News: According to 1500ESPN.com, Seahawks WR Sidney Rice had surgery on both his shoulders after the season ended. He was expected to have surgery to repair a torn labrum in one of his shoulders. Rice played in nine games last year, battling through this injury, before a concussion ended his season.
Analysis: Rice's also had a hip procedure in 2010, so the injuries keep piling up on the young receiver. While he should be fine by training camp, Fantasy owners should keep tabs on his recovery process this offseason. Rice had some good games in 2011, but he was mostly inconsistent thanks to poor QB play. He will have limited value entering next year until he can prove he's 100 percent.
News: The Seattle Times reported Tuesday that Seahawks WR Sidney Rice (concussion) is expected to have post-season surgery on his shoulder. The surgery should sideline him for 3-4 months. Rice tore a labrum in his shoulder and played nine games through the injury before a concussion ended his season.
Analysis: Rice should be fine by training camp and shouldn't have any issues lingering heading into next season. That said, this is Rice's second major surgery as a professional as he also had a hip procedure in 2010. Rice had some good games in 2011, but he was mostly inconsistent thanks to poor QB play. He will have limited value entering next year until he can prove himself back.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice was officially placed on injured reserve on Wednesday, ending his season. Seahawks coach Pete Carroll announced Wednesday that Rice was going to be placed on IR. Rice sustained a concussion Week 12.
Analysis: Rice has already sustained two concussions this season, and this is probably the smart move for Seattle since they need to protect their top offseason investment. Rice had some good games in 2011, but he was mostly inconsistent thanks to poor QB play. It's safe to cut him in seasonal Fantasy formats.
News: Seattle coach Pete Carroll said Tuesday that WR Sidney Rice is highly unlikely to play in Week 13 against Philadelphia because of a concussion he sustained last week. With the Seahawks facing a short turnaround before Thursday's game, Carroll said the league's policy to clear concussed players back to practice "basically rules him out." Seattle WR Ben Obomanu is expected to receive the start in Rice's place versus the Eagles.
Analysis: Rice left in the third quarter of Seattle's game against Washington in Week 12 with a head injury and did not return. It was the second time in the past three weeks he has sustained a concussion, and the Seahawks will undoubtedly be careful with the receiver's latest setback. Rice has recorded 32 receptions for 484 yards and scored a touchdown against St. Louis in Week 11. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his health over the next week while preparing to utilize healthier alternatives for Week 13. However, Obomanu is not a worthy replacement.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice was listed as having a concussion on Monday's practice and he did not participate in preparation for Week 13 against the Eagles. The concussion is also Rice’s second in three weeks, though he did return from the first one and played the following weekend.
Analysis: Rice left Week 12 due to the injury and might not be able to play against the Eagles with a short week coming up. With the game on Thursday, owners should keep an eye on his status moving forward. Philadelphia has been given up a ton of Fantasy points to receivers in recent weeks so he could be in line for a solid performance if he is able to play. Consider Rice a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR worth starting in most formats, if healthy.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice suffered a head injury during the Week 12 game against the Redskins. Rice rushed just once in the game for 3 yards and did not make a reception before leaving the game for good in the third quarter. Rice was targeted twice in the game by QB Tarvaris Jackson.
Analysis: Rice did not come away with a catch in the Week 12 game and has just five catches in his last three games combined for 49 yards. That said, Rice does have a touchdown over that span. We're not sure how badly he's injured, so Fantasy owners will have to check back heading into Week 13 against the Eagles. The Eagles are all of a sudden struggling to stop opposing wide receivers. The Eagles have allowed a WR to rack up at least 95 receiving yards in five straight games and entered Week 12 having allowed five touchdowns to the position in the last five weeks. Yes, the Eagles are seemingly falling apart in the secondary at the moment and Seattle could get lateral behind the quarterback Jackson. Jackson hasn't been the best at throwing the ball, but Rice is his top option. Against the struggling Eagles, consider Rice a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR worth starting in most formats, if healthy.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice is active for the Week 12 game against Washington, despite being listed on the injury report with a knee issue. Rice was able to practice on Friday and declared himself ready to play.
Analysis: Rice found the end zone for a second time this season last weekend. He's gone over the century mark twice as well for the Seahawks as he remains the top option for QB Tarvaris Jackson. Things are looking better for Rice, which is why Fantasy owners should consider Rice a low-end No. 2 or high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: According to Seattle coach Pete Carroll, WR Sidney Rice is "ready to go" for Sunday's contest versus Washington. Rice practiced on Friday after sitting out the previous two days. Rice is dealing with a knee injury, which has led Carroll to rest his star receiver.
Analysis: Rice found the end zone for a second time this season last weekend. He's gone over the century mark twice as well for the Seahawks as he remains the top option for QB Tarvaris Jackson. Things are looking better for Rice, which is why Fantasy owners should consider Rice a low-end No. 2 or high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice missed a second straight day of practice Thursday with a knee injury, bringing into question his status for Week 12 against Washington. Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said Wednesday the team was going to “rest” the receiver, but made no mention of a serious injury.
Analysis: Rice recorded just his second touchdown of the season last week and he's topped 100 yards twice, but remains the top option for QB Tarvaris Jackson in the passing game. While the Redskins have been decent against wide receivers on the year, both Dez Bryant and Laurent Robinson scored touchdowns for Dallas last Sunday. Consider Rice a low-end No. 2 or high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice missed practice on Wednesday with a knee injury, and his status for Week 12 against Washington is questionable now. He has only caught eight passes in his last three games combined heading into the game against the Redskins. That said, Rice caught three passes for 35 yards and his second touchdown of the season last week at St. Louis. Rice could have trouble Week 12 against the Redskins, however. Washington is allowing the eighth-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers on the season. Plus, in one career game against the Redskins, coming last year, Rice has one catch for 20 yards and no touchdowns.
Analysis: Rice recorded just his second TD of the season last week and he's only topped 100 yards twice. He remains the top option for QB Tarvaris Jackson in the passing game, but that isn't a very good passing game to begin with. While the Redskins have been pretty good against wide receivers on the year, both Dez Bryant and Laurent Robinson scored touchdowns off them last week for Dallas. The Redskins have been giving up some good performances and Rice can be treated as a low-end No. 2 or high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice has only caught eight passes in his last three games combined heading into Week 12 against Washington. That said, Rice caught three passes for 35 yards and his second touchdown of the season last week at St. Louis. Rice could have trouble Week 12 against the Redskins, however. Washington is allowing the eighth-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers on the season. Plus, in one career game against the Redskins, coming last year, Rice has one catch for 20 yards and no touchdowns.
Analysis: Rice recorded just his second TD of the season last week and he's only topped 100 yards twice. He remains the top option for QB Tarvaris Jackson in the passing game, but that isn't a very good passing game to begin with. While the Redskins have been pretty good against wide receivers on the year, both Dez Bryant and Laurent Robinson scored touchdowns off them last week for Dallas. The Redskins have been giving up some good performances and Rice can be treated as a low-end No. 2 or high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice recorded three catches for 35 yards and a touchdown during the Seahawks’ 24-7 victory over St. Louis. He connected with QB Tarvaris Jackson on a 14-yard strike in the second quarter to tie the game at 7. He hauled in every pass thrown in his direction by Jackson and posted an average of 11.7 yards per reception. Rice also completed a 55-yard pass WR Mike Williams to open the game.
Analysis: Rice effectively returned from a head injury suffered in Week 10 and showed no lingering effects of the potentially serious issue. He surpassed the totals (two catches for 14 yards) he managed before leaving last Sunday’s game against Baltimore with his solid performance in the first half alone. And he was able to halt his scoreless streak at five games. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 12 against Washington.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice is active for Week 11 at St. Louis after dealing with a head injury in practice. Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said Rice would play Sunday after being listed as probable on the team's injury report.
Analysis: Rice suffered a concussion during Week 10 against Baltimore which limited him to just two receptions for a season-low 14 yards. Rice has not reached the end zone in his past five games. Consider Rice a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 11.
News: Seattle coach Pete Carroll said Friday that WR Sidney Rice is expected to play in Week 11 against St. Louis. Rice, who was officially listed as probable on the team's injury report, has been a full participant in practice throughout the past week. He suffered a concussion during Week 10 against Baltimore which limited him to just two receptions for a season-low 14 yards. Rice has not reached the end zone in his past five games.
Analysis: Rice draws a favorable matchup against the Rams in the hopes of overcoming his recent struggles. He has just five catches over his past two games combined as he has gone scoreless since Week 5 against the Giants. In his only game against St. Louis in 2009 with Minnesota, Rice averaged 20.3 yards per catch (three catches, 61 yards). The Rams are also yielding an average of 17.7 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this year. Consider Rice a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 11.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice practiced with no limitations on Thursday. He sustained a concussion last weekend. The Seahawks fly in and take on the Rams in Week 11. The Rams have been allowing opposing team's receivers to score an average of 24.44 Fantasy points per contest against them this season.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should continue to track his status heading into Week 11, when the Seahawks face the Rams. St. Louis is allowing 220.8 passing yards per contest this season, but have been burned for 15 touchdowns through the air in nine games. While there is a chance he plays, there is no guarantee. If he's active on Sunday, Fantasy owners should view Rice as a No. 3 WR option.
News: Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said Wednesday that Kam Chancellor, Sidney Rice and Doug Baldwin, who all sustained concussions Week 10, were limited in practice. Carroll added he was confident Chancellor would be active Week 11 at St. Louis, and added "there's a good chance" Rice and Baldwin will also play.
Analysis: Rice looked pretty shaken up when he was hurt Sunday, but it seems it looked worse than it was. However, Rice still could sit out Week 11, so we will have to continue to track his progress. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR if he is healthy enough to play against the Rams.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice has officially been diagnosed with a concussion coach Pete Carroll told reporters on Monday. Rice was forced from Sunday's contest against the Ravens after he took a big shot to the head in the second half. Rice had two catches for 14 yards prior to leaving the contest. Carroll said his status remains uncertain for Week 11 against the Rams.
Analysis: Rice has officially been diagnosed with a concussion and will now have to pass the NFL's concussion protocol before he can be cleared to play. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status to see if he will be able to take the field next Sunday. St. Louis has surrendered 15 touchdowns through the air thus far, so this looks to be somewhat of a favorable matchup for Rice. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR, if he is healthy enough to play against the Rams.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice left Sunday's game against Baltimore with a head injury. He was hurt on a play where he had a ball just out of his reach. He entered Week 10 on the injury report with a foot injury and was the second Seattle receiver to leave the game with a head injury. Rice had just two catches for 14 yards before leaving the game.
Analysis: Rice was targeted four times in the game. The Seahawks face the Rams in Week 12, a team that has given up 15 passing touchdowns this season. But with Tarvaris Jackson as the quarterback in Seattle, Rice's value isn't as high as it could be. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on Rice's status during the week before starting him next Sunday. When healthy, Rice is a No. 3 WR option.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice was active for Week 10. Coach Pete Carroll had said Rice would be playing on Sunday and he was correct. Rice has been dealing with a foot issue and has been limited in practice. Rice will face a Ravens defense that is permitting 193.6 passing yards per game this season and surrendered just six passing touchdowns.
Analysis: Rice was able to play last Sunday against Dallas after being hampered by the same issue and registered three catches for 69 yards. He remains the Seahawks' top receiving threat, but has just one touchdowns this year as a result of the team's inconsistent play at quarterback. The Ravens are allowing an average of 19.3 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers this year. Consider Rice a No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option for Week 10.
News: Seattle coach Pete Carroll said Friday that WR Sidney Rice will play in Week 10 against Baltimore. Rice is officially listed as probable on the team's injury report because of a foot issue. He has been a limited participant in practice throughout the past week. Rice will face a Ravens defense that is permitting 193.6 passing yards per game this season and surrendered just six passing touchdowns.
Analysis: Rice was able to play last Sunday against Dallas after being hampered by the same issue and registered three catches for 69 yards. He remains the Seahawks' top receiving threat, but has just one touchdowns this year as a result of the team's inconsistent play at quarterback. The Ravens are allowing an average of 19.3 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers this year. Consider Rice a No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option for Week 10.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice (foot) returned to practice on a limited basis Thursday after sitting out Wednesday. He is expected to play Week 10 vs. Baltimore. The Ravens have been allowing 193.6 passing yards per game this year and given up just six scores through the air. Receivers are tallying 19.3 Fantasy points per week against Baltimore.
Analysis: Rice dealt with the same foot injury late last week and played against the Cowboys. Coach Pete Carroll indicated he was banged up, but is expecting him to play Sunday. It's a tough matchup, so consider Rice a No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option.
News: Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said he held WR Sidney Rice out of practice Wednesday due to various ailments, but he is expected to be ready Week 10 versus Baltimore. The Ravens have been allowing 193.6 passing yards per game this year and given up just six scores through the air. Opposing receivers are tallying 19.25 Fantasy points per contest against Baltimore so far this season.
Analysis: Carroll said earlier in the week that Rice would probably be limited this week after getting banged up Week 9. Don't forget he dealt with a foot injury last week, which is probably another reason he needs rest. It sounds as though Rice is still going to play, but it's a tough matchup, so consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option.
News: Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said WR Sidney Rice could be limited in practice this week after getting banged up Week 9 against the Cowboys, but he should be OK heading into Week 10 against the Ravens.
Analysis: Don't forget Rice came into Week 9 with a foot injury, so he is probably still dealing with some lingering issues with that. But his coach sounds confident he will take the field Week 10. We just need to keep tabs on his progress in case his status changes. Rice is definitely a better receiver when Tarvaris Jackson is at quarterback, but he still is at best a No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option for Week 10.
News: After a quiet first half in which he caught a single pass for nine yards, Seahawks WR Sidney Rice wound up with a team-best 69 receiving yards in a 23-13 loss to the Cowboys in Week 9. Rice made two more catches after halftime, including a 43-yard third-quarter reception that was the team's longest play from scrimmage. However, QB Tarvaris Jackson overthrew Rice frequently, so he could not get more production out of his team-leading eight targets.
Analysis: Rice already has two games this year with at least 100 receiving yards, so he is clearly able to help Fantasy owners in almost any given week. However, Jackson is not the most accurate of quarterbacks, so even with frequent targets, owners can't count on Rice to perform like a No. 1 Fantasy WR. Especially with a difficult matchup against the Ravens in Week 10, Fantasy owners should view Rice as low-end No. 2 or high-end No. 3 wide receiver.
News: As expected Seahawks WR Sidney Rice (foot) was not listed among the inactives for Week 9 at Dallas. Coach Pete Carroll had said on Friday that Rice would play against the Cowboys, even though he had missed practice on Thursday.
Analysis: Rice has a very tough matchup against the Cowboys, but he remains the Seahawks' main receiving threat. He could manage to churn out enough yardage in Week 9 to be useful as a No. 2 Fantasy WR, now that we know that he will be active.
News: Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said on Friday that WR Sidney Rice will play Week 9 at Dallas despite missing practice on Thursday with a foot injury. In Week 8, Rice registered his second game of the season with at least 100 receiving yards. He will attempt to post his third 100-plus yard game of the year in Week 9, but it will be an uphill battle. The Cowboys rank ninth in the league in fewest receiving yards allowed to wide receivers on a per-week basis. In fact, Dallas has yet to allow a wide receiver to have a 100-plus yard game this year.
Analysis: Rice's production has been inconsistent this season, but he's the Seahawks' most targeted receiver by a wide margin, so he always has a shot at having a big game. While another 100-plus yard game is improbable this week, Rice could still churn out enough yardage to be worth using as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: In Week 8, Seahawks WR Sidney Rice registered his second game of the season with at least 100 receiving yards. He will attempt to post his third 100-plus yard game of the year in Week 9 against the Cowboys, but it will be an uphill battle. The Cowboys rank ninth in the league in fewest receiving yards allowed to wide receivers on a per-week basis. In fact, Dallas has yet to allow a wide receiver to have a 100-plus yard game this year.
Analysis: Rice's production has been inconsistent this season, but he's the Seahawks' most targeted receiver by a wide margin, so he always has a shot at having a big game. While another 100-plus yard game is improbable this week, Rice could still churn out enough yardage to be worth using as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR. He showed up on the injury report Thursday as did not practice because of a foot injury, so we will have to keep tabs on his progress when the official injury report rolls out Friday.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice posted his second 100-yard performance of the season in Week 8 against the Bengals. He caught seven passes for 102 yards in the 34-12 loss. Rice nearly had his second touchdown grab of the season in the second half but he was unable to keep both feet in bounds. He was targeted a team-high 14 times and finished second in receiving to WR Ben Obomanu (107 yards). Rice had a long reception of 35 and averaged 14.6 yards per catch.
Analysis: Rice was thrown to a ton on Sunday and while he had a couple of costly drops, he was still able to go over the 100-yard mark for the first time since Week 3. He appears to be developing a solid rapport with QB Tarvaris Jackson and should continue to be the big-play threat in the passing game. With Dallas on the schedule for Week 9, consider Rice as no worse than a No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice enters Week 8 against the Bengals looking for his second 100-yard game of the season. Cincinnati ranks fifth in the league against the pass, giving up 189 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 13.3 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. In his last five games against the AFC, Rice is averaging 98.8 yards per contest with three touchdowns.
Analysis: Rice caught eight passes for 109 yards in his season debut but since then has posted 155 yards on nine catches over his last three games. While he has one touchdown over that span, inconsistent QB play his limited his production. There is still no word whether Tarvaris Jackson or Charlie Whitehurst will play in Week 8 so keep an eye on the situation going forward. But no matter who is throwing his way, consider Rice a No. 3 Fantasy WR against the Bengals.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice was held in check in Week 7 against the Browns. The veteran receiver had two catches for 38 yards on five targets. He didn't have his first catch -- a 38-yard reception -- until under 5 minutes in the third quarter.
Analysis: Rice got the bad news before kickoff that Browns DB Joe Haden (knee) was returning to the lineup. Haden then went on to shut down Rice, who had his second straight bad performance. Rice probably can't wait until Tarvaris Jackson returns from his pectoral injury because his best games have come when Jackson has been 100 percent. If Jackson is back in Week 8 against the Bengals, then consider Rice a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice will face an AFC team for the first time this season in Week 7 against the Browns and his history lately against the AFC is favorable. Rice has totaled 25 catches for 456 yards and three touchdowns in his last four games against AFC opponents. This AFC opponent, however, has been very stingy against receivers in 2011. The Browns are allowing WRs to averaged 14.4 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for third lowest in the NFL. WRs have totaled just two touchdowns against the Browns.
Analysis: Rice was held in check the last time he took the field in Week 5 against the Giants. While his Week 7 matchup looks tough, he might catch a break if Browns shutdown corner Joe Haden remains out or limited Sunday. Haden is officially listed as questionable. Although, Rice has his own situation to worry about since the Seahawks are expected to start Charlie Whitehurst at QB with Tarvaris Jackson nursing a pectoral injury. Consider Rice at best a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 7.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice will face an AFC team for the first time this season in Week 7 against the Browns and his history lately against the AFC is favorable. Rice has totaled 25 catches for 456 yards and three touchdowns in his last four games against AFC opponents. This AFC opponent, however, has been very stingy against receivers in 2011. The Browns are allowing WRs to averaged 14.4 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for third lowest in the NFL. WRs have totaled just two touchdowns against the Browns.
Analysis: Rice was held in check the last time he took the field in Week 5 against the Giants. While his Week 7 matchup looks tough, he might catch a break if Browns shutdown corner Joe Haden remains out or limited Sunday. Although, Rice has his own situation to worry about since the Seahawks aren't sure if Tarvaris Jackson will start at QB on Sunday. Charlie Whitehurst is taking the first-team reps in practice. Consider Rice at best a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 7.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice caught four passes for 38 yards in Week 5 at the Giants. He was targeted five times in the game with Doug Baldwin and Ben Obomanu finishing ahead of him in pass targets.
Analysis: The Seahawks featured Obomanu heavily in the passing game early on. After Tarvaris Jackson went down with a pectoral injury in the third quarter, Charlie Whitehurst looked to Doug Baldwin often. Rice burst back onto the Fantasy scene with eight grabs for 109 yards in Week 3 against Arizona. He caught three passes for 79 yards and a score in Week 4 against the Falcons. In Week 5, he was never a big part of the offense. Seattle's pass offense has been shaky, which should continue to lead to erratic totals from Rice. However, he remains worthy of stashing in Fantasy as a potential No. 2/3 WR option based upon matchups. In Week 6, the Seahawks will be on a bye before returning in Week 7 against the Browns.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice will face a Giants defense in Week 5 that has not allowed a passing touchdown in each of the last two weeks. The Giants rank 18th in the NFL against the pass through the first four weeks of the season, allowing 244.2 passing yards per game.
Analysis: The Giants were able to keep Philadelphia's potent pass offense in check in Week 3, holding Michael Vick to 176 passing yards and no touchdowns. They kept Larry Fitzgerald out of the end zone in Week 4 in Arizona. However, Rice should remain a highly targeted option in Seattle's pass offense as he has been in his first two weeks back from injury. He has caught 11 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown over the past two weeks and should be featured enough to remain a viable No. 2 WR option -- especially now that the bye weeks have begun.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice had three catches for 79 yards and a touchdown during the Seahawks' 30-28 loss to Atlanta in Week 4 on Sunday. Rice connected on a long 52-yard touchdown strike with QB Tarvaris Jackson for Seattle's first score of the game and cut the Falcons' lead to 14-7. It was his first touchdown of the season and as a member of the Seahawks after spending the first four years of his career with Minnesota.
Analysis: Rice has served as the receiver Jackson was missing in the first two games of the season and is already second on the team with 188 receiving yards, second only to Doug Baldwin. He matched Baldwin for targets in Sunday's game with six and remains a solid option downfield for the Seahawks. Fantasy owners should view him as a No. 3 Fantasy WR in Week 5 against the Giants.
News: After showing a quick connection with Seattle QB Tarvaris Jackson in his team debut, Seahawks WR Sidney Rice is hoping to carry that momentum into Week 4 against Atlanta. Rice, who missed Seattle's first two games with a shoulder injury, caught eight passes for 108 yards in the Seahawks' victory over Arizona. “It takes a little familiarity,” Jackson said. “We’ve done it before. I’ve seen him make plays with Brett (Favre) like that and seen him make plays over the last four or five years that we’ve been together so obviously there’s some comfort there.”
Analysis: Rice's presence should energize a sluggish Seattle pass offense that is ranked 30th in the NFL. Jackson and Rice played together in Minnesota and the two could carry over the trust they built from their time with the Vikings against the Falcons. Rice has 154 career catches and 114 (74 percent) of them have gone for a first down or touchdown. Atlanta is permitting an average of 21.1 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this year. Consider Rice a No. 3 Fantasy WR for his second game of the season.
News: Seattle had to wait until Week 3 to see what WR Sidney Rice had to offer. He delivered as he caught eight passes for 109 yards in Sunday's 13-10 win over the Cardinals. He was targeted 10 times by Tarvaris Jackson, who was his teammate back in Minnesota.
Analysis: Although Rice performed well above expectations, it did come against an Arizona defense that ranks among the worst in the league against the pass. Looking ahead, the Seahawks host the Falcons in Week 4, another team that doesn't have a good pass defense. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on him during the week to make sure his shoulder doesn't act up. As long as he's healthy and active next Sunday, Rice should be viewed as more of a No. 4 WR or flex option in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice is making his debut of the 2011 season and with his new team in Week 3 against Arizona. He's been dealing with a shoulder issue so far this season and is coming off surgery on his hip last year.
Analysis: Rice practiced all week and is ready to go. But with this being his first game he may show some rust. Fantasy owners should keep him sidelined until he proves he's 100 percent.
News: Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said Friday that WR Sidney Rice is listed as probable for Week 3 vs. Arizona and is "going to play." Rice has yet to make his 2011 regular season debut because of a shoulder injury. He said he has no concerns about the shoulder injury. “No, I’m fine. . . I feel comfortable, I’m ready to go and we’ll see how it goes Sunday," Rice said.
Analysis: Rice has practiced in full this week despite having labrum damage in his shoulder. Clearly, Fantasy owners are going to have to temper their expectations since Rice probably won't be 100 percent and the Seahawks passing game is atrocious. Rice is a low-end Fantasy start for Week.
News: 710 ESPN Seattle reports Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said Friday about WR Sidney Rice (shoulder) that "it's a big deal for us to get Sidney back," but he wouldn't confirm if Rice would make his 2011 debut on Sunday against the Cardinals.
Analysis: Rice has practiced in full this week despite having labrum damage in his shoulder, but the Seahawks seem to be holding out hope that Rice will take the field Week 3. Clearly, Fantasy owners are going to have to temper their expectations since Rice probably won't be 100 percent and the Seahawks passing game is atrocious. Rice would be a low-end Fantasy start for Week 3 if he plays.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice (shoulder) practiced in full for a second straight day Thursday as the team prepares for Week 3 against the Cardinals.
Analysis: While it's encouraging Rice is practicing in full, he is still not out of the woods. The Seahawks will see how he continues to progress before deciding his status for Week 3. Clearly, Fantasy owners are going to have to temper their expectations since Rice probably won't be 100 percent and the Seahawks passing game is atrocious. Rice would be a low-end Fantasy start for Week 3 if he plays.
News: Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said WR Sidney Rice (shoulder) will practice without limitations on Wednesday. Carroll did warn that Rice, who has missed the first two games, is still day to day but is encouraged. "He looks like he's ready to go," Carroll said.
Analysis: This is a big 180 since the beginning of the week when Carroll said Rice had labrum damage. But it seems as though as long as Rice can keep the injury manageable, then he has the chance to play Week 3 against the Cardinals. Clearly, Fantasy owners are going to have to temper their expectations since Rice probably won't be 100 percent and the Seahawks passing game is atrocious. Rice would be a low-end Fantasy start for Week 3 if he plays.
News: 710 ESPN in Seattle reports Seahawks coach Pete Carroll confirmed Monday morning the report that WR Sidney Rice "has labrum damage." He has yet to make his regular season debut for Seattle because of the lingering shoulder injury. “There’s numbers of different ways that can be damaged,” Carroll said. “Some guys live with them. It just depends on how it affects their movement and can they play with it? Sidney’s out there working. He’s catching balls and running around. Is he good enough to play? We’ll find out.” Rice is expected to practice this week, but a decision about his status for Week 3 against Arizona won't be decided until after the practice week.
Analysis: We suspect Rice will continue to stay sidelined until his shoulder injury goes away but he could play through the pain and undergo surgery in the offseason. The Seahawks' passing game is a mess but have a decent matchup at home against the Cardinals in Week 3, but we'd be shocked if Rice is a part of it. With his future uncertain, Fantasy owners should consider releasing Rice if a more reliable player or high-upside option is available on waivers.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice missed Week 2 at Pittsburgh with a shoulder injury, and he has yet to play for the Seahawks after he signed a five-year deal worth $44 million with $18.5 million guaranteed. Responding to a media report that Rice has a torn labrum, coach Pete Carroll said Sunday that Rice's status has yet to be determined. “He’s got some damage in his shoulder," Carroll said after losing to the Steelers 24-0. "We’re trying to figure out how he can come back. The labrum issues are all different. This will be a big week for us to test him.”
Analysis: We'll continue to follow what happens with Rice, and hopefully he can return for Week 3 at Arizona. If he does have a torn labrum then he would be worth releasing in all leagues. For now, Fantasy owners should hold onto him and hopefully he gets back on the field sooner rather than later. When healthy, Rice is a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best in all leagues.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice was inactive for Week 2 at Pittsburgh. Rice was expected to miss the game with a shoulder injury, and he has yet to make his debut with the Seahawks after signing with them this offseason.
Analysis: Rice will hope to get back on the field for Week 3 against Arizona. Continue to monitor his progress, but wait to see if he's able to play against the Cardinals. When healthy, Rice is a No. 3 Fantasy WR in the majority of leagues.
News: Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said Friday that WR Sidney Rice won't play Week 2 at Pittsburgh, missing a second straight game with a shoulder injury. "We think he has a pretty solid chance next week," Carroll added about Rice returning to the lineup in Week 3.
Analysis: Reports were positive when Rice was practicing Thursday, but the Seahawks spent a lot of money on him this offseason, so they aren't going to risk further damaging his shoulder. Fantasy owners need to look to other alternatives in Week 2. With Rice to sit out again that means Mike Williams and Doug Baldwin are the likely benefactors at wide receiver for Seattle.
News: 710 ESPN in Seattle reports Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said WR Sidney Rice, who was inactive Week 1 with a shoulder injury, "won't play in this game (Week 2 against Pittsburgh) unless something goes crazy here in the next day in our travel if he can just get healed."
Analysis: It sounds as though Carroll isn't expecting Rice to be active Week 2, but he is still hopeful a miracle will happen. Reports were positive when Rice was practicing Thursday, but the Seahawks spent a lot of money on him this offseason, so they aren't going to risk further damaging his shoulder. Fantasy owners should probably look to other alternatives in Week 2. With Rice expected to sit out again that means Mike Williams and Doug Baldwin are the likely benefactors at wide receiver for Seattle.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice, who missed Week 1 against the 49ers with a shoulder injury, saw limited practice reps for a second straight day Thursday. The team is preparing for the Week 2 tilt against the Steelers, and the No. 1 WR again looked comfortable while running and catching in the session -- according to the team's official website. Rice participated in team drills in the session for the first time in three weeks. His status remains in question but even having him back in practice was a welcome sight for QB Tarvaris Jackson. "That’s a comfort zone for me," he said. "I know Sid well as a player.”
Analysis: Rice was listed as limited even though he worked considerably more than Wednesday, so Fantasy owners should be a bit more optimistic about his status for Sunday. However, against a tough and previously-embarrassed Pittsburgh defense, he may not have much room on game day. Rice remains the clear-cut go-to-guy for Jackson, but he is not a recommended option at this point.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice, who missed Week 1 against the 49ers with a shoulder injury, returned to practice Wednesday on a limited basis. Seattle plays Pittsburgh in Week 2. “He ran around a lot and caught a lot of balls today. What that means, I don’t know," coach Pete Carroll said of Rice's status for Sunday's game.
Analysis: Whenever Rice takes the field for Seattle we expect a lot of passes to go his way. The Seahawks signed him this offseason to be their star receiver, and Rice has Fantasy potential even with Tarvaris Jackson the player slinging him passes. If Rice plays this week, then consider him a low-end Fantasy option since we want to see how he performs coming off this injury before he becomes a reliable start.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice was inactive for Week 1 as he continues to deal with a shoulder injury. He didn't practice for four straight days during the week and was listed as doubtful heading into Sunday's contest with San Francisco.
Analysis: Rice's debut with his new team will have to wait as he wasn't able to take the field. He missed time in 2010 with the Vikings with a hip injury, so coach Pete Carroll is probably going to lean on the cautious side with his new receiver. Adjusting to a new team may take a while, so when healthy, Fantasy owners should view Rice as a No. 4 WR option.
News: It is seeming more and more unlikely that WR Sidney Rice will make his regular season debut for the Seahawks this Sunday against the 49ers. Coach Pete Carroll said on Friday that his receiver is doubtful for Week 1 after he failed to practice for a fourth straight day. Rice is dealing with a shoulder injury.
Analysis: Carroll said on Thursday that Rice was making progress, but it obviously isn't enough as he's now listed as doubtful. He missed time in 2010 with the Vikings with a hip injury, so Carroll is probably going to lean on the cautious side with his new receiver. Fantasy owners may want to look for another option for Week 1, as Rice's status is looking bad. Even if he plays, owners should consider him more of a No. 4 Fantasy WR option.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice was held out of practice for the third straight day Thursday as he continues to deal with a shoulder injury before the team's Week 1 game against San Francisco. Rice, who is listed as questionable on the injury report, is in his first season with the Seahawks.
Analysis: Seattle coach Pete Carroll said Rice was making progress with his recovery, but was unable to return to the practice field. Carroll said Rice's official status will be known Friday as he could be deemed a game-time decision. Rice battled injuries last season with Minnesota and was limited to just six games. With his status unsettled, Fantasy owners should consider Rice a No. 4 Fantasy WR or flex option against the 49ers.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice (shoulder) was held out of practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 1 at San Francisco. Although, coach Pete Carroll said Rice is making "good progress."
Analysis: Carroll said the team wouldn't know Rice's status for Week 1 until later in the week, so it remains a waiting game. Don't be surprised if he is questionable on the injury report Friday and a game-time decision on Sunday. Unfortunately, it's a 4:15 p.m. ET start time, so you are taking a gamble by starting Rice unless he is declared probable later in the week. Rice had just four catches for 22 yards during the preseason and this is coming after his injury-plagued campaign in 2010 with the Vikings. Hopefully, the injuries aren't a continuing trend because we saw in 2009 how valuable Rice can be for Fantasy owners. Rice is worth starting as a No. 4 Fantasy WR or flex option if he gets onto the field in Week 1, so continue to track his progress.
News: The status of Seahawks WR Sidney Rice (shoulder) will likely remain a question all week, Pete Carroll said as his team prepares for Week 1 against the 49ers. “We’ll wait later in the week to know what’s going on with him," Carroll said.
Analysis: This is the last thing the Seahawks want to be dealing with entering Week 1 -- an injury to their top offseason acquisition. But that's football. Rice had just four catches for 22 yards during the preseason and this is coming after his injury-plagued campaign in 2010 with the Vikings. Hopefully, the injuries aren't a continuing trend because we saw in 2009 how valuable Rice can be for Fantasy owners. Rice is worth starting as a No. 3 Fantasy WR if he gets onto the field in Week 1, so continue to track his progress. If you are still drafting, then consider Rice a mid-round Fantasy pick in standard formats.
News: The Seattle Times reports that Seahawks WR Sidney Rice left practice on Tuesday with a shoulder problem and hasn't been back on the field since. He practiced before but did not play in the team's preseason game Friday against the Raiders. "Sidney's shoulder is still sore," Carroll said. "He has made a lot of improvement in the last couple of days already so we'll be watching that day to day."
Analysis: Rice's preseason hasn't been overly impressive, but that's not a real reason to not like the former Vikings receiver. Having weak quarterbacks and a sore shoulder are reasons to not like him. Additionally, Rice just got paid a huge contract, one he's been chasing for years, and with only a limited track record of success, some people think he's overvalued -- both by the team and by the Seahawks. We consider Rice a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best, and he's only worth drafting with a mid-round pick in most leagues.
News: Seattle WR Sidney Rice did not do much in the third preseason game at Denver. Rice was held to just two catches for 11 yards.
Analysis: Rice will likely struggle this season as he tries to adjust to playing with QB Tarvaris Jackson on a new team. While he got paid like a No. 1 target, Rice is not likely to live up to his contract. We consider Rice a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best, and he's only worth drafting with a mid-round pick in most leagues.
News: Seahawks WR Sidney Rice did not play in Thursday's preseason opener against the Chargers, but it was not due to an injury. He simply sat out the game most likely as a precautionary measure with minimal practice time with his new club. Rice was acquired via free agency in the short offseason.
Analysis: Rice had a breakout campaign in 2009, but offseason hip surgery limited him to just six games last season. Still, Seattle believed enough in him to sign him to a big deal. The big-play threat will have the familiar Tavaris Jackson throwing to him in 2011, so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on their chemistry heading into the season. Seek Rice as a high-end No. 3 WR on Draft Day coming off of an unproductive season while entering a new situation with mediocre QB play.
News: FOX Sports reported Wednesday that free-agent WR Sidney Rice agreed to a five-year deal with the Seahawks worth $44 million with $18.5 million guaranteed. He dealt with a hip injury that limited him to just six games last season, but he broke out while catching passes from Brett Favre in 2009 with 83 catches, 1,312 yards and eight touchdowns.
Analysis: There was many teams in pursuit of the tall and athletic Rice, but he reunites with QB Tavaris Jackson and offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell in the Pacific Northwest. Is that enough to make him an asset in 2011? We're not so sure -- the Seahawks don't have a playmaking quarterback on the roster and Rice might cool his jets after landing this pay day considering that he's been looking for it for over a year while dealing with the effects of major hip surgery. There's a very real chance that Rice could bottom out in Seattle given the talent around him and the motivation he might not have now that he's gotten paid. We wouldn't take him as anything more than a high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR, which is to say that someone in every league might overpay for him on Draft Day by taking him among the No. 2 wideouts. If there's a silver lining, it's that he's on a team that might play from behind a lot and thus contribute to his stats. Please note: Our opinion will change if the Seahawks acquire a better quarterback.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that the Vikings and Seahawks are vying for free agent WR Sidney Rice, but Seattle will set the value for Rice after they give him a physical to check out his hip.
Analysis: We'll find out if Rice will leave the Vikings for the Seahawks or stay in Minnesota. In Seattle, Rice would be reunited with QB Tarvaris Jackson, and with the Vikings he could be catching passes from Donovan McNabb. We'd like to see him stay in Minnesota, but either way he should be considered a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR. Plan on drafting Rice with a mid-round pick.
News: The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports that Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said he spoke with potential free agent WR Sidney Rice the day the lockout was lifted. Frazier said Rice told him he is "enthusiastic" about a potential return to the Vikings but will explore his free agency options once the lockout ends.
Analysis: We'll keep an eye on where Rice ends up playing and also his health based on his hip injury from last year. We all saw Rice's potential in 2009 when, in his third season, he caught 83 passes for 1,312 yards and eight touchdowns. Assuming he's healthy, Rice has potential for a big year depending on who is throwing him the football. If he stays in Minnesota he'll work in the Vikings' new West Coast offense and might catch passes from rookie Christian Ponder. If he moves on, then the sky is the limit. We're seeing Rice get drafted as a No. 3 Fantasy WR right now but he might just as easily become a No. 2 option depending on what his situation looks like come training camp.
News: Agent Drew Rosenhaus posted on Twitter that he "got destroyed" in four 300-meter shuttle races by WR Sidney Rice and that "any doubt regarding his hip injury is erased." Rosenhaus added that Rice is in the best shape of his career. The Vikings receiver is expected to be a free agent this offseason and could move teams after missing much of 2010 with hip surgery last August.
Analysis: Frankly, we'd be stunned if Rice didn't "destroy" Rosenhaus in a shuttle run. We all saw Rice's potential in 2009 when, in his third season, he caught 83 passes for 1,312 yards and eight touchdowns while looking and playing a lot like Larry Fitzgerald (who he trained with the summer prior). Assuming he's as healthy as his agent says he is, Rice has potential for a big year depending on who is throwing him the football. If he stays in Minnesota he'll work in the Vikings' new West Coast offense and might catch passes from rookie Christian Ponder. If he moves on, then the sky is the limit. We're seeing Rice get drafted as a No. 3 Fantasy WR right now but he might just as easily become a No. 2 option depending on what his situation looks like come training camp.
News: Vikings GM Rick Spielman told KSTP-AM in Minneapolis that he has no problem with Sidney Rice's health at this point. Rice missed more than half of the 2010 season rehabbing from hip surgery last August. "I'm sure if we felt any concerns medically that we wouldn't be discussing extensions with him," he said. Minnesota has placed a first-round tender on Rice in the event that he remains a restricted free agent when the NFL offseason officially begins.
Analysis: Rice has said before that he'd like to test free agency, and the Vikings have a lot of issues to solve including what to do at wide receiver. Fantasy owners have to chalk 2010 up to the hip surgery and plan 2011 as a year Rice could rebound. He was a Fantasy stud in 2009, playing a big role in Brett Favre's renaissance that season, and he could do it again in 2011 almost regardless of who the Vikings QB will be. We're seeing Rice get drafted as a No. 3 Fantasy WR right now but he might just as easily become a No. 2 option depending on what his situation looks like come training camp.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Vikings WR Sidney Rice could leave Minnesota if he's allowed to be considered an unrestricted free agent. Depending on the new CBA, Rice could either be a restricted or unrestricted free agent, and the Vikings have given him a first-round tender offer.
Analysis: The Vikings will likely do what they can to keep Rice in 2011, but they might not have a choice if he's unrestricted and wants to play elsewhere. Rice will likely seek a long-term contract, and he could look to leave the Vikings. His Fantasy value for 2011 will be determined where he plays, and hopefully he ends up with a quality QB. The Vikings will be looking for a new starter this season, so Rice might be better off going elsewhere to improve his value heading into 2011. In 2010, Rice was limited with a hip injury and a concussion and did not play at the high level we saw from him as a breakout star in 2009.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Vikings WR Sidney Rice had a first-round tender placed on him Wednesday despite the fact he could become an unrestricted free agent once a new collective bargaining agreement is complete. Under the current CBA, which will expire Thursday night, Rice is a restricted free agent because he has four years of service. Before 2010, players with four or more years in the NFL became unrestricted free agents but that changed in the final year of the CBA and only players with six or more years of service were unrestricted.Putting the first-round tender on Rice means that if he ends up restricted the Vikings would get a first-round pick if he signs elsewhere and Minnesota does not match. Rice's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, said last Sunday that his client would test the free-agent market before re-signing, even though it's not certain he will be free to do so.
Analysis: Rice will likely seek a long-term contract, and he could look to leave the Vikings. His Fantasy value for 2011 will be determined where he plays, and hopefully he ends up with a quality QB. The Vikings will be looking for a new starter this season, so Rice might be better off going elsewhere to improve his value heading into 2011. In 2010, Rice was limited with a hip injury and a concussion and did not play at the high level we saw from him as a breakout star in 2009.
News: According to a report on ESPN, Drew Rosenhaus said his client, Vikings WR Sidney Rice, will not re-sign with Minnesota before first testing free agency. The Vikings, however, have said previously they are working on a deal to keep Rice in Minnesota for 2011 and beyond. "Hopefully we'll be able to get Sidney under contract this year," vice president of player personnel Rick Spielman said.
Analysis: The collective bargaining agreement will likely determine what the Vikings are able to do with Rice in 2011, but don't be surprised if he shops his services around the league. We still expect the Vikings to make a strong push to keep him, but a lot will be determined once players are allowed to test free agency. His Fantasy value for 2011 will be determined where he plays, and hopefully he ends up with a quality QB. The Vikings will be looking for a new starter this season, so Rice might be better off going elsewhere to improve his value heading into 2011. In 2010, Rice was limited with a hip injury and a concussion and did not play at the high level we saw from him as a breakout star in 2009.
News: The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports Friday that close friends of Vikings WR Sidney Rice claim the surgery he had on his hip in 2010 didn't cure the problem, that he played in pain when he returned to the lineup and that the problem is arthritis and it's still troubling him. But coach Leslie Frazier said the Vikings have no health-related concerns about Rice, who is an impending free agent. The St. Paul Pioneer Press also reports that the Vikings are trying to work on a deal to keep Rice in Minnesota for 2011 and beyond. "Hopefully we'll be able to get Sidney under contract this year," vice president of player personnel Rick Spielman said.
Analysis: We expect Rice to be fine for the start of the 2011 season. Rice will likely seek a long-term contract, and he could look to leave the Vikings. His Fantasy value for 2011 will be determined where he plays, and hopefully he ends up with a quality QB. The Vikings will be looking for a new starter this season, so Rice might be better off going elsewhere to improve his value heading into 2011. In 2010, Rice was limited with a hip injury and a concussion and did not play at the high level we saw from him as a breakout star in 2009.
News: The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports that the Vikings are trying to work on a deal to keep free agent WR Sidney Rice in Minnesota for 2011. Rice, for example, could be a restricted free agent under the new collective bargaining agreement, which would allow the Vikings to sign him to a one-year tender. But that's not an option right now. "Hopefully we'll be able to get Sidney under contract this year," vice president of player personnel Rick Spielman said.
Analysis: Rice will likely seek a long-term contract, and he could look to leave the Vikings. His Fantasy value for 2011 will be determined where he plays, and hopefully he ends up with a quality QB. The Vikings will be looking for a new starter this season, so Rice might be better off going elsewhere to improve his value heading into 2011. In 2010, Rice was limited with a hip injury and a concussion and did not play at the high level we saw from him as a breakout star in 2009.
News: The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports that Vikings vice president of player personnel Rick Spielman said Tuesday that he would like to retain WR Sidney Rice, who is an impending free agent. Spielman said Rice is one of "those guys we want to have back on our roster." It is possible the Vikings could use the franchise tag on Rice, but the report said Spielman has not decided whether or not to use the tag at all this year.
Analysis: Rice will likely seek a long-term contract, and he could look to leave the Vikings. His Fantasy value for 2011 will be determined where he plays, and hopefully he ends up with a quality QB. The Vikings will be looking for a new starter this season, so Rice might be better off going elsewhere to improve his value heading into 2011. In 2010, Rice was limited with a hip injury and a concussion and did not play at the high level we saw from him as a breakout star in 2009.
News: The Vikings listed WR Sidney Rice (concussion) as inactive for the team's regular season finale in Detroit. He had been listed as doubtful on the injury report.
Analysis: With the Vikings QB situation being shaky due to an aging banged up Brett Favre in 2010, Sidney Rice's numbers struggled. Along with Percy Harvin, however, Rice figures to be a top receiving threat for the Vikings going forward. Once Minnesota settles their QB situation, Rice should return to being a viable No. 2/3 WR option worthy of a mid-round pick in 2011.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (concussion) remained unable to practice Friday as Minnesota finished up preparations for its Week 17 game at Detroit. Rice might try to take the concussion test again before Sunday, but is listed as doubtful.
Analysis: With the short turnaround in Week 17, the fact Rice has already endured an injury-plagued season and the Vikings have nothing on the line, you would expect Rice to sit out Sunday. But he hasn't been ruled out, so there is still a ray of hope he dresses. Even then, Rice's numbers have been awful with QB Joe Webb running the show, so he remains at best a No. 4 Fantasy WR or flex option for Week 17.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (concussion) did not practice Thursday as Minnesota did a walk-through in preparation for its Week 17 game at Detroit.
Analysis: With the short turnaround in Week 17, the fact Rice has already endured an injury-plagued season and the Vikings have nothing on the line, you would expect Rice to sit out Sunday. But he hasn't been ruled out, so there is still a ray of hope he dresses. Even then, Rice's numbers have been awful with QB Joe Webb running the show, so he remains at best a No. 4 Fantasy WR or flex option for Week 17.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice did not practice Wednesday because of a concussion he suffered Tuesday against the Eagles. Rice has to pass a concussion test before being cleared for Week 17 against the Lions.
Analysis: With the short turnaround in Week 17, the fact Rice has already endured an injury-plagued season and the Vikings have nothing on the line, you would expect Rice to sit out Sunday. But he hasn't been ruled out, so there is still a ray of hope he dresses. Even then, Rice's numbers have been awful with QB Joe Webb running the show, so he remains at best a No. 4 Fantasy WR or flex option for Week 17.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice had an awful game in the Week 16 contest on Tuesday night in Philadelphia. With both teams playing extremely sloppily offensively, Rice was barely even targeted by QB Joe Webb in the game. He didn't have a catch before midway through the third quarter and ultimately suffered an injury on that catch. Rice caught a 16-yard pass from Webb and was leveled by Asante Samuel on a helmet-to-helmet hit that could cost Samuels and was a 15-yard penalty. Rice could not return to the game with a head injury. He was targeted five times and made one grab.
Analysis: Rice was targeted a few times, but didn't have a single catch before halftime. He was targeted in the end zone just after the break, but couldn't come down with the completion. With Percy Harvin clearly the favorite target of Webb, the quarterback had trouble getting the ball to anyone else consistently. Since Webb should continue starting in the regular-season finale at Detroit in Week 17, Rice could struggle once again, though a random touchdown appears to always be a possibility. With three straight mediocre weeks, Rice should be considered no more than a No. 3 Fantasy WR in the season's final week against the Lions, if he's even healthy.
News: The NFL postponed the Week 16 contest between the Eagles and Vikings due to a blizzard in the Philadelphia area. As a result, the game will be played on Tuesday night at 8 p.m. ET.
Analysis: Rice needs just five catches to reach 150 for his career, and he'll get a shot at it in the Week 16 game against the Eagles. Philadelphia ranks in the bottom-half of the NFL in passing defense, and WRs have put up gaudy numbers against the team in three of the last four weeks. Still, Rice has had only one big game since coming back from a hip injury. Rice went for more than 100 yards and two scores against the Bills, but he has failed to rack up more than 60 yards in the other four games. Two extra days may provide Brett Favre with a chance to play, but Joe Webb is still expected to play. Consider him to be a high-end No. 4 Fantasy WR or flex option in Week 16.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice needs just five catches to reach 150 for his career, and he'll get a shot at it in the Week 16 game against the Eagles. Philadelphia ranks in the bottom-half of the NFL in passing defense, and WRs have put up gaudy numbers against the team in three of the last four weeks. Still, Rice has had only one big game since coming back from a hip injury. Rice went for more than 100 yards and two scores against the Bills, but he has failed to rack up more than 60 yards in the other four games.
Analysis: Rice has been iffy since he returned to the lineup, and now the team is dealing with an ongoing situation at quarterback. Brett Favre (concussion) looks like he will not be able to play on Sunday, leaving rookie Joe Webb at the helm. The rookie is more of a running QB, but that has a slight chance of actually helping Rice if he utilizes the mobility to allow his WRs to work to get open down the field. The size of Rice could present a big problem for the Eagles, who will likely go after Webb with different blitzes, leaving him against fewer defenders in space. Still, Webb is as inexperienced as it gets and Rice does not quite seem 100 percent heading into Sunday night. Consider him to be a high-end No. 4 Fantasy WR or flex option in Week 16.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice was not much of a factor in Week 15 against the Bears. Rice was targeted five times in the 40-14 loss and finished with just two receptions for 23 yards. He had a long of 23 yards in the contest.
Analysis: Rice was pretty much a non-factor on Monday night, but then again nobody really was after Brett Favre got knocked out with a concussion. Rookie Joe Webb struggled in the elements in relief of Favre and appears to be in line to make his first NFL start next week against the Eagles. While Webb is a far cry from Favre, Rice is a big receiver that can make plays, especially in the red zone. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR heading into Week 16 against Philadelphia.
News: So maybe Brett Favre isn't quite done yet. The Vikings said Favre has been upgraded to questionable for Monday night's game against the Chicago Bears. Spokesman Bob Hagan says the team will watch Favre throw about two hours before kickoff and decide whether Favre can suit up for the outdoors game at the University of Minnesota's TCF Bank Stadium. Favre didn't practice all week because of a sprained throwing shoulder. The injury kept Favre out of last week's loss to the New York Giants and ended his NFL-record straight of 297 straight regular-season starts. Rookie Joe Webb is slated to start against the Bears, who can wrap up the NFC North title with a win. If Favre is able to start that would help out the receivers like Sidney Rice and Percy Harvin.
Analysis: Rice enters Week 15 against the Bears coming off back-to-back solid performances and will look to keep things going. Chicago ranks 18th in the league against the pass, allowing nearly 226 yards per game, and have given up an average of 18.4 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. In five career games against the division foe, Rice has caught 15 passes for 176 yards and a touchdown. With a healthy Favre, Rice would be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR in the majority of leagues. With Webb, Rice would not be worth using in most formats. Stay tuned to what develops before the game to determine what happens with Rice.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice enters Week 15 against the Bears coming off back-to-back solid performances and will look to keep things going. Chicago ranks 18th in the league against the pass, allowing nearly 226 yards per game, and have given up an average of 18.4 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. In five career games against the division foe, Rice has caught 15 passes for 176 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: After missing most of the year due to injury, Rice has come alive in recent weeks and could be in line for another solid game on Monday night. Chicago allowed QB Tom Brady to throw for 369 yards and two scores a week ago. With QB Tarvaris Jackson done for the year, rookie Joe Webb might be throwing passes Rice's way unless Brett Favre can make a miraculous recovery. Webb is a far cry from Brady but Rice is a big receiver that can make plays, especially in the red zone. Rice should be considered a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 15.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice was fairly productive in Week 14 against the Giants. Rice was targeted a team-high 12 times in the 21-3 loss and finished with five receptions for 60 yards. Rice did most of his damage in the first half as he had just one reception after halftime. He almost had a touchdown reception early in the game , but Terrell Thomas swiped the ball away at the last moment. Rice averaged 12 yards per reception and had a long of 22 yards in the contest.
Analysis: Rice quietly had himself a decent game on Monday and probably was the Vikings most offense player. He has now racked up 14 receptions for 241 yards and two touchdowns since he returned from a hip injury. Rice is the Vikings lone big-play receiver with Percy Harvin out, but unfortunately might not have anyone to throw him the ball. Brett Favre's status is still up in the air and Tarvaris Jackson suffered a knee injury late in Monday night's game. That would leave rookie Joe Webb as Minnesota's only healthy QB heading into Week 15 against the Bears. Despite the Vikings' desperate quarterback situation, Rice can be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR heading into Week 15.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) was active for Week 14 against the Giants. After practicing in a limited capacity most of the week, he returned to full participation on Friday. He practiced more this week than he did heading into Week 13, when he ended up breaking 100 yards receiving and scoring two touchdowns in the process. With Brett Favre (shoulder) inactive for Monday's matchup, Rice caught passes from Tarvaris Jackson. WR Percy Harvin (illness) was also inactive for Week 14.
Analysis: Rice really benefited from Harvin being inactive Week 13, however, he is probably in for a big letdown in Week 14 for Fantasy owners. The Giants are second in pass defense, allowing 192.8 yards per game, and have given up an average of just 18.8 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts, which is tied for ninth lowest in the NFL. Rice had 22 Fantasy points alone last week. Jackson and Rice had a solid showing their last time out, but New York and Buffalo are not in the same stratosphere of competition. Consider Rice a No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option for Week 14, now that he has been ruled active.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) is listed as probable heading into the Week 14 game against the Giants. That's assuring enough for his owners, but now that the game has been shifted to Monday night -- due to bad weather -- Rice should be a lock to play. After practicing in a limited capacity most of the week, he returned to full participation on Friday. He practiced more this week than he did heading into Week 13, when he ended up breaking 100 yards receiving and scoring two touchdowns in the process. Still, on Thursday his offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell said he was not "all the way back." "You can see in practice there are still things he can work on," Bevell said.
Analysis: Rice might not be all the way back, according to his OC, but that should only entice Fantasy owners to trust Rice even more moving forward, but maybe not so much this week. Rice really benefited from Percy Harvin being inactive Week 13, and Harvin might well not play again in Week 14 as he continues to miss practice with his migraine issues, he is listed as doubtful. However, Rice is probably in for a big letdown in Week 14 for Fantasy owners. The Giants are second in pass defense, allowing 192.8 yards per game. The Giants are also allowing WRs to average just 18.8 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for ninth lowest in the NFL. Rice had 22 Fantasy points alone last week. If Harvin sits out again Week 14, then Rice stands to benefit. Keep tabs on the ongoings in Minnesota, but look to Rice as a potential No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) is listed as probable heading into the Week 14 game against the Giants. After practicing in a limited capacity most of the week, he returned to full participation on Friday. He practiced more this week than he did heading into Week 13, when he ended up breaking 100 yards receiving and scoring two touchdowns in the process. Still, on Thursday his offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell said he was not "all the way back." "You can see in practice there are still things he can work on," Bevell said.
Analysis: Rice might not be all the way back, according to his OC, but that should only entice Fantasy owners to trust Rice even more moving forward, but maybe not so much this week. Rice really benefited from Percy Harvin being inactive Week 13, and Harvin might well not play again in Week 14 as he continues to miss practice with his migraine issues, he is listed as doubtful. However, Rice is probably in for a big letdown in Week 14 for Fantasy owners. The Giants are second in pass defense, allowing 192.8 yards per game. The Giants are also allowing WRs to average just 18.8 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for ninth lowest in the NFL. Rice had 22 Fantasy points alone last week. If Harvin sits out again Week 14, then Rice stands to benefit. Keep tabs on the ongoings in Minnesota, but look to Rice as a potential No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option.
News: A day after saying his surgically-repaired hip is holding up, Vikings offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell doesn't think WR Sidney Rice is 100 percent yet. "I don’t think he’s all the way back," Bevell said. "You can see in practice there are still things he can work on." Rice, who continues to be limited in practice leading up to Week 14 against the Giants, was the third best scoring wide receiver in standard Fantasy formats in Week 13 after his surprising 105-yard, two-touchdown outburst against the Bills. It was just his third game of the season after preseason hip surgery kept him out most of the season.
Analysis: It's interesting to hear Rice's own offensive coordinator doubt that he is 100 percent, even though Rice made some pretty nice catches on Sunday. But as long as Rice suffers no setbacks with his hip, then he should play Week 14. Rice really benefited from Percy Harvin being inactive Week 13, and Harvin might well not play again in Week 14 as he continues to miss practice with his migraine issues. However, Rice is probably in for a big letdown in Week 14 for Fantasy owners. The Giants are second in pass defense, allowing 192.8 yards per game. The Giants are also allowing WRs to average just 18.8 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for ninth lowest in the NFL. Rice had 22 Fantasy points alone last week. If Harvin sits out again Week 14, then Rice stands to benefit. Keep tabs on the ongoings in Minnesota, but look to Rice as a potential No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) was limited at practice for a second straight day Thursday. Rice was the third best scoring wide receiver in standard Fantasy formats in Week 13 after his surprising 105-yard, two-touchdown outburst against the Bills. It was just his third game of the season after preseason hip surgery kept him out most of the season. Although, Rice says his right hip feels good and he didn't feel any pain on his touchdown receptions Sunday. Next up for Rice and the Vikings is a showdown with the Giants in Week 14.
Analysis: Rice really benefited from Percy Harvin being inactive Week 13, and Harvin might well not play again in Week 14 as he continues to miss practice with his migraine issues. Also, one of Rice's touchdown catches was a great grab over two Buffalo defenders, so his day could have been average had he not made that spectacular catch. It's great to see Rice feeling well and he appears back to normal, but he is probably in for a big letdown in Week 14 for Fantasy owners. The Giants are second in pass defense, allowing 192.8 yards per game. The Giants are also allowing WRs to average just 18.8 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for ninth lowest in the NFL. Rice had 22 Fantasy points alone last week. If Harvin sits out again Week 14, then Rice stands to benefit. Keep tabs on the ongoings in Minnesota, but look to Rice as a potential No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice was the third best scoring wide receiver in standard Fantasy formats in Week 13 after his surprising 105-yard, two-touchdown outburst against the Bills. It was just his third game of the season after preseason hip surgery kept him out most of the season. Although, Rice says his right hip feels good and he didn't feel any pain on his touchdown receptions Sunday. "I was a little surprised. But I didn’t feel any pain and it didn’t bother me after the game so I was happy about that," Rice said. Next up for Rice and the Vikings is a showdown with the Giants in Week 14.
Analysis: Rice really benefited from Percy Harvin being inactive Week 13. Also, one of his touchdown catches was a great grab over two Buffalo defenders, so his day could have been average had he not made that spectacular catch. It's great to see Rice feeling well and he appears back to normal, but he is probably in for a big letdown in Week 14 for Fantasy owners. The Giants are second in pass defense, allowing 192.8 yards per game. The Giants are also allowing WRs to average just 18.8 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for ninth lowest in the NFL. Rice had 22 Fantasy points alone last week. If Harvin sits out again Week 14, then Rice stands to benefit. Keep tabs on the ongoings in Minnesota, but look to Rice as a potential No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice broke out in a big way in Week 13, as he caught five passes for 105 yards and two touchdowns in a 38-14 win over Buffalo. This was Rice's third game of the season, because he missed the first nine games as he recovered from hip surgery. He had not scored a touchdown in his first two games and produced a total of 76 receiving yards coming into this game. Rice's first touchdown came on a dramatic play in which he made a 31-yard catch from QB Tarvaris Jackson while fending off Bills DB Leodis McKelvin, who also had a grip on the ball. The play was initially ruled as incomplete, but a review showed that Rice had both feet in bounds.
Analysis: Rice had his first big game of the year on a day where RB Adrian Peterson was a game-time decision and QB Brett Favre was knocked out early with a shoulder injury. Despite all of the uncertainties, the Vikings had themselves an easy win, and Rice was a huge part of it. WR Percy Harvin (migraine) could return for Week 14, which could cut into Rice's targets, but owners have to consider Rice as a potential starter for the Vikings' upcoming game against the Giants.
News: As expected, Vikings WR Sidney Rice was listed as active for Week 13 against Buffalo. He missed practice on Thursday in order to rest his surgically repaired hip.
Analysis: Particularly with RB Adrian Peterson ready to play, the Vikings won't need to test Rice's hip more than necessary. He is a risky start in most formats. He can be used as a No. 3 Fantasy WR, at least until he starts to show some production.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) is listed as probable heading into the Week 13 matchup with the Bills. He was limited on Wednesday before resting the surgically repaired hip on Thursday. Friday he was back at full speed and he should be good to go for Sunday. "I feel like I am getting better," Rice said Thursday. "The more reps I get and the more game time I get, I am getting better and better each day." If he's healthy enough to play in Week 13, Rice will go up against a pass defense that ranks 11th in the league. Factor in that the Bills also possess the league's most porous run defense, and Rice could have a difficult time increasing his production, as the Vikings could go to the run more than usual.
Analysis: If Adrian Peterson's ankle keeps him out of this Week 13 matchup, the Vikings could go to the air more than they would otherwise, but either way, Rice is a risky play. Owners should view him as a No. 3 Fantasy WR until his production starts to pick up. He is missing some practice time during the week to make sure he has no setbacks with his hip. But if he is ever in jeopardy of missing a game, then we will let you know.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice rested his surgically repaired hip Thursday as Minnesota continued preparations for its Week 13 game vs. Buffalo. Rice says there is still some pain in his surgically repaired hip. "I feel like I am getting better," Rice said. "The more reps I get and the more game time I get, I am getting better and better each day." If he's healthy enough to play in Week 13, Rice will go up against a pass defense that ranks 11th in the league. Factor in that the Bills also possess the league's most porous run defense, and Rice could have a difficult time increasing his production, as the Vikings could go to the run more than usual.
Analysis: If Adrian Peterson's ankle keeps him out of this Week 13 matchup, the Vikings could go to the air more than they would otherwise, but either way, Rice is a risky play. Owners should view him as a No. 3 Fantasy WR until his production starts to pick up. He is missing some practice time during the week to make sure he has no setbacks with his hip. But if he is ever in jeopardy of missing a game, then we will let you know.
News: In his second week back from a hip injury, Vikings WR Sidney Rice made only one catch for 20 yards against a subpar Redskins pass defense in Week 12. In facing the Bills in Week 13, Rice will go up against a pass defense that ranks 11th in the league. Factor in that the Bills also possess the league's most porous run defense, and Rice could have a difficult time increasing his production, as the Vikings could go to the run more than usual.
Analysis: If Adrian Peterson's ankle keeps him out of this Week 13 matchup, the Vikings could go to the air more than they would otherwise, but either way, Rice is a risky play. Owners should view him as a No. 3 Fantasy WR until his production starts to pick up. He is missing some practice time during the week to make sure he has no setbacks with his surgically-repaired hip. But if he is ever in jeopardy of missing a game, then we will let you know.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice managed just one catch for 20 yards in the Week 12 victory in Washington. Minnesota QB Brett Favre managed just 172 yards passing in the game total and no Viking receiver posted solid numbers. That said, Rice was targeted four times in the game and only came down with one reception.
Analysis: Rice has four catches for 76 yards in his two games since returning from a hip injury. The only thing he's done so far is take away Fantasy value from his fellow wideouts. Favre has not been consistent this season and Rice doesn't have much background for success this year. He's always been Favre's top option in the past, but Percy Harvin is now around to take away touches. Minnesota plays Buffalo in Week 13. The Bills can't stop the run so expect a heavy dose of Adrian Peterson. Rice is going to be a No. 3 Fantasy WR, at best, for the Week 13 game.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice will start Week 12 at Washington in Bernard Berrian's spot. Berrian is inactive for the game. Rice was dealing with a hip injury after catching three passes in the Week 11 game in his return.
Analysis: Rice may have been limited against the Packers as it was his first game all year. He should be a lot more comfortable this time around. That said, the Vikings are in a bit of turmoil having just fired head coach Brad Childress. Still, the Redskins are allowing the second-most average Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers and it looks like Rice could go right back to being Favre's favorite target. Consider Rice as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) returned to practice Friday after missing one day. Rice sat out Thursday's practice but that appeared to be more precautionary than anything serious. Rice went through an entire practice on Wednesday and the coaching staff might have given him a day to recover. He is officially listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Washington in Week 12. Coach Leslie Frazier says he thinks Rice "is going to be fine."
Analysis: We would expect Rice to play against the Redskins, but keep an eye on his official status Sunday by checking in with Fantasy Football Today at 11 a.m. ET right here on CBSSports.com. Last week against Green Bay, Rice played and caught three passes for 56 yards on 10 targets. He should be considered a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR against the Redskins.
News: A day after practicing in full, Vikings WR Sidney Rice didn't practice at all on Thursday as he continues working his way back from a hip injury. Rice played last week and even caught three passes for 59 yards, and the expectation was that he would play going forward. Rice and the Vikings play at the Redskins in Week 12.
Analysis: Hopefully Rice didn't suffer a setback and misses more time -- the matchup at Washington is pretty good for him. The Redskins are allowing the second-most average Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers and it looks like Rice could go right back to being Favre's favorite target. Consider Rice as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 12, but one with the upside to surprise and have a great game -- if he's healthy. We'll have an update on Friday.
News: Vikings receiver Sidney Rice's health appears to be a certainty for the first time all season after he debuted last week against Green Bay. On Wednesday, he practiced without limitation. Rice caught three passes for 56 yards in the Week 11 loss. He showed his rust but Brett Favre still looked his way on 10 pass attempts. Rice and the Vikings head to Washington for Week 12 and this could be his breakout game.
Analysis: Rice may have been limited against the Packers as it was his first game all year. He should be a lot more comfortable this time around. That said, the Vikings are in a bit of turmoil having just fired head coach Brad Childress. Still, the Redskins are allowing the second-most average Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers and it looks like Rice could go right back to being Favre's favorite target. Consider Rice as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 12, but one with the upside to surprise and have a great game.
News: Vikings receiver Sidney Rice's health appears to be a certainty for the first time all season after he debuted last week against Green Bay. Rice caught three passes for 56 yards in the Week 11 loss. He showed his rust but Brett Favre still looked his way on 10 pass attempts. Rice and the Vikings head to Washington for Week 12 and this could be his breakout game.
Analysis: Rice may have been limited against the Packers as it was his first game all year. He should be a lot more comfortable this time around. That said, the Vikings are in a bit of turmoil having just fired head coach Brad Childress. Still, the Redskins are allowing the second-most average Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers and it looks like Rice could go right back to being Favre's favorite target. Consider Rice as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 12, but one with the upside to surprise and have a great game.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice didn't explode back onto the NFL scene in Week 11 against the Packers, but he was targeted on 10 of QB Brett Favre's 38 passes and managed to haul in three grabs for 56 yards.
Analysis: Rice was in on 10 of Vikings' first 13 offensive plays and showed some nice burst when he did get his hands on the ball. Favre just wasn't very accurate on Sunday, otherwise Rice might have produced a better stat line in his season debut. In Week 12, Rice's hip will be one more week healed and he might well be worth using in deeper formats against the Redskins.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) was not listed among the inactives for Week 11 and will make his season debut against the Packers.
Analysis: Rice is off the PUP list and officially back with Minnesota. Now Fantasy owners just have to decide if he's ready to return to Fantasy viability. Rice suggested earlier this week that he likely won't see a full game's worth of action on Sunday, so until he proves his health on the field, we suggest Fantasy owners continue to stash him for now.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice was removed off the PUP list on Saturday, reports NFL.com. Rice is questionable to play in the Week 11 game against Green Bay but said that he would try to give it a go. "I'm going to play," Rice told ESPN on Friday. "I don't think I can go the whole game but I'm going to play as much as I can." "He wants to be able to play like he did last year. I do too," QB Brett Favre said last week, adding: "I wanted him eight, nine weeks ago. He can't get here soon enough. I do want him, when he steps on for good, to feel confident that he's not going to look back."
Analysis: Rice is off the PUP list and officially back with Minnesota. Now Fantasy owners just have to decide if he's ready to return to Fantasy viability. Rice suggests that even if he plays on Sunday, it likely won't be a full game's worth of action. Until he proves his health on the field, we suggest Fantasy owners continue to stash him.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) said Friday that he will play in Week 11 vs. Green Bay. "I'm going to play," Rice told ESPN. "I don't think I can go the whole game but I'm going to play as much as I can." The Vikings have until Saturday afternoon to bring Rice off the PUP if he's going to be able to play on Sunday.
Analysis: For the last week, Rice has been fighting off rumors that he's likely to be shut down for the season, and it looks for now like Rice's owners made the right call in stashing him away. If Rice does indeed suit up for the Vikings on Sunday, he will help a group that has been depleted by injuries. But how much of an impact he will make in his first game back is uncertain. If you're desperate for WR help in Week 11 you could give Rice a shot if absolutely necessary.
News: The NFL Network' reports that Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) is "almost certain" to play in Week 11 against the Packers. Vikings coach Brad Childress said Friday that if Rice isn't active in Week 11, he likely will be done for the season. The Vikings have until Saturday afternoon to bring him off the PUP if he's going to be able to play on Sunday.
Analysis: For the last week, Rice has been fighting off rumors that he's likely to be shut down for the season, and we'll find out in just about 24 hours or so if Rice's owners might the right call in stashing him away or not. If Rice does suit up for the Vikings on Sunday, he will help a group that has been depleted by injuries. But how much of an impact he will make in his first game back is uncertain. Continue to stash Rice in Fantasy leagues, but check back on Saturday evening for the big news.
News: Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Sidney Rice bristled at the notion that he's taking his time to come back from hip surgery, saying Wednesday he wants nothing more than to play against the Packers in Week 11. Rice had the procedure in late August and hasn't played this season. He returned to practice two weeks ago, and the Vikings have one week left to move him from the physically unable to perform list to the active roster before he'll be ineligible to play at all this year. After addressing reporters in the locker room, Rice posted an entry on his blog at sidneyrice18.com titled "A Bunch of Bull" in which he adamantly denied a disinterest in playing this season for self-protection reasons. "I wouldn't dare do the fans or my teammates like that," Rice wrote. He also reiterated he plans to play on Sunday against Green Bay and defended his decision to sit out last week at Chicago. "I went pretty hard in practice Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and I was feeling significant discomfort Friday and Saturday when I woke up," Rice wrote. "So I decided not to go out there and risk getting hurt or, in my eyes, hurting the team by playing before I was ready and taking away from the team by not getting healthy."
Analysis: Rice has full clearance from the team's medical staff, and the Vikings have put the final decision about when he's ready in his Rice's hands. Neither the Vikings nor Rice have described the surgery or the injury in detail, but Rice said it was "very serious." He said he's been trying his best to get back on the field. When asked if he's confident Rice will play this year, coach Brad Childress said he didn't know. He said Rice is not being coerced to return sooner than he's ready. Rice's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, said Wednesday he expects Rice to play this season. Whether that is Week 11 or not we will have to wait and see. If Rice does suit up for the Vikings, he will help a group that has been depleted by injuries. But how much of an impact he will make in his first game back is uncertain. Continue to stash Rice in Fantasy leagues, but check back later in the week for an update on his status.
News: Drew Rosenhaus, the agent for Vikings WR Sidney Rice, said Wednesday that he expects his client to play in 2010. "I'm hopeful he will be healthy enough to play this week. We've never given any consideration to him not playing this season," said Rosenhaus.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should take this news with a grain of salt, as of course an agent is going to want to try and debunk any negative news about his client. We'll find out in a week for sure whether Rice will play this season, as the Vikings have until next Wednesday to activate him, otherwise he goes on IR. Continue to stash Rice away if you can afford to, as he is capable of putting up No. 1 Fantasy numbers when healthy.
News: Speculation from the Minneapolis Star Tribune matches some of the speculation we've noted here at CBSSports.com: Vikings WR Sidney Rice could opt to sit out the remainder of the season so he doesn't further injure himself. The Vikings are 3-6, so playoff hopes are thin, and Rice could choose to rest his body after having major hip surgery in July rather than play and risk getting hurt again. Rice is in a contract year too, so an injury or poor play on his part could hurt his chances of getting a big pay day. Furthermore, Vikings head coach Brad Childress has said previously that it's up to Rice when he wants to play, but Rice said last week he was experiencing soreness.
Analysis: Rice is worth holding on to if you have the available roster space, but if there's a quality player or a guy you need to help your Fantasy team for the playoff run, you're better served going with the alternative to Rice. We'll keep you posted on his progress.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) was not activated off of the PUP list for the Week 10 game against the Bears, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. All week, the decision was up to Rice himself, so obviously he wasn't up enough to make his 2010 season debut on Sunday He had until 3 p.m. Saturday to make the decision.
Analysis: Fantasy owners will have to wait one more week for Rice to play, which would put his return against the Green Bay Packers in Week 11. Continue to monitor his health throughout next week to see what kind of option he will be for Brett Favre against his former team.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) said Friday he hasn't decided whether he will play Sunday against the Bears. Rice has until 3 p.m. Saturday to be removed from the PUP list if he's going to feature at Soldier Field. ESPN reported earlier Friday that Rice would see maybe 10-15 snaps if he does play. The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports two sources close to the situation say Rice will debut in Week 10.
Analysis: Until we hear something official from the team about Rice's status, keep him benched in all formats. Even when he returns he's expected to see limited snaps until he's back at full strength again. Continue to stash Rice away, as this is a guy who could certainly help you in a big way down the stretch if he plays anything like he did last season.
News: Vikings coach Brad Childress on Sidney Rice, after watching his receiver work out on Thursday: '(He) practiced very hard today so I'll be interested to watch him comeback again tomorrow."
Analysis: Rice is expected to return soon, but until we hear something official from the team our take is that owners should keep him benched. He will have to be activated from the PUP list on Saturday afternoon if he's to play on Sunday. Even when he returns he's expected to play about 30 reps until he kicks the rust off. If you're desperate to maximize roster space, Rice shouldn't be on your team. But the mere fact that he's still available in over 30 percent of CBSSports.com leagues means that owners should still check for him off waivers.
News: Vikings head coach Brad Childress said Wednesday that he's not sure yet whether wide receiver Sidney Rice will be able to play this Sunday at Chicago and complete his comeback from hip surgery. He has been cleared for it by doctors and has practiced with the team but is not yet part of the active roster. The Vikings still have a spot open on the active roster for him, but he remains on the active/PUP list for now. Meanwhile, Bears head coach Lovie Smith says he thinks Rice will play against his team in Week 10. "I assume when you are even cleared to go, and you practice full on [Wednesday], you'll be playing," Smith said. "We are definitely planning on him playing this week."
Analysis: Rice is expected to return soon, but until we hear something official from the team our take is that owners should keep him benched. Even when he returns he's expected to play about 30 reps until he kicks the rust off. If you're desperate to maximize roster space, Rice shouldn't be on your team. But the mere fact that he's still available in over 30 percent of CBSSports.com leagues means that owners should still check for him off waivers.
News: The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports Monday that Vikings coach Brad Childress said WR Sidney Rice (hip) return is still uncertain, but Childress said Rice could be involved in 30-35 snaps upon his return. Rice is not expected to play in Week 10 at Chicago unless he has a great week of practice leading up to the game.
Analysis: Continue to monitor Rice's progress and hope he can return soon. He has the potential to be a starting Fantasy option when healthy, so keep him stashed on your bench for Week 10 barring a change in his recovery. Hopefully we can see Rice on the field by Week 12, which would then allow us at least two weeks to know if Rice is worth using around the time the Fantasy playoffs begin.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) was on the field warming up prior to the Week 9 game against the Cardinals, but he was not activated prior to the game. He was not expected to play, though the team kept a spot on the 53-man roster open in case he was ready.
Analysis: Rice sat this one out, and now the Vikings have two weeks to decide whether to activate him. It is advisable to keep him stashed for now, though with the departure of Randy Moss to Tennessee, Rice could pay off in most formats once he is healthy enough to play.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice still has no set timetable for a return to the playing field on game day, but he has progressed in practice this week. "He's made it through the whole practices but in a different kind of capacity," coach Brad Childress told the Minneapolis Star Tribune. "He's taken turns with our starters, he's taken a lot of turns on the scout team. He takes the whole game plan in and goes through it. He's working through some soreness right now. You might say he could play in a limited sector, that's all still being determined. I think probably next week's probably more viable, but we're still going to see."
Analysis: Randy Moss is now in Tennessee, so one would assume Rice would assume his 2009 role as the team's go-to-guy once he returns. Rice was removed from the PUP list on Wednesday and Minnesota has three weeks to decide whether to activate him or not. Rice said he "felt great" running in his return to practice this week, but he acknowledged he still has soreness and tightness. Asked repeatedly about when he might reappear on the field for a game, Rice politely declined to declare a timetable and said he'll be back simply when he's "in great shape."Yes, it might take him a while to get back up to speed, but Rice could be a superb contributor down the stretch in all Fantasy formats. Remember, this is a guy who put up 1,312 yards and eight touchdowns last season.
News: Vikings coach Brad Childress said Thursday he doesn't have a timetable on WR Sidney Rice's return but that he "most probably" won't play in Week 9 vs. Arizona. Rice was removed from the PUP list on Wednesday and Minnesota has three weeks to decide whether to activate him or not. Rice said he "felt great" running in his return to practice this week, but he acknowledged he still has soreness and tightness. Asked repeatedly about when he might reappear on the field for a game, Rice politely declined to declare a timetable and said he'll be back simply when he's "in great shape." "It's a violent league, and I definitely want to be able to protect myself when I'm out there," Rice said.
Analysis: With Randy Moss gone, Rice should resume his role as the top receiver in Minnesota once he's healthy. If you're in a league where Rice is still available (40 percent of leagues) and have a receiver on your bench that you're unlikely to start the rest of the way barring injury, then take a shot with Rice. Remember, this is a guy who put up 1,312 yards and eight touchdowns last season. Yes, it might take him a while to get back up to speed, but Rice could be a superb contributor down the stretch in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Vikings removed WR Sidney Rice (hip) from the PUP list on Wednesday. They now have three weeks to activate him or to put him on season-ending IR. Rice was running and cutting at full speed during practice but was working with the scout team. "We'll just see how he progresses here. He's done everything that he can do from a rehabilitation standpoint," coach Brad Childress said. "There's going to be a conditioning aspect that's got to be met. Obviously football's a physical game: the pounding, running on the turf, the full-speed routes. We'll just see how he comes through that."
Analysis: This is great news for Rice and his owners, as with Randy Moss gone, Rice should resume his role as the top receiver in Minnesota once he's healthy. If you're in a league where Rice is still available (51 percent of leagues) and have a receiver on your bench that you're unlikely to start the rest of the way barring injury, then take a shot with Rice. Remember, this is a guy who put up 1,312 yards and eight touchdowns last season. Yes, it might take him a while to get back up to speed, but Rice could be a superb contributor down the stretch in all Fantasy formats.
News:Sidney Rice remains on the PUP list, but ESPN reported on Monday that Rice is expected to be activated soon even though he's not likely to play for at least a couple of weeks. The Vikings have parted ways with WR Randy Moss, opening the door for Rice to play significantly upon his return.
Analysis: Perhaps one reason why the Vikings were comfortable waiving Moss was because they knew Rice would be back soon. Though it's hard to expect Rice to play at the same level as last year since he's coming back from major hip surgery, he should see some relevant playing time and thus be worth considering in Fantasy. He's unowned in more than half of CBSSports.com's leagues; if you have the roster spot available, and if you think you'll need a boost at receiver for the Fantasy postseason, consider adding Rice off waivers.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) has been catching passes after practice, but he clarified Thursday that he was "jogging, not running routes." Rice, who has until Dec. 5 to come off the PUP list before he has to be placed on the IR, said there is no timetable for his return.
Analysis: Rice has until Week 10 to get back on the field, otherwise he can't return this season. Things aren't looking good, considering he hasn't even practiced yet and it's already coming up on Week 8. Continue to stash Rice away in deeper Fantasy leagues for the time being, and you should hope the Vikings start winning soon, otherwise the team isn't likely to risk him in 2010.
News: Vikings coach Brad Childress says WR Sidney Rice (hip) is nowhere near ready to rejoin the team. Childress says Rice is continuing with his treatment and once the team decides he is ready to practice, they have three weeks to decide if he can play this season. Rice was eligible to come off the PUP list on Wednesday.
Analysis: It's now a race against time for Rice to get back healthy by Week 10, as the team will have to make a decision at that point about whether to activate him or send him to IR. With the arrival of Randy Moss, Rice's role will certainly be different once he does get back on the field, although he will likely still start, with Percy Harvin occupying the slot. Continue to stash Rice away in deeper Fantasy formats for the time being.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip), who was eligible to come off the PUP list on Wednesday, isn't ready to practice yet according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.
Analysis: It's now a race against time for Rice to get back healthy by Week 10, as the team will have to make a decision at that point about whether to activate him or send him to IR. With the arrival of Randy Moss, Rice's role will certainly be different once he does get back on the field, although he will likely still start, with Percy Harvin occupying the slot. Continue to stash Rice away in deeper Fantasy formats for the time being.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice has ditched the crutches he had to use following hip surgery in August, but head coach Brad Childress still doesn't expect his tall receiver to run anytime soon. Childress said Friday that Rice isn't expected to run for a couple of weeks, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
Analysis: Rice is currently on the PUP list, and he can stay there until Week 10 before the team has to make a decision on him for the rest of the year. Our hunch is that if he's still not allowed to run, his chances of playing this season are slim. We recommend holding on to him only in deeper leagues so long as you can afford to spend the roster space.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe posted a picture on his Twitter page of WR Sidney Rice (hip) standing without crutches, saying he no longer needs them. Rice had surgery in August, and there is no timetable for when he will return.
Analysis: Rice remains on the PUP list, but could return in Week 7 at the Packers. We haven't heard much on his progress from the Vikings, and that, combined with the addition of Randy Moss, leads us to believe that Rice might not be ready to play for a while. Don't cut Rice just to cut him, but don't keep him expecting him to return to form -- especially if he has to share the field with Moss & Co. upon his arrival.
News: With the Vikings' acquisition of WR Randy Moss from the Patriots, speculation is that WR Sidney Rice's recovery from hip surgery isn't going as smoothly as the receiver had hoped and that the team is moving on from him at least for this season. Rice tried to play on an injured hip this summer but couldn't even stay on the practice fields for long. He had surgery before the regular season and is on the PUP list until at least Week 7. By adding Moss, the Vikings landed the big-play receiver they had last year with Rice. It's also worth noting that the Vikings were in the hunt for WR Vincent Jackson recently, adding more fuel to the fire that they're not planning on having Rice back for a while.
Analysis: If you've been holding on to Rice this season, you should consider the trade for Moss as a bad sign. If Minnesota truly felt that they'd be able to activate Rice by Week 7, they might not have given up a valuable third-round draft choice for Moss. Owned in 63 percent of CBSSports.com leagues, we recommend cutting bait on Rice so long as there's another player on waivers who can help your team win now. Don't cut Rice just to cut him, but don't keep him expecting him to return to form -- especially if he has to share the field with Moss & Co. upon his arrival.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice, who is recovering from preseason hip surgery, said Monday he walked in a pool for the first time and felt no pain. He has been on crutches since surgery in late August. There is still no timetable for him to get off the crutches, but Rice insists his goal is to be ready for deactivation from the PUP list by Week 7. "I feel like I can walk without them on the ground but it's doctor protocol," Rice said. "Its feeling great right now at this point and I am going to continue to do what they tell me."
Analysis: It sounds like Rice is making progress from the surgery, though seeing that he's still on crutches (which was to be expected) can't bring much optimism. Owners who have Rice should take a moment to survey waivers for a possible addition in place of Rice. Remember. he's a dead spot on a roster until at least Week 7, and judging by the severity of the surgery it could be beyond then. A receiver like Mark Clayton, Demaryius Thomas, Kevin Walter or Louis Murphy might be able to help your team now vs. Rice, who could take a while to get back on the field, if at all.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip) was at the practice facility on crutches to begin his rehab Sunday. No official timetable on his return has been announced, but coach Brad Childress said it will be "at least eight weeks."
Analysis: Since Rice is on the PUP list, he will miss at the least the first six weeks of the season. His coach says he will be rehabbing for at least eight weeks, but if all goes well, Rice could be ready to play as early as Week 7 against the Packers. Clearly, this is an unsettled situation that will be followed closely once Rice's minimum stay on the PUP list is up. Rice has been the 13th most drafted receiver in CBSSports.com leagues, but that takes into account the numbers before it was announced he needed surgery and would miss the first six weeks of the season. He has been falling in drafts ever since, but he is still worth a mid-round, injury-risk sleeper because his second-half numbers might be worth the wait in Fantasy.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice will be ineligible to play in the first six games of the regular season. Rice was placed on the reserve physically unable to perform list Tuesday, the NFL's deadline for reducing rosters to 75 players. Players on reserve don't count toward the active total. Rice had hip surgery last week and is expected to need at least two months of recovery, so the move was not a surprise. After Minnesota's sixth game, at Green Bay on Oct. 24, the team will have three more weeks to decide whether to activate Rice or end his season by putting him on injured reserve. After he had the procedure in Vail, Colo., the Vikings signed one WR in Javon Walker and traded for another in Greg Camarillo. But the extra depth at that position cost them at another, with cornerback Benny Sapp being sent to Miami in the deal. Rice said on his Twitter account Tuesday that he had a "great pool workout" with fellow hip-surgery patient Jonny Flynn, the point guard for the Timberwolves. Flynn had his procedure done six weeks ago and is expected to need another two or three months to recover.
Analysis: We hope that Rice continues to make strides in his comeback from hip surgery, and hopefully he will be ready for Week 7. We still consider Rice worth drafting in all Fantasy leagues because if he can get back to 100 percent health then he could be a steal with a late-round pick. The key with Rice on Draft Day is to take at least three or four quality Fantasy wide receivers and then add Rice with a late-round flier.
News: While doing rehab following hip surgery earlier this week, Vikings WR Sidney Rice blogged about his experience and claimed his injury could have been career-threatening. According to Rice on his official web site, he was told his hip would heal on its own after getting an MRI following an injury in the NFC title game. He then tweaked it again during minicamp, had another MRI and opted to let it heal on its own instead of having surgery. Then he complained of soreness last week, got another MRI and it showed "significant changes." Surgery followed. Rice wrote that he is taking rehab slow but is optimistic about returning before the end of the year, and he isn't concerned about his contract status. "As for when I’ll be back, I’m not really sure but I’m aiming for being back on the field before midseason," Rice wrote. "I want to do as much rehab as I can as fast as I can without jeopardizing the injury or making it worse. Whatever the doctor says, I’m shooting for two weeks before that."
Analysis: We should expect Rice to be placed on the PUP list to start the season, forcing him out for the first six weeks of the season (five games for the Vikings -- they have a Week 4 bye). Then a window opens for Rice to be activated from Week 7 to Week 10, and it is assumed that he'll be activated then if he's healthy. For now, Rice is a guy you should focus on stashing on your bench in hopes that he can come back strong in the second half of the season. That makes him a middle- to late-round pick, and he should be viewed the same way as Vincent Jackson since his holdout might keep him sidelined through six games (we'd rather have Jackson because he's healthier). If you already own Rice, make plans to acquire Bernard Berrian since he'll see work head his way with Rice out.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice underwent hip surgery on Monday and is likely to miss at least eight weeks of action. Rice has been dealing with his ailment since aggravating his hip in the playoffs last season but said before training camp that he'd be fine for Week 1. But last week he tested the hip and said it was sore, prompting the team to explore other options. Rice texted the Minneapolis Star Tribune saying the surgery "went well." It is estimated that Rice will remain on the PUP list through the first six weeks of the season and come off of it before the Week 10 deadline, although Brad Childress admitted Tuesday that Rice could end up on season-ending injured reserve. "I would think (it will take) probably at least eight weeks before we’re talking about doing anything," said Childress.
Analysis: Rice can no longer be counted on as a reliable Fantasy receiver worth drafting early on. Instead, he becomes a guy you might opt to stash on your bench in hopes that he can come back strong in the second half of the season. Rice immediately becomes a middle- to late-round pick, and he should be viewed the same way as Vincent Jackson since his holdout might keep him sidelined through six games (we'd rather have Jackson). If you already own Rice, make plans to acquire Bernard Berrian since he'll see work head his way with Rice out.
News:Sidney Rice visited with hip specialists at a Vail, Colo., clinic on Monday and appears to be headed for surgery soon, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Rice, who is currently on the physically unable to perform list, did not have surgery this offseasondespite urging from specialists for a troublesome hip injury that got aggravated during last year's playoff run. Rice has done some running with the Vikings this summer but said he felt pain while doing extensive work on the side last week. If he has surgery, it is believed that he would miss six weeks while staying on the PUP list along with a couple more weeks after that.
Analysis: If Rice is unable to play from the start of the season as we were expecting, then he cannot be counted on as a reliable Fantasy starter. The guy did have a breakout season in 2009 thanks in part to a versatile and strong offense and a career year by Brett Favre, but Rice has tried to play hurt before and struggled mightily (he hobbled through 2008 with a knee injury that kept him to 15 catches for 141 yards and four touchdowns). Once it's confirmed that he's having surgery, Rice's value will tank from a low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR to a reserve option you can hang on to and hope for big numbers from, kind of like Vincent Jackson. The difference is that Jackson is healthy and should be a decent receiving option upon his return while Rice could be a disappointment all season long. We wouldn't blame you if you passed on Rice entirely in drafts; if you already have him, make plans to acquire Bernard Berrian since he'll see work head his way with Rice out.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice attempted to work out Friday and said he felt some pain in his hip while running. Rice has been dealing with a sore hip that did not receive surgery. He reportedly played through it last season until he aggravated it in the postseason. Now his status is "up in the air" for Week 1 according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune via Twitter. Rice has been ruled out for the team's upcoming preseason game at San Francisco.
Analysis: Rice was a huge reason for the Vikings' success through the air last season, and if he's not healthy that could mean bad things for the offense. Obviously, if Rice isn't healthy it means bad things for your Fantasy team, too. Expect to start seeing him slip in drafts as people begin assuming that he'll be a question mark for Week 1 -- knowing the Vikings play before everyone else does sure won't help his timetable for recovery any. Furthermore, there are no promises that this hip injury won't limit him for most or all of the regular season. Rice broke out for 1,312 yards receiving and eight touchdowns in 2009, but at this point those stats seem lofty. Count him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR for now, and if you draft him (or did draft him), be sure to consider Bernard Berrian, the healthiest of the Vikings receivers, as a good insurance policy for him.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hip/PUP) continued his conditioning Monday on an adjacent field during practice. Rice did more quick starts, stops and cuts than he has in the first two weeks of camp, when he ran mostly straight-line sprints. "A few setbacks, but it's getting better," Rice said. He feels fine running straight sprints but isn't at full speed changing directions. Rice wouldn't offer a timetable for his return.
Analysis: We'll continue to monitor Rice's status, but he expects to be fine for the start of the regular season. Rice should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR when healthy, especially now that Brett Favre has agreed to return. We'd like to see him on the field and playing this preseason before we feel completely comfortable with Rice.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice continues to deal with a lingering hip injury and doesn't appear to be returning to practice anytime soon. Head coach Brad Childress said Tuesday that Rice is "a ways off" from being back. He is currently on the physically unable to perform list. Rice has said recently that he expects to be ready for the start of the season.
Analysis: We'll give Rice credit for knowing the offense and being a great player when healthy, but there's something to be said about being in shape to play football week in and week out. He's not there right now if he's on the PUP list. He might disappoint to start the season because he's not in perfect shape, and that's something to keep in mind as you get closer to drafting. Furthermore, if his quarterback ends up being someone other than Brett Favre, you have to figure his stats will take a hit. We've downgraded Rice a bit and believe him to be a low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR worth a pick between late Round 2 and late Round 3. The longer he sits out, though, the more he could slip.
News: The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports Wednesday that Vikings coach Brad Childress said WR Sidney Rice (hip) is "a ways away" from coming off the physically unable to perform list. Rice said Monday his timetable to return to action is day to day and that he was "getting better."
Analysis: We'll continue to monitor Rice's status, but he expects to be fine for the start of the regular season. Rice should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR when healthy, but we're also in limbo with the Vikings' passing game based on the status of QB Brett Favre. If Favre returns as expected then Rice would be considered a Top 10 Fantasy WR worth a pick toward the end of Round 2 or beginning of Round 3. But if Favre retires and Tarvaris Jackson takes over as the starter then Rice's value would be lowered, and he would be more of a high-end No. 2 Fantasy option. As you can see, based on the injury and QB status, Rice's Fantasy value is slightly undefined. Continue to see what develops with Rice and the Vikings as training camp goes on.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice (hip), who is starting training camp on the physically unable to perform list, said his timetable to return to action is day to day. "Getting better," Rice said of his hip. "Doing a lot of ground work, running around. The training staff and weight coaches are doing a great job getting me back right."
Analysis: Rice has a lingering hip injury that first surfaced during the Vikings' run to the NFC title game in January. He participated in some offseason practices, and has said he plans on being ready for the start of the season. Rice broke out for 1,312 yards receiving and eight touchdowns in 2009 and we expect more of the same from him this year. Continue to monitor this hip injury during training camp. Keep him on the radar on Draft Day towards the end of Round 2 or beginning of Round 3 in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice is starting training camp on the physically unable to perform list. Rice has a lingering hip injury that first surfaced during the Vikings' run to the NFC title game in January. He participated in some offseason practices, but coach Brad Childress says the injury continues to bother him, so he will be out until it starts to feel better. Rice had a breakout season last year, leading the Vikings in receiving and earning his first trip to the Pro Bowl.
Analysis: Rice said in an interview with CBSSports.com that his hip feels fine, and he plans to be ready for the start of the season. Rice will likely go slow in training camp to make sure he doesn't suffer any setback, but he should be ready for Week 1, which is what matters most. We value Rice as a No. 1 Fantasy WR, and he's worth drafting toward the end of Round 2 or beginning of Round 3 in all leagues. Continue to monitor his hip injury, but we expect him to be 100 percent healthy.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that the Vikings will wait to see how WR Sidney Rice (hip) feels when he arrives at training camp before making any determination about whether to go slow with him or put him on the PUP list. Rice was injured in the playoffs and has seen specialists, who did not believe the injury required surgery. Rice said in an interview with CBSSports.com that his hip feels fine, and he plans to be ready for the start of the season.
Analysis: Rice will likely go slow in training camp to make sure he doesn't suffer any setback, but he should be ready for Week 1, which is what matters most. We value Rice as a No. 1 Fantasy WR, and he's worth drafting toward the end of Round 2 or beginning of Round 3 in all leagues. Continue to monitor his hip injury, but we expect him to be 100 percent healthy.
News:Sidney Rice said "everything is alright" when explaining what's wrong with his hip to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Rice said he'll be ready for training camp after his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, posted an ominous statement on Twitter about Rice's health saying he had a "lingering hip injury" suffered in the playoffs, not a groin injury. Rice said doctors have told him to keep it rested so he can be as healthy as possible for camp. "We had it looked at [by doctors] and no surgery," Rice said. "It's not bad. Just being cautious with it. I can run. I'm jogging and sprinting. I'm just not doing a lot of cutting and different things like that. The doctors feel this is the best thing."
Analysis: Rice was ripped by ex-Vikings receiver Cris Carter for not participating in a workout regimen with fellow NFL receiver Larry Fitzgerald earlier this week, but it appears his hip is the reason for his absence. Rice has played hurt before and not done well -- he had a knee injury that lingered in 2008 -- so we're a bit nervous about what this hip problem might do to him over the course of a season. So long as he doesn't miss much time in camp this summer, he remains a No. 1 Fantasy receiver worth a pick between Rounds 3 and 4.
News: Agent Drew Rosenhaus posted on Twitter that his client WR Sidney Rice has been dealing with "a lingering hip injury that he suffered in the playoffs." Rosenhaus also posted that Rice "does not have a groin injury and has not had surgery" but did add that Rice "does not anticipate that this injury will require surgery and he's hopeful that he will be fully healthy for the start of the season." Earlier Thursday, ex-Vikings WR Cris Carter told the Minneapolis Star-Tribune that he was disappointed that Rice didn't work out with him and other NFL players in Minneapolis, questioning his workout habits. Rice worked out with Carter and Fitzgerald last offseason before going on to post career-best totals. "I don't know what it's like to have one good year and then disappear. I don't know what it's like. That's on him. I really don't know," Carter said. "If I had that kind of impact on him he should have been here."
Analysis: Sounds like Rice couldn't make it because he was hurt, and now we don't know the extent of the injury disclosed by Rosenhaus. For now let's give Rice the benefit of the doubt and figure him to participate in training camp with his teammates. But any sort of time missed because of the injury will make us nervous -- his 2008 campaign was destroyed because of a knee sprain that hobbled him for the year, so any hip problems that aren't taken care of before August could be an issue. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy receiver worth a pick between Rounds 3 and 4 -- for now. When we know more, you'll know more.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice hauled four catches for 43 yards and a touchdown as Minnesota fell 31-28 to New Orleans on Sunday. Rice caught a five yard touchdown from Favre in the first quarter of the game. Rice finished out the season with seven touchdowns in his final four games.
Analysis: During the regular season, Rice posted 83 catches for 1,312 yards and eight scores in a breakout year for the third-year wideout and has emerged as a viable No. 1 WR in all formats going forward. His value would remain at its highest if Brett Favre returns next fall, but he's going to be a high pick in Fantasy leagues regardless following this Pro Bowl campaign.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice set a new Vikings playoff record as he sailed passed names like Randy Moss and Cris Carter with three touchdowns receptions on Sunday in the NFC Divisional Playoff win against the Cowboys. Rice hooked up with future Hall of Fame QB Brett Favre for touchdown receptions of 47, 16 and 45 yards. The first and the final touchdowns were down field balls that Rice ran under and fought off defenders for while the middle score was on a broken play in which Rice began as a blocker and eventually found himself open down field as Favre found him for the score. Rice finished the game with six catches for 141 yards and the three scores.
Analysis: Rice caught six passes for 112 yards and two touchdowns in the regular-season finale against the Giants and now has six touchdowns in his last three games. Rice has the ability to be the clear-cut No. 1 option in Minnesota and he's definitely shown big-play ability all season with games of 176, 136, 201, 112 and now 141 yards receiving. Rice should be a top Fantasy option for Fantasy Playoff Challenge leagues in next weekend's NFC Championship game against the Saints. Rice made the Pro Bowl this season and should be a high draft pick for next season as one of the top receivers in the NFL.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice caught two touchdown passes in the regular season finale against the Giants in Week 17. He caught six passes for 112 yards, being targeted six times in the game.
Analysis: Rice, like most of the Vikings' regulars, exited the game in the third quarter of a blowout. He posted 83 catches for 1,312 yards and eight scores in a breakout year for the third-year wideout and has emerged as a viable No. 1 WR in all formats going forward. His value would remain at its highest if Brett Favre returns next fall, but he's going to be a high pick in Fantasy leagues regardless following this Pro Bowl campaign.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice had a solid game on Monday night in the Week 16 overtime loss to the Bears. Rice hauled in a 6-yard TD pass from Brett Favre with 16 second remaining in regulation to force the overtime period. Rice finished with a team-high six catches for 56 yards and the touchdown.
Analysis: Rice hasn’t topped 89 receiving yards since that 201-yard game against Detroit back in Week 10. Still, he does have at least 69 yards four times in the six games since that performance and has four touchdown catches since that game as well. Rice has emerged as perhaps Brett Favre’s favorite weapon, though he has a lot of them, and can be used as a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 17 against the Giants.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice, who was dealing with an illness heading into Week 15 at Carolina, was able to play and finished with four catches for 69 yards and a lost fumble.
Analysis: This wasn't the kind of game Rice was hoping for, but at least he was able to play through his ailment. We like Rice as a No. 1 Fantasy WR in Week 16 at Chicago. Rice had six catches for 89 yards against the Bears in Week 12.
News: The Vikings will have receivers Sidney Rice and Percy Harvin active for Sunday night's game at Carolina. Rice was dealing with an illness and Harvin has been dealing with migraines. Harvin was out for Week 14 against Cincinnati.
Analysis: Keep Rice and Harvin active in all leagues. Both are considered solid starting options against the Panthers.
News: The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports that Vikings WR Sidney Rice is "ready to go" for Week 15 at Carolina. Rice missed practice Thursday and Friday with an illness but said he felt better on Friday. Rice has added motivation this week: He'll be playing near his home (South Carolina) and has a lot of friends and family coming to see him play and potentially clinch the NFC North. "It's a huge game for me," said Rice. "Probably one of the most exciting games I've ever played in. I will try to make it as much fun as possible and hope my people get to enjoy it."
Analysis: Pencil in Rice to start for your Fantasy team, and it helps that he's got family there to watch him play. We expect him to produce like a low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR. We'll have the official word on his status right here in this space around 7 p.m. ET on Sunday night.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice missed practice for a second straight day Friday as he continued to deal with an illness. Minnesota plays at Carolina in Week 15.
Analysis: It doesn't appear as though an illness is a big obstacle for Rice, but it is a situation we will continue to monitor through the weekend. Still prepare to keep Rice active as a No. 1 Fantasy WR. Rice has finally reached his full potential in 2009 playing with veteran QB Brett Favre and has become a go-to-receiver for the Vikings and Fantasy owners. Just be sure to make sure he's active.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice was home sick all day on Thursday according to coach Brad Childress and that is why he was not on the practice field. The Vikings are preparing to play Carolina in Week 15.
Analysis: It doesn't appear as though an illness is a big obstacle for Rice, but it is a situation we will continue to monitor through the weekend. Still prepare to keep Rice active as a No. 1 Fantasy WR. Rice has finally reached his full potential in 2009 playing with veteran QB Brett Favre and has become a go-to-receiver for the Vikings and Fantasy owners.
News: In the Vikings' Week 14 win vs. the Bengals, WR Sidney Rice hauled in a touchdown on one of his four catches. He finished with 39 yards. Rice had another score called back in the first half because of a Vikings penalty.
Analysis: Rice typically catches more passes for more yards than this, but he had a tough matchup. Look for him to rebound at the Panthers in Week 15.
News: ESPN reports that Vikings WR Percy Harvin (illness) has been declared inactive for Week 14 vs. Cincinnati.
Analysis: Harvin has been on fire of late, so this issue comes at a bad time for his Fantasy owners. Expect Sidney Rice and Bernard Berrian to shoulder more of the load with Harvin out. Rice remains a No. 1 option, while Berrian is more of a flex/No. 3 option.
News: In the Vikings' Week 13 loss at the Cardinals, WR Sidney Rice had 72 yards on seven catches. For some receivers, those are great totals, but with Rice considered a No. 1 Fantasy option, those totals are underwhelming. Rice hasn't had a 100-yard outing in his last three weeks and hasn't scored in all but one of his last eight games.
Analysis: Is Rice slipping out of the picture as a No. 1 Fantasy WR? His Week 14 matchup against the Bengals at home suggests some problems as their secondary is strong. But alas, he's still catching plenty of passes, and they keeps his stock in demand. Consider Rice at worst a top-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for the matchup against the Bengals.
News: For the second straight game, Vikings WR Sidney Rice had six catches for 89 yards against the Bears in Week 12. He couldn't repeat the two touchdowns, though, going without one for the sixth time in seven games.
Analysis: Rice hasn't been able to get in the end zone with much consistency, but you can't complain with all the yardage he's giving you. He's averaging 121.8 receiving yards over his last six games. Keep him active as a No. 1 Fantasy WR at Arizona in Week 13.
News:Sidney Rice's first half was a nightmare for Fantasy owners: One catch for 24 yards while three teammates caught touchdowns. That changed in the second half when he grabbed two touchdowns and finished with 89 yards on six catches. Rice has 50 catches for 875 yards and four touchdowns on the season
Analysis: Rice's five-game streak without a touchdown ends in a big way, and he should have a shot at cracking 1,000 yards receiving in Week 12 against the Bears. Obviously, Rice has earned his spot as a No. 1 Fantasy WR worth a start each week.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice had seven catches for 201 yards Sunday against the Lions. Rice has now gone five games without scoring a touchdown, but he has three of his past four games with at least 135 receiving yards.
Analysis: If Rice was finding the end zone he'd be considered the No. 1 Fantasy WR in all leagues. As it is, he's having a breakout season in his third year. Rice continues to be Brett Favre's favorite target, and look for Rice to remain hot in Week 11 against Seattle. Keep him active in all leagues.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice managed just four catches for 40 yards in Week 8 before the Vikings had a bye. Rice returns to face the Lions in Week 10. Detroit is among the worst pass defenses in the NFL. Rice caught three passes for 29 yards the last time Minnesota played the Lions in Detroit earlier this year.
Analysis: Rice caught 16 passes for 312 yards during Week 6 and 7 and emerged as Brett Favre's No. 1 target. Percy Harvin stole some of that thunder in Week 8 before the bye but Rice should still be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 10 against a terrible pass defense.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice caught four passes for 40 yards in a Week 8 win over the Packers.
Analysis: Rice was held in check by Green Bay on Sunday as Brett Favre spread the love around as usual. The Vikings are off in Week 9, so just stash Rice in all formats. When Minnesota returns to action, Rice will be worth considering as a starting Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Fox Sports is reporting that Vikings WR Bernard Berrian (hamstring) won't play in Week 8 at Green Bay.
Analysis: Berrian was limited in practice Friday and apparently his hammy just isn't healed enough for him to take part at Lambeau. Bench him in all formats. Percy Harvin and Sidney Rice will start and see extra reps with Berrian out. Consider Rice a low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR, while Harvin is more of a No. 3/flex option.
News: A day after losing to the Steelers, Brett Favre lost a pass completion, too. An official scoring change made Monday took away one of Favre's completions during Minnesota's 27-17 loss to the Steelers on Sunday. Favre officially completed 33 of 50 passes, not 34 of 51. Favre was errantly given a completion for no yards to Sidney Rice with 8:16 remaining on an apparent 10-yard touchdown pass play that was nullified by a 10-yard tripping penalty on tight end Jeff Dugan. Rice ended with 10 catches for 136 yards, not 11 catches.
Analysis: The scoring change only affects Rice owners in Fantasy points per reception leagues. Rice has done well in big games and blowouts, against stud secondaries and weak secondaries. He's big-time now and should start in all leagues as at worst a No. 2 Fantasy WR. Look for him to come up big in Week 8 at Green Bay to help Favre beat his former team in his former stadium; Rice had five catches for 70 yards and a touchdown in Week 4 against the Packers.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice has clearly established himself as Brett Favre's go-to receiver after another 100-yard outing, catching 11 passes for 136 yards at Pittsburgh in Week 7. He actually should have had better stats than that as a touchdown and several other catches were wiped out by penalties. In total he was targeted 15 times.
Analysis: Rice has done well in big games and blowouts, against stud secondaries and weak secondaries. He's big-time now and should start in all leagues as at worst a No. 2 Fantasy WR. Look for him to come up big in Week 8 at Green Bay to help Favre beat his former team in his former stadium; Rice had five catches for 70 yards and a touchdown in Week 4 against the Packers.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice had six catches for a career-high 176 yards Sunday against Baltimore. His previous career high in a game was 82.
Analysis: Rice continues to impress this season as a third-year breakout WR. He has a tough matchup in Week 7 at Pittsburgh, but Rice has played well enough this year to be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR. In games where the Vikings are forced to throw, and the Steelers game qualifies as such, Rice's value increases. He could have another good game against the Steelers.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice could see plenty of targets in Week 6 as Baltimore visits the run-stuffing Vikings. Minnesota is also pretty respectable against the pass though, ranking 18th through five games.
Analysis: Rice is basically the sort of No. 1 1/2 wide receiver in Minnesota, as his stats are almost exactly the same as Percy Harvin's. Start him as a solid No. 3 Fantasy WR in Week 6.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice caught three passes for 61 yards in a Week 5 rout of the Rams.
Analysis: Rice couldn't extend his touchdown streak to three games on Sunday, but he still managed a decent amount of yards in a blowout. In Week 6, the Vikings host the Ravens, which is a matchup that should favor the passing game. Start Rice as a No. 3 Fantasy WR or as a solid bye-week replacement option.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice hooked up with Brett Favre for a 14-yard TD reception in the 2nd quarter of Monday night's win over the Packers in Week 4. Rice had an excellent game as he hauled in five catches for 70 yards and the touchdown. He also threw an incomplete pass and came up huge on onside kicks as he recovered two late as the Packers attempted to come back.
Analysis: Rice now has 14 receptions on the season in four games for 172 yards and two touchdowns. The touchdowns have no come in consecutive weeks and they've been his best two weeks thus far. He's definitely getting more and more comfortable with Favre throwing passes and who wouldn't? Rice is quickly becoming one of Favre's favorite targets and that should increase his Fantasy value heading into Week 5 at St. Louis. The Rams stink and Rice should be a solid No. 3 Fantasy WR play for the game.
News: In his team's Week 3 win over the 49ers, Vikings WR Sidney Rice caught four passes for 56 yards with a nifty 30-yard touchdown catch from Brett Favre in the first half.
Analysis: Rice is expected to have games like this from time to time. But before this game, Rice had five catches for 46 yards in two total games. He's inconsistent to say the least, which is why he's no better than a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR at best in the deepest of leagues on a week to week basis. The Vikings host the Packers in Week 4.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice almost had a touchdown in Week 2 against the Lions, but was stopped on the 2-yard line in the second quarter after a 13-yard reception. Rice, who was targeted five times in the game, finished with three catches for 29 yards. He has five catches for 46 yards in his first two games.
Analysis: Rice, who has four touchdowns in each of his first two seasons, has really been a first-round disappointment since being drafted in 2007. Even with Brett Favre under center, Rice has yet to have a breakout performance. Until Rice hits his stride, he has minimal Fantasy appeal. The Vikings play the 49ers in Week 3.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice caught two passes for 17 yards in Week 1 at Cleveland. No Vikings receiver had even 40 yards against the Browns.
Analysis: The Vikings managed just 110 yards through the air in Week 1 as Brett Favre made his official debut with Minnesota. As the season goes on, we expect the Vikings to get more aggressive in the passing game and that could begin to happen in Week 2 when the Vikings travel to Detroit to take on a Lions defense that allowed six touchdown passes in Week 1. Rice will have some sleeper value in deeper leagues for that matchup.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice caught two passes for 18 yards in Monday's preseason win over the Texans.
Analysis: Rice will give Favre a tall, lanky target to focus on in the red zone. He's got a shot to post nominal totals, but he's nothing more than a low-end reserve in deeper Fantasy leagues.
News: The Vikings signed Brett Favre to be their starting quarterback on Tuesday, opening the door for their passing game to be much improved. That impacts WR Sidney Rice, who is coming off of a nightmare 2008 season and will be playing in his third NFL season. Rice is battling for a starting job this preseason.
Analysis: Rice will give Favre a tall, lanky target to focus on in the red zone. He's got a shot to post nominal totals, but he's nothing more than a low-end reserve in deeper Fantasy leagues.
News: The St. Paul Pioneer-Press reports Vikings WR Sidney Rice got some encouraging news this week while training with former Minnesota great Cris Carter and current Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald. Rice ran routes without a knee brace for the first time in 10 months. "I didn't think about my knee at all," said Rice, who estimated he is about 90 percent healthy. Rice also got some positive comments from Fitzgerald and Carter. "He's a phenomenal athlete, with that size, and his ability to run," Carter said of Rice. Fitzgerald also had high praise for Rice after spending a few days training with him. "I think he has all the ability in the world. There's no reason Sidney shouldn't be a big-time starter or a No. 1 in the NFL," Fitzgerald said. In fact, Fitzgerald said Rice, who, at 6-foot-4, is also a tall receiver, is a better overall athlete. "This dude is so much more athletic than me," Fitzgerald said, noting that they had played basketball together. "He jumps out of the gym. (He can) shoot. He can do everything, athletically. It's just the technical things he needs to work on."
Analysis: It sounds like Rice, who is entering his third year, is in line for a breakout season if he can stay healthy. He also needs to know who is going to be throwing him the ball, whether it's Sage Rosenfels, Tarvaris Jackson or Brett Favre. We consider Rice a sleeper this year, and he's worth drafting with a late-round pick in all leagues.
News: The Star Tribune reports Vikings WR Sidney Rice looked good in the recent minicamp and reported no signs of trouble with his right knee over the weekend. "It's not really an issue," he said. The third-year wide receiver said several weeks ago that his knee still was not 100 percent after suffering a sprained posterior cruciate ligament in Week 2 last season. But Rice took part in every drill and did not seem restricted in any way. He made a handful of plays and said afterward that his knee felt good. "It really didn't bother me none this weekend," he said. "No pulls, nothing like that." Rice said he will take part in OTAs this week and then will spend six weeks building up strength in his leg.
Analysis: All signs point toward Rice making a return at full strength this season, which is a positive sign. He should be considered a solid late-round flier in all formats, especially touchdown-only leagues. We like Rice since he's a third-year breakout candidate, and he could approach double digits in touchdowns this season.
News: On his blog, Vikings WR Sidney Rice said he and rookie WR Percy Harvin are competing for the starting spot. "Lots of questions about Percy Harvin our new receiver," Rice wrote. "Yes, we're competing for the same position, but we're teammates so I want to help him along so he can do his best and help us win games. Anything he needs, I'm going to be there for him. Having someone look out for you when you come into the league is a big help. I had Troy Williamson, Robert Ferguson, Bobby Wade." Rice also said last year's knee injury is in the past. "I'm pretty much over my injury, I'm running routes at full speed, I just need to get my strength back to 100 percent," he wrote. "I'll be working with the trainers on that starting today, and I'll be there long after practice for extra work just to get up to speed."
Analysis: We think Rice and Harvin will be on the field together a lot along with Bernard Berrian, and Rice has the chance to make plays this year in his third season in the NFL. See what happens with Rice and Harvin, but Rice is worth a late-round pick in all leagues. Rice should be a good red-zone threat since he has eight touchdowns in limited action the past two years.
News: The Star-Tribune reports Vikings WR Sidney Rice is still not 100 percent recovered from the knee injury he suffered last season. Rice is currently working out in Miami while trying to prepare for the season. "It's getting better," Rice said of his knee. "I can really tell that it's getting better. I'm not 100 percent yet. But I'm running routes full speed and feeling pretty good. The coaches were watching me run the other day and they can tell I'm making progress with it. I'm not too far off from it. But I should be ready coming into training camp. ... I still feel a little pain when I do get up to full speed or when I'm getting close to it. My main thing is strengthening my quad and my hamstring. I've been doing a pretty good job. When we start these OTAs I'm going to be spending extra time in the training room running in the pool on the treadmill and doing little exercises. Those exercises help me out a lot."
Analysis: Rice is entering his third year in the NFL, which is typically the year when wide receivers have a breakout season. We like Rice as a late-round sleeper because of his ability to score touchdowns since eight of his 46 receptions have gone for scores. Consider Rice a low-end No. 4 Fantasy option coming into the year.
News: With the drafting of first-round pick Percy Harvin, Vikings WRs Sidney Rice and Bobby Wade could lose significant touches. Harvin is a unique receiver in that he can run with the ball and also work in nearly every situation on the field, so his skill-set is quite varied. But he'll be used a lot, and that means fewer passes for Rice and Wade.
Analysis: We think Rice will be OK, but in a limited role, while Wade could lose significant playing time since Harvin can excel in the slot. Rice is no better than a late-round pick as a potential sleeper thanks to his size, and Wade shouldn't be relied upon for much help since his time in Minnesota could be running out.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice went without a reception Week 16 against the Falcons. He has only 14 receptions all season.
Analysis: Clearly, Rice is a non-factor on the Vikings offense. Don't bother with him in Fantasy for Week 17 against the Giants.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice caught just one pass in Week 15 at Arizona. He was thrown to just one time in the game.
Analysis: The Vikings threw the ball just 17 times in a game they led 21-0 after one quarter. Rice has had no more than two catches in seven of his last eight games and is not a reliable Fantasy option for such a critical point in the Fantasy season. Despite the touchdown, leave him reserved in all leagues for Week 16 against Atlanta.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice caught two passes for 21 yards in Week 14's win over the Lions.
Analysis: Rice has very limited production over the last four weeks for the Vikings. He's only a low-end Fantasy WR and should not be used in Week 15 at Arizona.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice had one catch for 8 yards Sunday against Chicago.
Analysis: Rice is a low-end Fantasy WR and should not be used in Week 14 at Detroit.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice caught three passes for 27 yards in a Week 12 win at Jacksonville.
Analysis: Rice has yet to establish himself as a viable Fantasy WR, so continue to ignore him in all formats heading into Week 13 vs. Chicago.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice caught two passes for 22 yards in a Week 11 loss to the Buccaneers. He also attempted a pass.
Analysis: Rice has yet to establish himself as a viable Fantasy WR, so continue to ignore him in all formats heading into Week 12 at Jacksonville.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice had one catch for 3 yards and a touchdown Sunday against Green Bay.
Analysis: Rice is a low-end Fantasy WR but it's good to see him score. Still, he's not worth using in Week 11 at Tampa Bay.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (knee) was activated for Week 9 against Houston. He had been listed as probable on the injury report. He caught just one pass in the game, but it went for an 8-yard touchdown.
Analysis: Rice has been battling the knee injury for quite some time and has just two catches in his last seven games. Rice has been a first-round bust thus far, and until he finds his groove in the NFL, he has little to no Fantasy value. It will take more than the touchdown.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (knee) was activated for Week 9 against Houston. He had been listed as probable on the injury report.
Analysis: Rice could very well be on the injury report the remainder of the season. He has been battling the knee injury for quite some time and has just one catch in his last six games. Although, he has been active for just two of those contests. Rice has been a first-round bust thus far, and until he finds his groove in the NFL, he has little to no Fantasy value.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice (knee) is listed as probable for Week 9 vs. Houston. Rice returned to a full practice Friday after limited reps earlier in the week. Rice returned to action Week 7 against the Bears, but did not stat. The Vikings were on a bye Week 8.
Analysis: Rice could very well be on the injury report the remainder of the season. Rice has been battling the knee injury for quite some time and has just one catch in his last six games. Although, he has been active for just two of those contests. Rice has been a first-round bust thus far, and until he finds his groove in the NFL, he has little to no Fantasy value.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice (knee) was limited in practice once again on Thursday as the Vikings prepare for their Week 9 battle against the Texans. Rice returned to action Week 7 against the Bears, but did not stat. The Vikings were on a bye Week 8.
Analysis: Rice has been battling the knee injury for quite some time and has just one catch in his last six games. Although, he has been active for just two of those contests. Rice has been a first-round bust thus far, and until he finds his groove in the NFL, he has little to no Fantasy value.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (knee) went through limited practice reps Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 9 vs. Houston. Rice returned to action Week 7 against the Bears, but did not stat. The Vikings were on a bye Week 8.
Analysis: Rice has been battling the knee injury for quite some time and has just one catch in his last six games. Although, he has been active for just two of those contests. Rice has been a first-round bust thus far, and until he finds his groove in the NFL, he has little to no Fantasy value.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice played in Week 7 against the Bears but did not record any stats. Running back Maurice Hicks also played in the game and had no stats.
Analysis: Rice, who has battled an stomach virus and knee injury this season, has only three catches for 37 yards and one touchdown. He has a lot of talent, but is not adjusting well to the NFL game. Rice remains just a Fantasy reserve until he becomes a big-time factor. Hicks is not a Fantasy option. The Vikings have a bye in Week 8.
News: Both starting wide receivers for the Vikings, Bernard Berrian and Sidney Rice, will start in Week 7 against the Bears.
Analysis: Rice, who has battled an stomach virus and knee injury this season, has only three catches for 37 yards and one touchdown. He has a lot of talent, but is not adjusting well to the NFL game. Rice remains just a Fantasy reserve until he becomes a big-time factor.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (knee) is listed as questionable for Week 7 at Chicago. Rice took limited practice reps all week and has missed three of the last four games with a sprained PCL. However, the Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports Rice expects to play Sunday. "I was close (the last few weeks" but it was coach's decision, him deciding on what he really needed out there," Rice said. "He needed a couple extra special-teams players. That was fine with me. I know I wasn't 100 percent. Anything to help the team. I wasn't upset or anything."
Analysis: Rice, who has battled an stomach virus and knee injury this season, has only three catches for 37 yards and one touchdown. He has a lot of talent, but is not adjusting well to the NFL game. Rice remains just a Fantasy reserve until he becomes a big-time factor.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice was limited in practice on Thursday for the second straight day with his knee problem. The injury has kept him out of four of the last five games for the Vikings. He is questionable for Week 7 at Chicago.
Analysis: This knee injury has really hampered Rice in 2008 and has hurt his development. He has a lot of talent, but is not adjusting well to the NFL game. Rice remains just a Fantasy reserve until he becomes a big-time factor. He's not considered a viable Fantasy option in Week 7 even if healthy.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice is still being limited in practice Wednesday with a knee injury that has kept him out of four of the last five games for the Vikings. He is questionable for Week 7 at Chicago.
Analysis: This knee injury has really hampered Rice in 2008 and has hurt his development. He has a lot of talent, but is not adjusting well to the NFL game. Rice remains just a Fantasy reserve until he becomes a big-time factor. He's not considered a viable Fantasy option in Week 7 even if healthy.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (knee) was inactivated for Week 6 vs. Detroit. Bobby Wade moved up on the depth chart to replace him.
Analysis: This knee injury has really hampered Rice in 2008 and has hurt his development. He has a lot of talent, but is not adjusting well to the NFL game. Rice remains just a Fantasy reserve until he becomes a big-time factor. Wade is still not a recommended option.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice was limited in practice on Friday and is questionable for Week 6 vs. Detroit with a knee injury.
Analysis: This knee injury has really hampered Rice in 2008 and has hurt his development. He has a lot of talent, but is not adjusting well to the NFL game. Rice remains just a Fantasy reserve until he becomes a big-time factor.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (knee) went through limited practice reps Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 6 vs. Detroit. Rice practiced leading up to Week 5 against the Saints, but was ruled inactive before kickoff.
Analysis: This knee injury has really hampered Rice in 2008 and has hurt his development. He has a lot of talent, but is not adjusting well to the NFL game. Rice remains just a Fantasy reserve until he becomes a big-time factor.
News: Vikings QB John David Booty, WR Sidney Rice, DB Madieu Williams, DB Benny Sapp, RB Thomas Tapeh and DL Letroy Guion have all been ruled inactive for Week 5 at New Orleans.
Analysis: Williams is a key defensive player for the Vikings and a viable Fantasy DB when active. Rice is also a key receiver for the Vikings, but is more of a low-end Fantasy option. Most of the other players are reserves and play a marginial role. They have little to no Fantasy value and should be kept reserved Week 5.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (knee) is listed as questionable for Week 5 at New Orleans. He went through limited practice reps all week. Rice returned to action Week 4 after sitting out Week 3. He had just one catch against the Titans.
Analysis: Rice has fallen behind Bobby Wade on the depth chart but we still expect him to play and to get better as he comes back full force from the injury. Rice and Wade will be similar options on the road against the Saints for Fantasy, with Rice being the slightly better choice. Still consider both low-end No. 4 receiving options in Week 5. Start them only as bye-week replacements.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (knee) went through limited practice reps Thursday as the team prepares for Week 5 at New Orleans. Rice returned to action Week 4 after sitting out Week 3. He had just one catch against the Titans.
Analysis: Rice has fallen behind Bobby Wade on the depth chart but we still expect him to play and to get better as he comes back full force from the injury. Rice and Wade will be similar options on the road against the Saints for Fantasy, with Rice being the slightly better choice. Still consider both low-end No. 4 receiving options in Week 5. Start them only as bye-week replacements.
News: Minnesota WR Sidney Rice caught just one pass last week for six yards after missing Weeks 2 and 3 with injury. He caught two passes for 31 yards and a score in Week 1 against the Packers. The Vikings head to New Orleans, the league's worst pass defense, in Week 5 on Monday night.
Analysis: Rice has fallen behind Bobby Wade on the depth chart but we still expect him to play and to get better as he comes back full force from the injury. Rice and Wade will be similar options on the road against the Saints for Fantasy, with Rice being the slightly better choice. Still consider both low-end No. 4 receiving options in Week 5. Start them only as bye-week replacements.
News: The Vikings are listing Bobby Wade as a starting receiver in Week 4 at Tennessee over Sidney Rice. Rice had been listed as questionable with a knee injury, but will play.
Analysis: Wade started last Sunday against Carolina with Sidney Rice (knee) out. Wade had three catches for 35 yards. Expect similar production from him in Week 4. Give Rice at least another week to see if he can prove both healthy and productive before activating him.
News: Notable receiving stats for Vikings players in their Week 4 loss at Tennessee include TE Visanthe Shiancoe (47 yards on four catches), WR Aundrae Allison (23 yards on two catches), TE Jim Kleinsasser (15-yard catch), FB Naufahu Tahi (9 yards on two catches) and WR Sidney Rice (6-yard catch).
Analysis: Of these players, only Rice warrants Fantasy consideration, and he was the worst of the bunch. He's a decent reserve Fantasy receiver, but the reality is that the Vikings' pass game as a whole is a disappointment, and they could be going with Tarvaris Jackson under center next week after starter Gus Frerotte left with an injury at the Titans. The Vikings play at the Saints in Week 5.
News: The Star Tribune reports Vikings WR Sidney Rice, who missed last Sunday's game because of a sprained PCL in his right knee, said he is ready to go for Sunday's game at the Titans. Rice was able to get on the practice field for some work each day this week and is listed as questionable for the game, meaning officially there is a 50 percent chance he will play.
Analysis: It appears Rice will play against the Titans, but don't plan on using him this week. Consider him a low-end No. 4 Fantasy option this week.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (knee) went through limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 4 at Tennessee. Rice practiced very little leading up to being inactive Week 3 against the Panthers. However, he told the Minneapolis Star-Tribune he was upbeat after Wednesday's practice and said he will be able to play Sunday.
Analysis: Rive has just two catches for 31 yards and one touchdown in two games this season. However, he has yet to play with QB Gus Frerotte, who took over for the ineffective Tarvaris Jackson Week 3. Consider Rice nothing more than a low-end Fantasy WR Week 4.
News: The Vikings have confirmed that WR Sidney Rice (knee) is inactive and will not play vs. Carolina in Week 3.
Analysis: Possible waiver-wire pickups that could have a decent Week 3 include Bryant Johnson, David Patten, Justin McCareins, Antonio Bryant and Kevin Walter. Rice should remain benched in all leagues.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice was limited in Friday's practice and is questionable for Sunday against Carolina. He sprained his right knee last week.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Rice's status and see if he can go against the Panthers. If healthy, Rice is a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR against the Panthers. If he doesn't play, keep him reserved.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (knee) did not practice Wednesday or Thursday as the team prepares for Week 3 vs. Carolina. Rice suffered a strained PCL during a Week 2 loss to the Colts. He is hoping to play Sunday.
Analysis: The Vikings just switched QBs from Tarvaris Jackson to Gus Frerotte. Rice needs to get back on the practice field so he can develop some cohesion with his new quarterback. Keep an eye on Rice's status throughout the week, as he's a low-end No. 3 WR or 'flex' Fantasy option when healthy.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that an MRI on Vikings WR Sidney Rice's injured knee revealed a strained PCL. "It could have been much worse," said Rice, who hopes to play Sunday vs. Carolina. "I’m glad it’s only a sprain."
Analysis: Rice played through his injury on Sunday, so there's definitely a chance he could play against the Panthers, although he said his knee "kind of hurts when I walk a little bit". Keep an eye on Rice's status throughout the week, as he's a low-end No. 3 WR or 'flex' Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice had no catches in Week 2 against the Colts and injured his right knee in the process. The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports that Rice is scheduled to have an MRI on the knee Monday. "I'm not sure what it is right now," Rice said. "I just felt it pop when I was trying to make a move off the line. I did it in the first half. I went up for a jump ball, and I came down and hit the ground. I did it then. I kept going. I came back out in the third quarter and I tried to make a move, and it just gave out on me. I felt it pop."
Analysis: We'll keep an eye on Rice's knee and deliver the latest news on it when we get it. Until then, consider him nothing more than a decent reserve Fantasy WR for now. The Vikings host the Panthers in Week 3.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice hauled in a 23-yard touchdown from Tarvaris Jackson on a 4th-and-1 play with 14:12 to go in a Week 1 loss to the Packers. A two-point conversion attempt failed when Jackson threw a pass slightly behind Rice in the back of the end zone. Rice was targeted just five times in the game and ended up with two catches for 31 yards.
Analysis: The Vikings expect Rice to make great strides in Year 2 after he had 31 catches for 396 yards and four touchdowns as a rookie. It's good to see him hook up with Jackson for a score, but two catches and under 50 yards is not overly impressive for Fantasy purposes. Rice still remains a low-end Fantasy WR heading into Week 2 against the Colts.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (virus) was back on the practice field Monday, though fellow receivers Bernard Berrian (toe) and Robert Ferguson (calf) did not join their teammates for stretching at the beginning of practice -- the only portion open to reporters.
Analysis: Rice had 31 catches for 396 yards (12.8 avg.) with four touchdowns in 13 games as a rookie in 2007. Look for Rice to progress again in 2008, and then make a big leap by 2009. Figure Rice to be a decent Fantasy reserve option with some good upside heading into the season.
News: The Minnesota Vikings held quarterback Tarvaris Jackson and his top two receivers, Bernard Berrian and Sidney Rice, out of Saturday's preseason game against Pittsburgh. Rice has fought a virus the last few weeks and has not practiced much.
Analysis: Figure Rice to be a decent Fantasy reserve option with some good upside, making him a worthwhile late-round pick in all drafts this summer.
News: Minnesota receiver Sidney Rice caught three passes for 31 yards against the Ravens in Saturday's preseason game.
Analysis: Figure Rice to be a decent Fantasy reserve option with some good upside, making him a worthwhile late-round pick in all drafts this summer.
News:Sidney Rice wasn't all that bad as a rookie receiver. The Vikings' standout had 31 catches for 396 yards (12.8 avg.) with four touchdowns in 13 games. He added two passes for 94 yards.
Analysis: Look for Rice to progress again in 2008, and then make a big leap by 2009. While the Vikings are expected to improve their receiving corps this offseason, Rice should still play a role next season. Figure Rice to be a decent Fantasy reserve option with some good upside, making him a worthwhile late-round pick in all drafts this summer.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (ankle), CB Antoine Winfield (shoulder), LB Vinny Ciurcio (ankle), LB Dontarrius Thomas (groin), S Mike Doss (coach's decision), FB Naufahu Tahi (coach's decision) and third QB Kelly Holcomb (coach's decision) were all named inactive for Minnesota's Week 17 game at Denver. For the Broncos, TE Daniel Graham (ankle), LB Ian Gold (knee), WR Brandon Stokley (knee), FB Mike Bell (coach's decision), DE Larry Birdine (coach's decision), DE Paul Carrington (coach's decision) and third QB Darrell Hackney (coach's decision) were also named inactive.
Analysis: Rice, Graham and Stokley are the three big Fantasy names in this group, but all were questionable coming into Sunday, so their absence is not a huge surprise. Be sure to bench them all in Week 17.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice practiced all week in a limited capacity as the team prepares for Week 17 at Denver. The Vikings list him as questionable for the contest. He continues to battle the ankle injury that kept him out of action Week 16.
Analysis: Rice has just three catches for 31 yards in his last two games after hauling in five catches for 53 yards and a touchdown Week 13 against the Lions. In other words, you probably don't want to start him in Fantasy even if he can play Sunday.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (ankle) has been ruled inactive for Week 16 vs. Washington. Rice did not participate in practice all week. Rice has just three catches for 31 yards in his last two games after hauling in five catches for 53 yards and a touchdown Week 13 against the Lions.
Analysis: Rice, the standout rookie from South Carolina, has settled into a slump after emerging from mediocrity. We might not see him develop into a real threat until Year Three, but remains a decent long-term keeper. He is merely a low-end Fantasy reserve when healthy.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (ankle) is listed as questionable for Week 16 vs. Washington. Rice did not participate in practice all week. Rice has just three catches for 31 yards in his last two games after hauling in five catches for 53 yards and a touchdown Week 13 against the Lions.
Analysis: Rice, the standout rookie from South Carolina, has settled into a slump after emerging from mediocrity. We might not see him develop into a real threat until Year Three, but remains a decent long-term keeper. He is merely a low-end Fantasy reserve heading into Week 16, if healthy.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (ankle) did not practice Wednesday or Thursday as the team prepares for Week 16 vs. Washington. Rice has just three catches for 31 yards in his last two games after hauling in five catches for 53 yards and a touchdown Week 13 against the Lions.
Analysis: Rice, the standout rookie from South Carolina, has settled into a slump after emerging from mediocrity. We might not see him develop into a real threat until Year Three, but remains a decent long-term keeper. He is merely a low-end Fantasy reserve heading into Week 16, if healthy.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice hauled in a 10-yard pass -- nothing more -- Week 15 against the Bears.
Analysis: Rice had put together a pretty good stretch during the end of November and beginning of December, but the rookie out of South Carolina now has only three catches for 31 yards in his last two games. Treat him as nothing more than a No. 4 Fantasy WR in Week 16 against the Redskins.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice has three touchdowns in his last five games, but was held to one catch for 13 yards in Minnesota's earlier meeting with the Bears this season.
Analysis: Rice has shown flashes of his talent in this, his rookie season, but he's part of the second-worst passing attack in the league, which has limited his production in the Fantasy world. Consider him a low-end No. 4 or 'flex' option in Week 15.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice caught two passes for 21 yards during a Week 14 win against the 49ers. His longest catch went for 12 yards. Rice came into the game with a touchdown in two straight contests, but could not make it three straight against the 49ers.
Analysis: Rice has emerged as one of Tarvaris Jackson's favorite target in recent weeks and his Fantasy ownership has been on the rise. The rookie out of South Carolina still doesn't have a 100-yard game and might not get one until the 2008 season. Right now, he is a No. 4 Fantasy WR heading into Week 15 against the Bears and a decent long-term keeper.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice heads into Week 14's game at San Francisco with touchdowns in each of his last two games. The 49ers rank 21st against the pass and have allowed 19 touchdowns through the air, which ranks among the most in the league.
Analysis: Rice was relatively quiet the first half of this season, but he has emerged as a viable Fantasy option in the last few weeks. You need to remember he is part of the second-worst pass defense in the league, however, so only start him as a No. 4 Fantasy WR or 'flex' player in Week 14.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice had five catches for 53 yards and a touchdown Sunday against Detroit.
Analysis: Rice has emerged as the No. 1 WR for Minnesota and is worth adding in all Fantasy leagues. He should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy option in Week 14 at San Francisco.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice led his team in receiving Week 12 at the N.Y. Giants with three catches for 82 yards, including a 60-yard touchdown on the second play from scrimmage.
Analysis: Rice didn't really do anything after that, but he showed he can be a bit of a long-distance threat. Don't hold your breath waiting for another home run, though. In Week 13 vs. Detroit, we don't recommend starting Rice in Fantasy.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice caught two passes for 19 yards and also threw two passes for 94 yards, both on trick plays vs. Oakland in Week 11.
Analysis: Despite the trick plays, Rice still isn't posting big enough stats for consideration in Fantasy play. That should continue when he plays at the N.Y. Giants in Week 12. Keep him off rosters except in dynasty leagues.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Week 11 vs. Oakland. He went through limited practice reps all week. Rice, who did not play Week 10, has 18 catches for 212 yards and two touchdowns in eight games.
Analysis: Rice has yet to develop into the consistent threat the Vikings had hoped for, but it is not totally his fault. The Vikings passing game is pretty pathetic. Rice is nothing more than a Fantasy reserve heading into Week 11.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hamstring) took limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 11 vs. Oakland. Rice, who did not play Week 10, has 18 catches for 212 yards and two touchdowns in eight games.
Analysis: Rice has yet to develop into the consistent threat the Vikings had hoped for, but it is not totally his fault. The Vikings passing game is pretty pathetic. Rice is nothing more than a Fantasy reserve heading into Week 11.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice was named among the inactives for Minnesota's Week 10 trip to Green Bay with a hamstring injury. Rice caught a touchdown in Week 9.
Analysis: With Troy Williamson out, Rice started in Week 9, but Williamson is back in Week 10, so Rice was due to return to the bench anyway. Be sure to bench him in the Fantasy world this week if you're one of his few owners.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Week 10 vs. Green Bay. He took limited practice reps Friday after sitting out Thursday. Rice aggravated the injury during practice Wednesday. He has 18 receptions for 212 yards and has caught two of the team's five touchdown passes.
Analysis: Rice led his team with six receptions for 66 yards and a touchdown in Minnesota's 35-17 win over the Chargers in Week 9. Rice had a nice 75-yard, one-TD outing in Week 4, and his game vs. the Chargers shows that wasn't just a one-off freak thing. At the moment, Rice is a nice keeper league WR, but not much more. He is nothing more than a possible bye-week replacement against the Packers, that is if he plays.
News: Minnesota rookie wide receiver Sidney Rice didn't practice Thursday because of a hamstring injury as the team prepares for Week 10 at Green Bay. After aggravating the injury on Wednesday, Rice was unable to take the field. He has 18 receptions for 212 yards and has caught two of the team's five touchdown passes.
Analysis: Rice led his team with six receptions for 66 yards and a touchdown in Minnesota's 35-17 win over the Chargers in Week 9. Rice had a nice 75-yard, one-TD outing in Week 4, and his game vs. the Chargers shows that wasn't just a one-off freak thing. At the moment, Rice is a nice keeper league WR, but not much more. He is nothing more than a possible bye-week replacement against the Packers, that is if he plays. His status remains questionable.
News: Vikings rookie WR Sidney Rice led his team with six receptions for 66 yards and a touchdown in Minnesota's 35-17 win over the Chargers in Week 9.
Analysis: Rice had a nice 6-75, one TD outing in Week 4, and his game vs. the Chargers shows that wasn't just a one-off freak thing. At the moment, Rice is a nice keeper league WR, but not much more. Leave him on the wire in Week 10 when the Vikings play the Packers.
News: Vikings rookie WR Sidney Rice caught three passes for 27 yards vs. Philadelphia in Week 8.
Analysis: Rice is good for this kind of stat tally each week. Not enough to help your Fantasy team, though. Don't use him vs. San Diego in Week 9.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice had no catches Sunday against Dallas.
Analysis: The entire Vikings passing game was awful against the Cowboys. Don't expect Rice to do much on a weekly basis in this offense.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice caught one pass for 13 yards in Week 6 at Chicago.
Analysis: Rice has shown some flashes of potential this season, but this output shows why he is not ready to be used in Fantasy play. He should only be owned in leagues with ample reserve slots.
News: Sidney Rice faded into the end zone, leaped over a smaller Green Bay cornerback, and hauled down an acrobatic touchdown catch. The fourth-quarter play before last week's bye was the first truly impressive play by a Vikings WR this season, and it's no surprise that the 21-year-old rookie was the one to make it. Rice finished with six catches for 75 yards and a touchdown in the loss to the Packers, and it's looking like he is emerging as the Vikings' go-to threat in the passing game. "Sidney is progressing, I think, better than any rookie receiver that I've seen," veteran receiver Bobby Wade said. "Especially for a young rookie. He's able to make plays. He's able take the learning in the classroom and apply it on the field."
Analysis: Rice is worth keeping an eye on, but he's not worth using at this point. Continue to monitor how he does, and if he plays well again, then consider adding him.
News: Vikings rookie WR Sidney Rice caught six passes for 75 yards with a touchdown vs. Green Bay in Week 4. It's Rice's best game to date.
Analysis: Rice may be a hot waiver-wire item this week, and he's not bad as a low-end flier in deeper Fantasy leagues. The Vikings are on bye in Week 5 but play at Chicago in Week 6. Don't expect Rice to start, but keep his name in mind over the next month or so.
News: Vikings WR Sidney Rice caught two passes for 21 yards during a Week 3 loss to the Chiefs. His longest gain went for 11 yards.
Analysis: The Vikings are excited about Rice's long-term potential, but so far the rookie has just four catches for 31 yards on the season. The Vikings have a poor passing offense right now and Rice is nothing more than a long-term Fantasy keeper heading into Week 4 against the Packers.
News: Vikings TE Jimmy Kleinsasser, WR Aundrae Allison and WR Sidney Rice each didn't record a stat in Week 2 at the Lions.
Analysis: They each didn't record a stat for a reason. Kleinsasser mostly blocks, and Allison and Rice don't play a significant role on the Vikings' offense. Keep them reserved in all leagues.
News: Vikings rookie WR Sidney Rice caught two passes for 10 yards in Week 1 against the Falcons.
Analysis: Keep Rice inactive Week 2 at Detroit, but continue to track him this season. He has a shot at having a modest rookie campaign.
News: Rookie WR Sidney Rice was the second-leading receiver for the Vikings in the preseason, with eight catches for 53 yards and a touchdown. Rice may only be a rookie playing a position that typically takes a few years to learn, but he has already shown a playmaking ability lacking in the rest of a nondescript receiver corps. It's good news for the Vikings, who need all the help they can get as they enter the 2007 season with inexperienced quarterback Tarvaris Jackson at the helm. "He's a tough nut, and he's just going to get better and better," coach Brad Childress said after Rice made several nice plays in the preseason finale against Dallas. "I think he's going to be 21 (years old) here in the next couple of days, so when he grows up, he has a chance to be a good player."
Analysis: Rice benefited from Steve Spurrier's hiring at South Carolina where he caught 142 passes for 2,233 yards and 23 touchdowns in just two seasons of the "Fun-n-Gun." Since he has arrived in Minnesota, everything seems to be coming much more natural for Rice. He's probably on your waiver wire right now; keep him there unless you have an open roster spot, and check him out over the first couple of weeks into the season. He has a shot at having a modest rookie campaign.
News: Minnesota Vikings rookies Adrian Peterson and Sidney Rice weren't present for the team's first two training camp practices, but Rice agreed to a four-year contract Friday night. Shortly after the team finished the afternoon practice, Eric Metz, one of Rice's agents, reached agreement with the Vikings on a deal. Metz said Rice was on his way to camp Friday evening and was due to join his teammates on the field Saturday morning.
Analysis: Rice will have a chance to start for the Vikings considering their sad state of affairs at wideout. His quality hands will help out Tarvaris Jackson's progression a lot. Consider him a late-round flier in seasonal Fantasy play (especially those that reward long receptions and touchdowns) and a middle- to late-round pick in keeper leagues.
News: The Vikings took South Carolina WR Sidney Rice with their second-round pick in the 2007 NFL Draft. Rice was once considered one of the top wideouts in the draft but fell behind during the '06 college season as guys like Ted Ginn, Dwayne Bowe and Robert Meachem passed him up. Rice has awesome size (6-foot-4, 204 pounds) and great speed (4.5 in the 40) and hands, but is a very skinny wideout who can get bumped off routes at the line of scrimmage and could get hurt going over the middle because he doesn't have much bulk.
Analysis: Rice will have a chance to start for the Vikings considering their sad state of affairs at wideout. His quality hands will help out Tarvaris Jackson's progression a lot. Consider him a late-round flier in seasonal Fantasy play (especially those that reward long receptions and touchdowns) and a middle- to late-round pick in keeper leagues.
