Fantasy owners should keep Leinart stashed on rosters for now.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart (shoulder) is probable for Week 1 vs. the 49ers. He did practice on Wednesday.
Analysis: Leinart isn't expected to play until starter Kurt Warner goes down with an injury (almost a near certainty). Fantasy owners should keep Leinart stashed on rosters for now.
News: Matt Leinart's right shoulder injury is not serious and Arizona coach Dennis Green said Friday that the rookie quarterback might be available for the regular season opener Sept. 10. "It's good news," Green said of the MRI exam that came back negative. Leinart is slated to back up starter Kurt Warner.
Analysis: The rookie QB had a phenomenal preseason and would be an instant Fantasy starting QB because of the top-notch WRs who he would be tossing to when Kurt Warner gets hurt. Give Leinart high-priority in all keeper leagues, but consider him nothing more than a flier or Warner insurance in annual formats.
News: Arizona rookie QB Matt Leinart left Thursday night's preseason game against Denver with a sprained right shoulder. An MRI is planned for Friday, but Leinart said the injury was no big deal. He said the shoulder popped out of its socket when he was hit, then back into place as he jogged off the field. "It was kind of a fluke thing. It just got out of socket a little bit and I was running off it was kind of hanging there, but I popped it back in and it was fine," he said. "I could have gone back in and played if I had to." Since the injury is not his throwing shoulder, Leinart could still serve as the No. 2 QB in Week 1 vs. San Francisco.
Analysis: Earlier in the game, Leinart directed an 87-yard touchdown drive, throwing 17 yards to Troy Walters for the score. The rookie QB has had a phenomenal preseason and can be an instant Fantasy starting QB because of the top-notch WRs who he would be tossing to when Kurt Warner gets hurt. Give Leinart high-priority in all keeper leagues, but consider him nothing more than a flier or Warner insurance in the late rounds of annual leagues.
News: Matt Leinart and Jay Cutler know their day will come in the NFL. For now, a solid preseason finale performance will have to do. Only a shoulder injury to Leinart dampened a showdown between two of the league's quarterbacks of the future in Denver's 29-23 preseason victory over the Cardinals on Thursday night. The left-handed Arizona rookie went out with a sprained right shoulder when he was sacked late in the third quarter. An MRI is planned for Friday, but Leinart said the injury was no big deal. He said the shoulder popped out of its socket when he was hit, then back into place as he jogged off the field. Leinart was sacked by Patrick Chukwurah with four minutes left in the third quarter, and shook his shoulder in pain as he went to the huddle. He stayed in for one more play, completing an 8-yard pass before leaving. "It was kind of a fluke thing. It just got out of socket a little bit and I was running off it was kind of hanging there, but I popped it back in and it was fine," he said. "I could have gone back in and played if I had to." Before that, the game was a showcase for Leinart, the No. 10 pick in this year's draft, and Denver's Cutler, the No. 11 pick.
Analysis: Leinart, who came on in relief of starter Kurt Warner early in the second quarter, completed 10 of 15 passes for 125 yards and a touchdown. Leinart is expected to enter the preseason as Arizona's backup quarterback behind Warner but ahead of John Navarre. He has looked good so far, showing poise in the pocket and some fast decision-making skills. His arm still needs a little work, but that's negated if he's playing with ballhawks like Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. Leinart is a solid first-round pick in rookie-only Fantasy drafts and a middle- to late-round pick in keeper formats, but only worth a look in deeper seasonal leagues by owners who take Warner and want to have insurance for the veteran, injury-prone signal caller
News: Southern California basketball player Brynn Cameron will miss the upcoming season because she is expecting a baby with Arizona Cardinals quarterback Matt Leinart, according to her father. Cameron is due to deliver a boy in November, Stan Cameron told the Ventura County Star for Wednesday's editions. Asked Wednesday about Cameron, Leinart said, "I'm not going to comment." In the past, he has declined comment on other personal information. Cameron and Leinart reportedly broke up last year but still talk frequently, according to Stan Cameron, who spoke to the newspaper from out of state. "Brynn does not want to get married," he said. "She wants to finish school and let Matt do his thing and then figure it out."
Analysis: This is irrelevant for Fantasy Football. Leinart is expected to enter the preseason as Arizona's backup quarterback behind Warner but ahead of John Navarre. He has looked good so far, showing poise in the pocket and some fast decision-making skills. His arm still needs a little work, but that's negated if he's playing with ballhawks like Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. Leinart is a solid first-round pick in rookie-only Fantasy drafts and a middle- to late-round pick in keeper formats, but only worth a look in deeper seasonal leagues by owners who take Warner and want to have insurance for the veteran, injury-prone signal caller.
News: One more preseason game and Matt Leinart goes from playing to watching from the sideline as understudy to Cardinals starter Kurt Warner. Not since he was a freshman third-stringer behind Carson Palmer at USC has Leinart found himself out of a starting lineup. It's a role he understands and readily accepts, though. "It's weird but it's also fun," Leinart said. "I'm a rookie. We've all got to make our strides in the league. We all start from the bottom, you know. I have a great quarterback in front of me, a great guy to learn from, so I'm not complaining about my situation one bit." Leinart probably will play the second and third quarters of the team's final preseason game Thursday night against Denver.
Analysis: Leinart is expected to enter the preseason as Arizona's backup quarterback behind Warner but ahead of John Navarre. He has looked good so far, showing poise in the pocket and some fast decision-making skills. His arm still needs a little work, but that's negated if he's playing with ballhawks like Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. Leinart is a solid first-round pick in rookie-only Fantasy drafts and a middle- to late-round pick in keeper formats, but only worth a look in deeper seasonal leagues by owners who take Warner and want to have insurance for the veteran, injury-prone signal caller.
News: Rookie QB Matt Leinart showed why the Arizona Cardinals selected him with the 10th pick in the draft as the Arizona Cardinals beat the Chicago Bears 23-16 in Friday's preseason game. He took over for Kurt Warner in the second quarter and completed 15-of-21 passes for 144 yards and a touchdown. "I feel comfortable with the offense for the most part right now," Leinart said. "So they called a lot of stuff, and I just went out there and tried to execute."
Analysis: He entered the game with 5:13 left in the second quarter and completed 12 consecutive passes at one point, while leading the Cardinals to a field goal at the end of the first half and a touchdown early in the third quarter. Leinart is a solid first-round pick in rookie-only Fantasy drafts and keeper formats, but only worth a look in deeper seasonal leagues by owners who take Warner and want to have insurance for Leinart.
News: Matt Leinart made his NFL debut in Saturday's preseason game at New England and he was greeted rather rudely. He was 4-of-11 for 45 yards, but he was also sacked twice. Oddly enough, he was the leading rusher for the Cardinals, carrying twice for 29 yards.
Analysis: Leinart is battling John Navarre for the backup job to starter Kurt Warner. Navarre was just 1-of-8 for 10 yards and an interception, so it should not be hard for the former Heisman Trophy winner to supplant him. Leinart is a solid first-round pick in rookie-only Fantasy drafts and keeper formats, but only worth a look in deeper seasonal leagues by owners who take Warner and want to have insurance for Leinart.
News: A relieved and ever-smiling Matt Leinart joined the Arizona Cardinals training camp on Aug. 15, and quickly learned he would be playing the second quarter at New England in the team's second preseason game. "My dream has been to play in the NFL," he said. "What better way to kick off an NFL career -- whether it's one play or a couple of series -- than against the Patriots." Cards head coach Dennis Green has yet to determine how much Leinart will play in the game, but was confident the left-handed rookie would make up for the time he missed. Leinart took part in all of the team's workouts this spring and summer.
Analysis: Leinart is locked in a competition for the No. 2 quarterback spot with John Navarre, who threw two interceptions in the team's 21-13 victory over Pittsburgh on Saturday. Knowing Navarre's history, Leinart should school him pretty quickly and take over as Kurt Warner's backup. The former USC stud is a solid first-round pick in rookie-only drafts and keeper formats, but only worth a look in deeper seasonal leagues by owners who take Warner and want to have insurance for Leinart.
News: A relieved and ever-smiling Matt Leinart joined the Arizona Cardinals training camp on Tuesday, and quickly learned he would be playing at New England in four days. "My dream has been to play in the NFL," he said. "What better way to kick off an NFL career - whether it's one play or a couple of series - than against the Patriots."
Analysis: Leinart is expected to battle John Navarre for the backup job to starter Kurt Warner. Navarre has not looked very good in the preseason, so expect Leinart to move into the role before the regular season begins. He is a solid first-round pick in rookie-only leagues and keeper formats, but not worth a look in seasonal leagues at this point.
News: The Arizona Cardinals have signed Leinart to a six-year contract on Monday night, as he is the last first-round draft pick to agree to terms with his team.
Analysis: Leinart is expected to battle John Navarre for the backup job to starter Kurt Warner. Navarre has not looked very good in the preseason, so expect Leinart to move into the role before the regular season begins. He is a solid first-round pick in rookie-only leagues and keeper formats, but not worth a look in seasonal leagues at this point.
News: Matt Leinart's holdout from Cardinals training camp continues, a contract standoff that has coach Dennis Green shaking his head in disbelief. "I'm very surprised," Green said. "I just didn't think you'd have holdouts that would last this long the way contracts are done right now." Leinart's camp believes the Cardinals got a gift when he unexpectedly fell to their No. 10 spot in the draft. His status as the second quarterback chosen, and a potential franchise player, warrants a better deal, the agent and his client believe. "We had 10th pick money and everything that goes along with it," Green said. "Everybody's got to get used to being the 10th pick."
Analysis: The longer this holdout drags out, the harder it will be for Leinart to get a grasp of the Arizona offense. He's expected to battle Jon Navarre for the right to backup Kurt Warner, which means the he could step on the field at any point in 2006. He has great keeper league value, but it's hard envisioning him having much of an impact this season barring a sudden turn of events.
News: Matt Leinart did not report to training camp Sunday as contract negotiations cooled between the Arizona Cardinals and their first-round draft pick. Even as he vowed to stay out of the negotiations, coach Dennis Green blamed Leinart's camp for the failure to reach agreement. "We have an excellent deal on the table," said Green, who did not provide details.
Analysis: The longer this holdout drags out, the harder it will be for Leinart to get a grasp of the Arizona offense. He's expected to battle Jon Navarre for the right to backup Kurt Warner, which means the he could step on the field at any point in 2006.
News: The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports Matt Leinart and Paris Hilton have gone public with their current romance.
Analysis: Forget about Fantasy Football, Leinart now has a fantasy with the provocative Hilton that all men would love.
News: The Arizona Cardinals selected USC QB Matt Leinart with the No. 10 overall selection in the 2006 NFL Draft. He fell to the Cards after the Tennessee Titans, N.Y. Jets and Oakland Raiders passed on him.
Analysis: Kurt Warner remains the starter for head coach Dennis Green, but Leinart is the favorite to be No. 2 and could come in if Warner is injured or struggles. While his value in seasonal drafts is limited, Leinart is a solid keeper in an offense that boasts incredible weapons in WRs Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin and RB Edgerrin James.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Southern Cal QB Matt Leinart has hired Creative Artists Agency to handle his NFL contract negotiations. "After lengthy discussions with my family, I felt it was in the best interest for my professional football career to have all of my representation combined," Leinart said in a statement. "My good friend and agent, Chuck Price, and Tom Condon of CAA Football will oversee my professional representation."
Analysis: CAA already represented Leinart in his off-the-field business deals and now takes over all of his negotiations after he fired Leigh Steinberg. The fact that Leinart has expressed interest in being an actor could hurt his value, since some teams might question his committment to pro football. We still expect him to be the first quarterback selected in the draft, however.
News: Several news outlets have reported that USC QB Matt Leinart will visit with the Saints in the coming days, and he reported in an online draft diary that he will meet with the Raiders as well.
Analysis: Leinart's name keeps being linked to the Titans since he has a relationship with offensive coordinator Norm Chow, but the Saints may be trying to entice a team like the Jets or Raiders to trade with them to get Leinart with the No. 2 overall pick in the NFL Draft. Leinart isn't expected to come in and play right away no matter where he goes, but he should be a quality NFL quarterback worth considering in all keeper leagues.
News: According to reports, USC QB Matt Leinart has fired agent Leigh Steinberg. He must wait five days before signing with a new agent, although Tom Condon seems to be where he is going.
Analysis: Leinart's draft stock is all over the place, seen as high as No. 2 and as low as No. 9. If he ends up with a team that doesn't already have a bonafide starter in place, he could see significant playing time in 2006. His value is best in keeper leagues since 2007 should be when he finally plays regularly.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports the New York Jets plan to work out Matt Leinart the week of April 17. The team holds the fourth overall selection in April's Draft.
Analysis: Reports indicate the Jets won't move up to land Leinart. In fact, some consider OT D'Brickashaw Ferguson or DE Mario Williams the favorites to wear green and white next season.
