News: On Wednesday. the Jaguars signed RB Kolby Smith, who was released by the Broncos three weeks ago.
Analysis: Smith looked to have a chance to make the Broncos earlier in camp, but Denver let him go when they signed LenDale White. He will compete for a backup spot behind Maurice Jones-Drew in Jacksonville and remains not worth worrying about in Fantasy play.
News: The Denver Broncos have signed free agent running LenDale White and released RB Kolby Smith. Smith had been running with the first team in the absence of Knowshon Moreno and Correll Buckhalter, both of whom were injured on the first day of training camp.
Analysis: Smith's fortunes sure changed quickly, going from the first team to the street. He's averaged 3.3 yards a carry in his three-year NFL career with three touchdowns, so he'll likely end up on another squad. But until he lands on a new team and gets regular playing time, he's not going to produce enough stats to warrant Fantasy use.
News: With Knowshon Moreno (hamstring) and Correll Buckhalter (back) out, the Broncos are going with Kolby Smith and Lance Ball at running back. So far, coach Josh McDaniels hasn't exactly been impressed. "Up and down," McDaniels said of the running backs so far. "There's some good, and then there's some learning experiences that they're going through. To me, I am treating them all like rookies – that group there – because even though some of them have been in the league for a little while, to learn our system and then to go out there and play fast in it and physical and do the things mentally we're asking of them, it's not easy. They are going through some ups and downs. The good thing is they are getting a lot of reps, and I think with every rep, hopefully, they are learning something and then we can get better each practice."
Analysis: We expect Moreno and Buckhalter to be ready for the start of the season, but Smith is worth keeping an eye on in case both are limited. Smith was a reserve for Kansas City prior to this year and had some decent moments, so he could be worth a late-round pick in deeper formats. Ball has minimal Fantasy value unless he found himself starting with Moreno, Buckhalter and Smith out.
News: Denver RB Kolby Smith was signed to add depth at the running back position. Yet, with injuries to Correll Buckhalter and Knowshon Moreno, he's now the No. 1 back. "It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Smith said of his unanticipated climb up the depth chart. His first exposure to the playbook came at a three-day crash course for rookies and other newcomers before training camp.
Analysis: Buckhalter is expected to be out a week and Moreno could be out three weeks with his hamstring injury. Both are expected to be back 100 percent for Week 1 against Jacksonville. That being said, Smith will likely get reps with the first team during training camp, but see little action come the regular season. He's not worth drafting unless the other backs suffer a setback before the season begins.
News: The Broncos have added depth at running back after being assigned Kolby Smith off waivers from the Chiefs. The 5-foot-11, 219-pound Smith was waived by Kansas City on Monday after three seasons with the Chiefs. He rushed for 540 yards and three touchdowns in 27 games. Smith joins a stable of Broncos tailbacks that also includes Knowshon Moreno, Correll Buckhalter and J.J. Arrington.
Analysis: Smith will likely battle for a roster spot with the Broncos while purging all the information he has on the Chiefs offense. He's not worth drafting until he makes strides up the Broncos' depth chart.
News: The Chiefs announced Monday that the club has waived RB Kolby Smith. Smith played in 27 games (nine starts) in three seasons with Kansas City (2007-09), rushing 162 times for 540 yards with three TDs and catching 34 passes for 209 yards. He saw action in four contests for the Chiefs in 2009.
Analysis: Smith became expendable when the team signed Thomas Jones this offseason and drafted Dexter McCluster. Smith will try to latch on with a new team, but he has minimal Fantasy value. Ignore him in all leagues on Draft Day.
News: The Chiefs have re-signed RB Kolby Smith, giving him another chance to get healthy and compete for playing time this summer. The Kansas City Star speculates that Smith could be used to aid Jamaal Charles in the rushing duties this season. Smith barely played in 2009, starting the year on the PUP list with a knee injury and ending the year on injured reserve with an ankle injury.
Analysis: We'd be surprised to see Smith with more than a handful of carries per game. Keep him out of Fantasy draft plans at this point -- let's see him healthy first.
News: The Chiefs have placed RB Kolby Smith on season-ending IR with an ankle injury.
Analysis: Smith finishes his 2009 season with 15 carries for 33 yards in four games after missing the first eight games with a knee injury. He might have a shot at the starting job in Kansas City next season if he re-signs, but isn't worth holding on to in keeper leagues.
News: The Chiefs have ruled out RB Kolby Smith for Week 13 vs. Denver because of an ankle injury. Dantrell Savage is doubtful with an ankle injury, so the Chiefs have a depth problem in their backfield. That leaves only starter Jamaal Charles at the halfback position. FB Tim Castille would become the No. 2 if Smith and Savage can't play.
Analysis: Charles has really been carrying the backfield rotation since Larry Johnson left town. Smith and Savage have been getting just a few token touches. Neither player was going to be a good start in Week 13, so continue to keep Savage and Smith out of lineups. Castille doesn't get that much Fantasy value, even if he is second on the depth chart.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith got one run for 1 yard and one catch for 5 yards on Sunday in a Week 12 loss to the Chargers.
Analysis: Smith is not getting an increase in touches with Larry Johnson having moved on as Jamaal Charles continues to shoulder the load. He is at best a handcuff option for Charles at this point in the season. The Chiefs take on Denver in Week 13.
News: Kansas City RB Kolby Smith (ankle) has been listed as probable for the team's Week 12 game at San Diego.
Analysis: Smith has a total of 13 carries and 29 yards in two games for the Chiefs this season. He has had a chance to get some touches since Larry Johnson was released but has not been advantageous so far. He is not a recommended option for Week 12 at San Diego.
News: Kansas City RB Kolby Smith (ankle) was able to practice in full on Wednesday as the team prepares for its Week 12 game at San Diego. He is considered probable for the game. Smith injured the ankle Week 11 against Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Smith has a total of 13 carries and 29 yards in two games for the Chiefs this season. He has a chance to get some touches since Larry Johnson was released but has not been advantageous so far. He is not a recommended option for Week 12 at San Diego.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith had a poor showing on Sunday in a Week 10 win over the Raiders. He had nine carries in the game, gaining a total of 12 yards.
Analysis: Smith has a total of 13 carries and 29 yards in two games for the Chiefs this season. He has a chance to get some touches since Larry Johnson was released but has not been advantageous so far. He is not a recommended option for Week 11 against a tough Pittsburgh run defense.
News: With the release of RB Larry Johnson, Kolby Smith is expected to continue seeing carries in the Chiefs' offense, including at Oakland in Week 10. Smith got in his first game of the year last week at Jacksonville but only had four carries and a catch. He did work in the red zone but came away without meaningful stats and touches. While the Raiders' run defense is dreadful, so is the Chiefs' offensive line, which could make things hard for Smith to work effectively.
Analysis: Because Smith's role is still fairly undefined, he's not worth a lot in Week 10. Consider him nothing more than a low-end reserve RB for now.
News: Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles started in place of suspended running back Larry Johnson in Week 9 at Jacksonville. He led the team with just six carries for 36 yards. He also caught three pass for 19 yards. Kolby Smith caught four passes for 17 yards and also caught a pass for four yards. Third string RB Dantrell SavageAnalysis: Charles may have blown his big chance to be a big factor down the stretch for the Chiefs, especially with Johnson possibly returning in Week 10 at Oakland. That situation is far from resolved, however, and Fantasy owners should monitor it over the course of the week to see who gets the start against a weak Raiders defense. Whoever does could be worth taking a chance on as a No. 3 RB or flex. Smith and Savage appear to be long shots at this point.
News: The Kansas City Chiefs announced on Saturday that the club has activated RB Kolby Smith from the Reserve/Physically-Unable-to-Perform List. The Chiefs released WR Bobby Engram on Saturday.
Analysis: Smith is definitely worth monitoring to see how the Chiefs use him Week 9 at Jacksonville. He might be worth adding off waivers right this instant in deeper Fantasy leagues but you should probably wait elsewhere. Engram does not need to be on rosters right now. He played in five games for Kansas City in 2009, catching five passes for 61 yards.
News: The Chiefs have two more weeks to make a decision on RB Kolby Smith, who is currently on the physically unable to perform list, but head coach Todd Haley spoke highly of him Tuesday and is rooting for him to get healthy enough to contribute this season. Smith is trying to come back from a knee injury suffered last season. "I think he'd be a big asset for us," Haley said Tuesday.
Analysis: Smith is worth monitoring over the next couple of weeks, and would be worth adding to rosters once he's activated from the PUP list -- especially if the Chiefs suspend or release RB Larry Johnson. We'll keep you posted on Smith's status in the coming weeks.
News: Chiefs running back Kolby Smith was placed on the physically unable to perform list, ending his chances of playing in any of the team's games over the first six weeks. He will be eligible to come off the PUP list starting in Week 7. Smith has missed all of training camp and the preseason with what is believed to be a knee injury.
Analysis: When healthy, Smith serves as a good backup to Larry Johnson, but he's not healthy now and won't be for a while. Owners are advised to keep Smith off rosters for now, considering him later this season if he is removed from the PUP list.
News: The Kansas City Star reports that Chiefs running back Kolby Smith will miss the rest of the season with a knee injury, according to head coach Herman Edwards. Smith was carted off the field with a sprained knee in the second quarter Week 9 against the Buccaneers. He started in place of Larry Johnson, benched for disciplinary problems. Smith had 10 carries for 46 yards and a one-yard touchdown before leaving.
Analysis: With Johnson's suspension stretching into Week 10, look for the Chiefs to lean on rookie Jamaal Charles, Dantrell Savage and Jackie Battle to team up and give Kansas City a semblance of a running game. Smith is no longer worth owning in seasonal Fantasy play since he'll miss the rest of the year.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith was carted off the field with a sprained knee Week 9 in the second quarter against the Buccaneers. Smith started in place of Larry Johnson, benched for disciplinary problems. Smith had 10 carries for 46 yards and a one-yard touchdown before leaving.
Analysis: Smith was easily having his best game since taking over for Johnson in Week 7. This injury sounds like it might sideline him for a few games, though, considering he had to be carted off the field. The Chiefs visit the Chargers in Week 10, but even if Smith can play, he would serve as no more than No. 3 Fantasy RB.
News: Chiefs running back Larry Johnson was suspended for Week 10 of the NFL season by commissioner Roger Goodell for violating the league's personal conduct policy. Johnson already was deactivated the last two weeks by Kansas City and also won't play this Sunday against Tampa Bay. He will miss the Chiefs' game at San Diego next weekend under the NFL's suspension. Johnson is not permitted on the team's premises until Nov. 10. With Jammal Charles nursing an ankle injury, RB Kolby Smith is likely to start Week 9 against Tampa Bay and Dantrell Savage will serve as his backup.
Analysis: Smith has started eight games the last two seasons while Johnson has been injured or deactivated. He has just 21 carries for 35 yards in his last two games and hasn't been very productive. He will face a very good Tampa defense Week 9, so consider Smith more of a No. 3 Fantasy RB or 'flex' option Week 9.
News: Kansas City RBs Jamaal Charles and Kolby Smith split carries in Week 8 in place of suspended RB Larry Johnson against the Jets. Charles finished with five rushes for 45 yards to lead the Chiefs and Smith had 11 carries for just 15 yards. Smith added two catches for 15 more yards and Charles had just one catch for four yards.
Analysis: Charles, the rookie, was obviously the better option in Week 8. That said, neither was very impressive against the Jets very solid rush defense. Things don't get much easier against Tampa Bay in Week 9 so we wouldn't recommend starting either back against the Bucs. There is also the possibility that Johnson returns in Week 9.
News: Chiefs coach Herman Edwards announced Wednesday that running back Larry Johnson would be benched, not suspended, for a second straight week. Johnson did not play last week against Tennessee as punishment for violating team rules. Since then, it's been disclosed that police and the NFL are investigating a report that Johnson spat several times on a woman at a Kansas City nightclub. In place of Johnson in Week 8, Kolby Smith and Jamaal Charles will split the workload at the Jets, who rank fourth in the NFL in rushing yards allowed.
Analysis: Consider Smith and Charles nothing more than low-end desperation options at running back, particularly since they're unlikely to produce no better than 50 total yards against a talented Jets run defense. Tack on the fact that Tyler Thigpen will be Kansas City's starting quarterback for the foreseeable future, and there's even less to like about Smith and Charles' chances to do well. Exhaust other options before going with either running back in Week 8.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith, starting in place of the suspended Larry Johnson, gained only 20 yards on 10 carries Week 7 against the Titans. He also caught two passes for five yards.
Analysis: Smith might have fared better against a worse run defense, but he won't get a chance to prove it since Johnson figures to come back Week 8 against the Jets. Smith proved himself the clear backup over Jamaal Charles, however, so if nothing else, Johnson owners know now to own Smith as a handcuff. For the most part, though, he can remain on waivers.
News: Chiefs RB Larry Johnson will sit out Kansas City's game against Tennessee for violating team rules, a potentially crippling blow for a struggling young offense facing the NFL's last unbeaten team. Coach Herm Edwards refused to specify what team rules the two-time Pro Bowler broke. But Edwards did say his decision had nothing to do with the charge of simple assault filed against Johnson this week. Johnson, 28, has rushed for 417 yards and three touchdowns as the rookie-laden Chiefs try to find their way through the first year of a top-to-bottom rebuilding project. Against Denver on Sept. 28, the only victory the Chiefs (1-4) have, he gained 198 yards. The Titans (5-0) come in with a defense ranked fifth overall and are giving up only 95.8 yards rushing. "Any time you're missing a good player, I think it always hurts you," Edwards said. "But you see other players elevate their game, too."
Analysis: Kolby Smith, who had 407 yards on 112 carries last year when Johnson missed the last eight games with a foot injury, will probably start. Also certain to see plenty of action will be rookie Jamaal Charles, a third-round pick out of Texas who has carried 21 times for 98 yards. "I'm not going to give out the plan of what we're trying to do," Edwards said. "They (Tennessee) are good enough without knowing what we're trying to do. Now they know Larry's not playing. That's already a bit of a disadvantage. But that's OK." Don't plan on using Charles or Smith against the Titans unless you are in dire need of help at RB. The Titans are among the league leaders in run defense and should be able to limit either RB this week.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith had one catch for five yards in a Week 5 loss to the Panthers and didn't attempt a rushing play.
Analysis: Smith continues to see about 1-2 touches per game as the Chiefs' third-string running back. Until that changes, he has no Fantasy value when the Chiefs return to action Week 7 against the Titans after they come off their bye.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith took the ball twice on Sunday against the Broncos for a total of nine yards. His carries came early in the game.
Analysis: Smith has pretty much been relegated to third on the running back depth chart since Jamaal Charles arrived via the draft. He is only getting a few touches per game and is not a recommended Fantasy option heading into Week 5 at the Panthers.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith rushed one time for seven yards and had one catch for eight yards during a Week 3 loss to the Falcons. Smith now has two carries for 10 yards and five catches for 27 yards this season.
Analysis: Smith has pretty much been relegated to third on the running back depth chart since Jamaal Charles arrived via the draft. He is only getting a few touches per game and is not a recommended Fantasy option heading into Week 4 against the Broncos.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith had just one carry for three yards during a Week 2 loss to the Raiders. He also had four catches for 19 yards.
Analysis: Smith was shutout Week 1 against the Patriots, but got some action Week 2 when Larry Johnson was ineffective. Smith is battling for backup carries with rookie Jamaal Charles and is not a recommended Fantasy option heading into Week 3 against the Falcons.
News: Kansas City RB Kolby Smith, who is battling rookie Jamaal Charles to be Larry Johnson’s backup, played well Saturday at Miami with Charles (shoulder) out. Smith had four carries for 10 yards and four catches for 38 yards in limited work. Through three preseason games, Smith has eight carries for 47 yards and six catches for 48 yards,
Analysis: Smith played well last year when Johnson was out with a broken foot. He has more experience than Charles and would likely be the starter if Johnson got hurt again, although both he and Charles would play. Smith is the better handcuff option to Johnson in standard leagues.
News: Yahoo! Sports reports that Chiefs head coach Herman Edwards still sees RB Larry Johnson as his featured back, but he refuses to let him hoard the rushing workload. Edwards says that second-year RB Kolby Smith and rookie RB Jamaal Charles will factor into Kansas City's running game. Edwards outlined reps for Charles, but not for Smith.
Analysis: Smith is worth drafting in most Fantasy leagues as a handcuff to Johnson, but so will Charles. Perhaps Smith is nothing more than an insurance policy for LJ on the Chiefs' roster, and that's exactly what he is to Fantasy owners as well. Look for Smith to get extended carries early in the season to keep Johnson fresh. He's nothing more than a low-end reserve this summer.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith played well in place of an injured Larry Johnson in 2007. With Johnson sidelined with a foot injury, Smith started six games as a rookie. He finished the season with 407 yards rushing and two touchdowns and caught 22 passes for 148 yards. With Johnson expected to make a full recovery in 2008, look for Smith to return as the backup.
Analysis: Smith is worth drafting in most Fantasy leagues as a handcuff to Johnson, who will come into the 2008 season still slowed with the injury. Look for Smith to get extended carries early in the season to keep Johnson fresh. For now, consider Smith a solid No. 3 Fantasy option.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith was unable to get through the first quarter in Week 17 at the Jets. He left the field on a cart with an ankle injury and did not return.
Analysis: Smith had just two carries before getting hurt. He filled in nicely for injured starter Larry Johnson, but will return to a backup role in 2008.
News: When the Chiefs (Herman Edwards' current team) play at the Jets (Herman Edwards' old team) in Week 17, expect Kolby Smith to see a lot of playing time. Not only do the Chiefs want to continue seeing what they have in Smith, but they also are expected to run early and often against the Jets' 29th-ranked run defense.
Analysis: Smith has a shot at a solid game against Gang Green. Expect a hard-fought game, and expect Smith to produce like a No. 2 Fantasy RB in Week 17.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith rushed 17 times for 60 yards in Week 16 at Detroit. He also caught seven passes for 55 yards.
Analysis: Smith continues to start in place of the injured Larry Johnson. Johnson practiced this week, but couldn't make it through the week. Fantasy owners will want to monitor this situation through the week, but Smith will likely be the starter in Week 17 at the Jets. He's useful as a No. 2 Fantasy option for that matchup.
News: After practicing, then suffering a setback, the Chiefs listed RB Larry Johnson (foot) as out for Week 16 at Detroit. He will not play, but Kolby Smith will get the start and many of the carries against a soft Lions run defense.
Analysis: Keep LJ reserved (or cut him if you're in the finals of your league). Smith, however, will fit in nicely as a No. 2 Fantasy RB in Week 16 for owners. He should post a good game statistically.
News: Chiefs RB Larry Johnson received a heavier workload in practice Wednesday than he has since the injury in early November. Johnson shared the first-team snaps with Kolby Smith and appeared as if he was preparing to play Sunday against the Lions in Detroit. But about halfway through practice, according to the Kansas City Star, Johnson headed for the sideline and spoke with one of the trainers, careful the whole time not to put weight on the injured foot. He then left the practice field and didn't return. "I don't know if it was a setback," coach Herm Edwards said. "We'll find out (Thursday) and the next day. He got a little sore. I've got to see where that's at. He's limited right now and I've got him questionable."
Analysis: Smith, who had to share the first-team snaps with Johnson for the first time since he became a starter last month, said he was planning on sharing them with Johnson on Sunday, too. What's clear is this: The Chiefs hadn't ruled Johnson out, as they had done by this time every week since the injury. He was also attending the game-planning meetings, which he had been skipping since the injury. Continue to monitor Johnson's status before setting your lineup, and the same goes with Smith. If Johnson plays at Detroit, consider him a No. 2 Fantasy option. If Smith is the starter, he should be considered a No. 2 RB, but if Smith comes off the bench then he's a No. 3 option.
News: Chiefs RB Larry Johnson practiced on a limited basis on Wednesday in hopes of playing at the Lions in Week 16. Chiefs coach Herman Edwards said Johnson did a little more than usual in practice and had a couple of reps with the first-team offense. "He was still limited," coach Herman Edwards said. "He got a little sore, so we'll see where he's at." When asked what Johnson's status was for Sunday, Edwards said, "I've got to see where that's at, but he's just limited right now. I'd say that he's questionable, probably."
Analysis: When asked later on if there was any benefit to playing Johnson in a meaningless game, Edwards sidestepped the question and said he'll do what's best for the player. If that's the case, then Johnson shouldn't play and instead should get ready for 2008. But if he wants to win a game, then Johnson should play. If he does play, then he'd be a No. 2 Fantasy RB at Detroit. If not, then rookie Kolby Smith would start and be a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB. Stay tuned, but expect Smith to play.
News: Chiefs coach Herm Edwards said Tuesday that running back Larry Johnson, sidelined the past six games with a foot injury, might get on the field this week at Detroit. Johnson has been slowly doing more and more and could actually go through a full practice this week. "We're going to try to limit him some and see what he can do in practice, see where he's at," Edwards said.
Analysis: Johnson's return would spell bad news for Kolby Smith and his Fantasy owners, and at the worst time too. The Lions are awful against the run (LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles chewed them up last week), so whomever is the primary rusher for the Chiefs is expected to do well. We'll keep a close eye on the goings-on in Kansas City and deliver the news when we get it.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith rushed 18 time for 82 yards in Week 15 vs. Tennessee. He also caught three passes for 23 yards.
Analysis: Smith is getting most of the carries in place of the injured Larry Johnson, who is unlikely to play the rest of the season. That makes Smith worthy of a look as a No. 2 Fantasy running back for Weeks 16 and 17. In Week 17, the Chiefs travel to Detroit.
News: For the second straight day Friday, Chiefs RB Kolby Smith practiced in full despite battling a knee injury. The team lists him as probable for Week 15 against the Titans.
Analysis: The Broncos held Smith to just 12 yards on 13 carries in Week 14 after he had two successful starts in place of the injured Larry Johnson. The Titans actually have a pretty good defense, making Smith no better than a No. 3 Fantasy RB or 'flex' option this week.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith (knee) returned to a full practice routine Thursday after running through limited reps Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 15 vs. Tennessee. Chiefs head coach Herm Edwards said earlier in the week that Smith will likely be questionable for the game and possibly a game-time decision. Rookie Gilbert Harris will get the nod to start if Smith can't.
Analysis: Smith was held to just 12 yards on 13 carries against the Broncos in Week 14 after two successful starts in place of the injured Larry Johnson. The Titans actually have a pretty good defense and Smith should be considered no better than a No. 3 Fantasy RB or 'flex' option Week 15, if healthy.
News: While talking to the media on Monday, Chiefs coach Herm Edwards said that RB Kolby Smith hurt his knee in Week 14 at Denver and is questionable for Week 15 against the Chiefs. If Smith can't go, rookie RB/FB Gilbert Harris would get the nod, but Edwards quipped "we might have to play with an empty backfield." Smith, however, says he will be OK. "I’ll be ready to go on Sunday," said Smith. "However many times they want to give it to me, I’ll take it."
Analysis: Even if he did play, Smith would not be a recommended option against a rebounding Titans defense, especially with the Chiefs' O-line banged up. And if Smith isn't a recommended option, neither is Gilbert Harris. It's stunning to read this in Fantasy Football, but steer clear of all Chiefs running backs in Week 15.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith left Kansas City's Week 14 game at Denver during the first quarter with an ankle injury. He was replaced by Gilbert Harris, but returned on the next Chiefs drive. He finished the game with just 12 yards on 13 carries.
Analysis: Smith's longest run of the game gave him seven of those yards. The Broncos defense stifled the Chiefs' running game and the fact that they went up by a lot early made Kansas City abandon the running game. As long as Smith remains the primary back, though, he's useful in most Fantasy formats as at least a low-end No. 2 RB option or 'flex' for Week 15 vs. Tennessee. That is a tough matchup, though, especially of Albert Haynesworth is healthy.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith left Kansas City's Week 14 game at Denver during the first quarter with an ankle injury. He was replaced by Gilbert Harris, but returned on the next Chiefs drive.
Analysis: Smith's owners who had relied upon the rookie RB in the last couple of weeks to get them into a playoff spot must be sweating bullets today. We will update his status as the game progresses.
News: Chiefs coach Herman Edwards said Wednesday that if the team had to play today, its starting offensive tackles would be Will Svitek and Herb Taylor, both reserves that aren't considered ready to play. The Chiefs' O-line is decimated by injuries and personal issues affecting their starters. That's not good news for Kolby Smith, who is expected to run behind that patchwork O-line in Week 14 at Denver.
Analysis: The Broncos' run defense regressed last week, and if the Chiefs' O-line was healthy, Smith would be able to do well. Monitor the status of the Chiefs' line this week before going with Smith in Week 14. If they're weak at the tackles, Smith is no better than a top-end No. 3 RB.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith had 21 carries for 83 yards Sunday against San Diego. He also added two catches for 1 yard.
Analysis: Smith has played well in place of injured running backs Larry Johnson (foot) and Priest Holmes (neck). It's unknown if Johnson will return in Week 14, but if he remains out, Smith would start at Denver. If Smith starts, consider him a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: The Chiefs have already announced on Wednesday that RB Larry Johnson will not return from a foot injury in Week 13 against the Chargers. It will be the fourth straight game the former All-Pro will miss. The Chiefs have still not give any timetable for his return, although Johnson vowed a few weeks ago he would play again in 2007. Rookie Kolby Smith will once again start in Johnson's place.
Analysis: Fantasy owners who took a flier on Smith in Week 12 were greatly rewarded when he racked up 150 yards and two touchdowns against the Raiders. In Week 13, the Chiefs face a Chargers run defense that isn't quite as bad as Oakland's, but ranks 21st in yards allowed and gave up Adrian Peterson's record rushing day. He might not match Week 12's totals, but we consider Smith a high-end No. 2 Fantasy RB.
News: Owners who took a flier on Chiefs rookie RB Kolby Smith last week were greatly rewarded when he racked up 150 yards and two touchdowns against the Raiders. In Week 13, the Chiefs face a Chargers run defense that isn't quite as bad as Oakland's, but ranks 21st in yards allowed and gave up Adrian Peterson's record rushing day.
Analysis: Smith is no Peterson, but if Brodie Croyle can force the Chargers to respect Kansas City's passing game, Smith should be able to find plenty of holes to run through and could have another very nice week. It might not match Week 12's totals, but we consider him a high-end No. 2 Fantasy RB without much trouble.
News: Chiefs rookie RB Kolby Smith took advantage of a great matchup against a shoddy Oakland run defense and had 150 rush yards on 31 carries and two touchdowns, adding a 2-yard reception in Week 12. Smith paced the Chiefs and gashed the Raiders for several runs of five or more yards. "I was out there playing football and having fun," he said after the game. "You always dream of starting in the NFL and today I wanted to take advantage of it."
Analysis: Not bad for a rookie who entered the game with 1.9 yards per carry this season. Smith is going to be a popular waiver wire pickup -- and for good reason -- but remember that he posted these totals against the Raiders, who have played poorly against the run all season. If he's starting in place of an injured Larry Johnson, Smith is worth a look as a No. 2 Fantasy RB vs. the Chargers in Week 13.
News: NFL Network is reporting Wednesday that Chiefs RB Priest Holmes re-injured his neck in the team's Week 11 loss at Indianapolis and is expected to retire as soon as today. Rookie Kolby Smith is expected to shoulder the load for the Chiefs on the ground. So far this season, Smith has 19 yards on 10 carries and seven catches for 62 yards. The Chiefs host the Raiders in Week 12.
Analysis: Smith has the matchup in his favor -- the Raiders are awful against the run -- but he's got quite a bit to prove before Fantasy owners can rely on him as anything more than a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB. Sure, he's rested and plays in a run-oriented offense, but he hasn't exactly done well in limited playing time both in the regular season and in the preseason.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith again split carries with Priest Holmes in Larry Johnson's absence, picking up 17 yards on eight rushes Week 11 at Indianapolis. However, he proved himself a reliable third-down back, catching three passes for 34 yards.
Analysis: Smith got eight carries to Holmes' 19, so we say the Chiefs will go mostly with the elder statesman from here on out -- especially since Smith barely averaged two yards per carry. Think of Smith as nothing more than injury insurance for now in Fantasy, meaning he'll probably stay on waivers in your league for Week 12 against the Raiders.
News: The swelling in Larry Johnson's injured right foot is subsiding, though not enough for the Chiefs RB to play this week against the Indianapolis Colts. The team ruled Johnson out for Sunday's game at Indianapolis and said his condition will be evaluated each week. His injury forced the Chiefs to turn to Priest Holmes, who returned three weeks ago after missing two years with a spinal cord injury. Holmes looked good in his first full game last week, rushing for 65 yards on 20 carries in a 27-11 loss to Denver, though Chiefs coach Herm Edwards isn't ready to put the full load of Kansas City's offense on his shoulders. That means Holmes, a three-time Pro Bowler, will likely share carries with rookie Kolby Smith, who had 2 yards on two carries against Denver.
Analysis: Even with the expected increase in playing time, Smith has minimal Fantasy value. He should not be used in Week 11 against the Colts unless you are in dire need at RB.
News: Chiefs rookie RB Kolby Smith totaled nine yards on four touches (two carries, two catches) in Week 10 play vs. Dallas.
Analysis: So much for Smith sharing reps with Priest Holmes. Smith is nothing more than good Fantasy insurance for those leaning on Holmes. Don't use him at Indianapolis in Week 11.
News: Chiefs RB Larry Johnson (foot) was declared inactive for Week 10 vs. Denver. Priest Holmes will start in his place and split the rushing duties with rookie Kolby Smith.
Analysis: There were reports earlier in the week that L.J. might be out for the season, but the Chiefs have vehemently denied those allegations. Johnson will have further tests on his injured foot early next week. This injury comes at a bad time for Johnson as he had really gotten on track the last three games. Fantasy owners will have to reserve him Week 10 and hope for the best that he is able to return by Week 11. Holmes, meanwhile, is a No. 2 Fantasy RB option while Smith is at best a low-end No. 3 pick.
News: The Chiefs released their injury report for Week 10 against the Broncos and the most notable status was that of star running back Larry Johnson. Head coach Herm Edwards announced Friday that Johnson has been officially ruled out for Week 10 with a foot injury. Edwards did not further elaborate on how severe the situation is regarding the team's most coveted player. "No, and he’s not playing," Edwards told NFL.com. The Chiefs will now lean on Priest Holmens and Kolby Smith to pick up the slack. "We have a certain number (of carries in mind) but I don’t want to say what it is," Edwards said. "We have a certain number in mind (for Holmes) and a certain number for Kolby."
Analysis: Edwards is confident that Holmes and Smith will fill in adequately. "You’re comfortable with it because you know their strengths," Edwards said. "You’ve got to play to their strengths. That’s why you always want guys either on your team who are backup guys who have a role or practice squad players who have been in your program, rather than trying to bring a guy in. That guy has to learn your offense. These guys have practicing every day; they’ve practiced with our offense. Kolby’s been here since the beginning of the spring; Priest since training camp. They’re both familiar with what we do well." Smith, the rookie out of Louisville, has yet to record a rush in his pro career. What a good time to start as the Chiefs will face the league's worst run defense. Consider Smith a solid No. 3 Fantasy RB or 'flex' option for Week 10.
News: Larry Johnson, a two-time Pro Bowl player, has a sprained right foot and is highly questionable for Sunday's game against Denver, Kansas City coach Herm Edwards said Tuesday. Edwards declined to speculate on how long Johnson might be out, saying he did not have enough information. "He's got a swollen foot right now so that's not good," he said. "The severity of it, I don't know because I'm not the doctor. As far as I know right now, it will be very difficult for him to play this week." Edwards indicated that Priest Holmes and Kolby Smith would take Johnson's reps if LJ did miss the game but admitted that Holmes wouldn't touch the ball exclusively. "Priest Holmes obviously won't be the featured back. We're going to have to do it by committee," Edwards said. "Kolby Smith is going to be used. I'm not going to sit here and say Priest will carry the ball 30 times. That wouldn't be fair to Priest."
Analysis: It sounds like Johnson will be unavailable to Fantasy owners in Week 9. Beyond that is still a mystery, but if his mid-foot sprain is significant, he could be out for a while. Owners of Johnson should expect to be without him in Week 10. Meanwhile, Holmes should see around 15 carries and five receptions and be a good No. 2 Fantasy RB while Smith will fill in and be more of a low-end No. 3. Remember, the Chiefs host the Broncos in Week 10, and they have the worst run defense in the league.
News: RB Priest Holmes could suddenly mean everything to the Chiefs after Larry Johnson injured his right foot and was on crutches after the game. Coach Herm Edwards was careful not to declare Johnson out of next Sunday’s home game against Denver but was pessimistic about Johnson's chances of playing. Johnson's absence would mean that Holmes, barely an afterthought in their plans just a few weeks ago, is the featured back. Rookie Kolby Smith, who hasn't carried the ball this season but has two pass receptions, also could play. "You can't give Priest all of those carries, obviously, if Larry can't go," Edwards said. "Smith will have to play some, too."
Analysis: It appears Holmes would be the No. 1 guy in K.C. if Johnson is hurt since he played against the Packers once Johnson left. Smith, however, will likely see carries as well. Consider Holmes worth adding in all leagues and Smith in larger leagues on the chance he gets extended playing time.
News: Chiefs QB Brodie Croyle, RB Kolby Smith, RB Boomer Grigsby, WR Jeff Webb and WR Eddie Drummond did not record any offensive stats in Week 7 at Oakland.
Analysis: None of these players are in a position to help your Fantasy team at all. Keep them on the waiver wire until further notice.
News: Chiefs TE Kris Wilson, TE Jason Dunn, RB Kolby Smith, RB Boomer Grigsby and QB Brodie Croyle didn't record meaningful statistics in Week 6 against the Bengals.
Analysis: Croyle might replace starter Damon Huard at some point, but these other players probably won't make a Fantasy impact without a rash of injuries. Keep all on waivers for Week 7 at the Raiders.
News: Notable Chiefs from Week 5 vs. Jacksonville include: RB Michael Bennett (minus-2 yards rushing), TE Kris Wilson (31 receiving yards), WR Jeff Webb (26 receiving yards) and rookie RB Kolby Smith (21 yards receiving).
Analysis: All of these players are owned in 10 percent or less of CBSSports.com Fantasy leagues and shouldn't be owned or started with any regularity. The Chiefs play vs. Cincinnati in Week 6.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith, RB Boomer Grigsby, WR Jeff Webb, WR Bobby Sippio, WR Eddie Drummond, TE Jason Dunn and QB Brodie Croyle did not record an offensive statistic Week 4 against the Chargers.
Analysis: Most of these players don't play a vital role in the team's offensive scheme at this point and hardly rack up enough stats to warrant heavy use in Fantasy leagues. Ignore them heading into Week 5 against the Jaguars.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith, WR Jeff Webb, WR Bobby Sippio and QB Brodie Croyle all dressed, but did not record an offensive statistic Week 3 vs. Minnesota
Analysis: Most of these players don't play a vital role in the team's offensive scheme at this point and hardly rack up enough stats to warrant heavy use in Fantasy leagues. Ignore them heading into Week 4 against the Chargers.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith, WR Bobby Sippio, WR Eddie Drummond and TE Jason Dunn did not record an offensive stat in Week 2 at Chicago.
Analysis: Most of these players record little to no stats on a weekly basis. They can be ignored in Fantasy leagues heading in Week 3 against the Vikings.
News: Chiefs backup QB Brodie Croyle, RB Kolby Smith, WR Jeff Webb and WR/KR Eddie Drummond did not record an offensive stat in Week 1 at Houston.
Analysis: Croyle could be a starter somewhere down the line this season, but he isn't worth owning outside of very deep leagues at this time. The rest of these players should remain on the waiver wire until further notice.
News: Priest Holmes (neck) remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, but he is not losing that much ground to the competition. Michael Bennett carried seven times for eight yards and rookie Kolby Smith had seven rushes for just three yards in Thursday's preseason game against the Dolphins.
Analysis: Bennett and Smith continue to battle for the starting job and sit one-two on the official depth chart with Priest still sidelined and Larry Johnson holding out. However, expect things to change dramatically. Right now, Bennett and Smith should only be considered in the deepest of Fantasy leagues as a reserve.
News: Aside from first-round pick WR Dwayne Bow, the Chiefs' 2007 draft class includes: Tennessee DT Turk McBride, N.C. State DT DeMarcus 'Tank' Tyler, Louisville RB Kolby Smith, UCLA PK Justin Medlock, TCU OT Herbert Taylor and Whitworth TE Michael Allan.
Analysis: McBride and Tyler will help the Chiefs fill a big need up front defensively but not help Fantasy owners much. Smith was someone the Chiefs targeted and is expected to be a change-of-pace back to give Larry Johnson a breather a few times per game (a late-round pick in non-seasonal leagues). Medlock will be decent if he wins the starting job in camp over Lawrence Tynes. Everyone else will provide team depth for the club and isn't worth a look in Fantasy Football.
