News: The South Florida Sun Sentinel reports the Dolphins have signed free agent receiver Mike Wallace on Tuesday. Wallace, who agreed to terms on a five-year deal for $65 million, more than fulfills the Dolphins' stated goal of wanting to get play-makers this offseason. Wallace, the speedy free agent from the Pittsburgh Steelers, provides the downfield big-play threat Miami’s pedestrian passing offense has been missing for years. Last season, he had 64 receptions for 836 yards and eight touchdowns. Two years ago he had 114 receptions for 1,193 yards and eight touchdowns.
Analysis: Wallace to the Dolphins was an expected move, and it makes sense for both parties. Wallace remains a No. 1 option on a team desperate for a No. 1 receiver, and he will be a valuable deep threat for second-year quarterback Ryan Tannehill. Through four seasons Wallace has caught 67 of 235 passes for 20-plus yards with 27 passes going for 40-plus yards. He's also caught at least 60 passes and eight touchdowns each of the last three seasons with a pair of 1,100-plus-yard campaigns in there. Wallace should be considered a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy receiver, and he's worth drafting with a mid-round pick.
News: There have been a number of reports speculating that Mike Wallace will wind up in Miami but none as definitive as the Palm Beach Post's. The paper says, according to a source, that it's a "done deal" that Wallace will sign a mega-rich deal with the Dolphins.
Analysis: In Miami, Wallace would likely fill the role as lead receiver while also serving as a deep-speed threat much like he was in Pittsburgh. Through four seasons Wallace has caught 67 of 235 passes for 20-plus yards with 27 passes going for 40-plus yards. He's also caught at least 60 passes and eight touchdowns each of the last three seasons with a pair of 1,100-plus-yard campaigns in there. He's not the best of route-runners but he is a capable big-play guy with a quarterback in Ryan Tannehill who should be able to connect on some bombs (he had 40 passes go for 20-plus yards but just three for 40-plus yards with a weak receiving corps last year). Wallace might be in the conversation as a No. 2 receiver for some people but we'd be a little more cautious and call him a No. 3 option worth a pick starting in Round 7.
News: FOXSports.com reports Saturday that a league source claims that the Dolphins remain the leading candidate to land free agent wide receiver Mike Wallace. "He prefers warm weather," the source said. According to a report earlier this week, the Vikings and the Titans could also be bidding for his services once free agency kicks off on March 12.
Analysis: Wallace played four season in Pittsburgh and may be ready to play in a warmer climate, which could ultimately give Miami an edge. He has posted at least eight touchdowns in each of the last three years but began to slow down in 2012 after catching 64 passes for just 13.1 yards per catch (836 yards total). We'll continue to keep an eye on where he lands once the free agency period begins. Wallace might be in the conversation as a No. 2 receiver for some people but we'd be a little more cautious and call him a No. 3 option worth a pick starting in Round 7 pretty much wherever he winds up.
News: FOXSports.com reports Saturday that a league source claims that the Dolphins remain the lead candidate to land free agent wide receiver Mike Wallace. "He prefers warm weather," the source said. According to a report earlier this week, the Vikings and the Titans could also be bidding for his services once free agency kicks off on March 12.
Analysis: Wallace played four season in Pittsburgh and may be ready to play in a warmer climate, which could ultimately give Miami an edge. He has posted at least eight touchdowns in each of the last three years but began to slow down in 2012 after catching 64 passes for just 13.1 yards per catch (836 yards total). We'll continue to keep an eye on where he lands once the free agency period begins. Wallace might be in the conversation as a No. 2 receiver for some people but we'd be a little more cautious and call him a No. 3 option worth a pick starting in Round 7 pretty much wherever he winds up.
News: ESPN reported that many people around the NFL expect the Dolphins to chase receiver Mike Wallace when free agency kicks off on March 12, but they're not the only ones. NFL.com says the Vikings will get in on the bidding and Sports Illustrated says the Titans could be interested in adding Wallace.
Analysis: Wallace might be in the conversation as a No. 2 receiver for some people but we'd be a little more cautious and call him a No. 3 option worth a pick starting in Round 7 pretty much wherever he winds up. He'll likely carry that kind of value regardless of where he winds up. Our pick of the three listed would be Miami.
News: CBSSports.com NFL Insider Jason La Canfora reports many in the Steelers organization believe free-agent-to-be receiver Mike Wallace will end up with the Browns. The Steelers are not expected to hang on to Wallace, who is looking for a huge contract this spring. The Dolphins have been linked to Wallace as well.
Analysis: Wallace has posted at least eight touchdowns in each of the last three years but began to slow down in 2012 after catching 64 passes for just 13.1 yards per catch (836 yards total). There's growing concern that Wallace could check out after signing a rich deal this offseason. And if he were to end up in a place with a sub-standard quarterback like Cleveland or Miami his numbers could continue to shrink, especially if he's wedged into the No. 1 receiver's role for a team. Expect Wallace to be had with a mid-round pick this summer.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports receiver Mike Wallace and the Steelers "will part ways" this offseason since Wallace is an unrestricted free agent. The Miami Herald reports "there’s a very good chance Miami will pursue Wallace" with Greg Jennings and Dwayne Bowe also in the mix.
Analysis: Wallace has struggled of late for the Steelers. He went from Pro Bowl receiver to third on the team with 64 receptions and a career-low 13.1-yard average per catch, but he still managed 32 touchdowns the past four seasons. Still, his Fantasy value will be determined based on where he plays, and with the Dolphins he could remain a No. 2 Fantasy option. Stay tuned, and plan on drafting Wallace with a mid-round pick.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that Steelers receiver Mike Wallace seems likely to leave via free agency in two months, creating a major void in an offense that must replace the 235 passes he caught and 32 touchdowns he produced over the past four seasons. Despite Wallace‘s downslide this season it might not be easy to replace what arguably was the fastest wide receiver in Steelers history.
Analysis: We'll find out what Wallace intends to do and what team decides to sign him. He has the chance to remain a solid Fantasy receiver if he ends up in the right situation with the right quarterback, and we would like him if he returned to the Steelers. Keep an eye on where Wallace ends up in 2013, and he's worth drafting with a mid-round pick as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy option.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Steelers receiver Mike Wallace might have played his last game in Pittsburgh. Wallace played 2012 on a one-year contract worth $2.7 million after failing to agree on a contract extension with the Steelers in the offseason. He held out after the Steelers made the $2.7 million tender and missed all the offseason workouts and training camp. He will be an unrestricted free agent, meaning he is free to sign with another team. "I don't know, we'll see," Wallace said about the possibility of returning to the Steelers. "I got big plans, no matter what the situation. I definitely got big plans for myself and my family. We'll see how it goes. Hopefully everything will go in a positive manner." It is unlikely the Steelers will use a franchise tag on Wallace because that means they would have to pay him between $10 million and $11 million next season. "I definitely consider [returning]," Wallace said. "It's the team I've been on my whole career. I don't know anything else. I love playing here."
Analysis: Wallace will likely be coveted by several teams in need of a big-play threat, and he's been a solid playmaker throughout his career. He had 64 catches for 836 yards and right touchdowns in 2012, which was the third year in a row he's scored at least eight times. Keep an eye on where he ends up, but Wallace should be considered a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy option depending on where he signs.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace has been placed on season-ending injured reserve Saturday. Wallace was already ruled out for Week 17 in the season finale against Cleveland with a hip injury. With the Steelers already out of playoff contention, there was no reason not to place Wallace on IR.
Analysis: Wallace was already ruled out for the finale and it is possible that he has played his final game for the Steelers. He's set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Working with a new offensive scheme this season, his numbers were down in some categories as he finished with fewer than 1,100 receiving yards for the first time in three years. But he still hauled in eight touchdown passes as the speedy wideout remained a threat solid downfield. Fantasy owners should monitor Wallace's status during the offseason as he remains a solid keeper option with a favorable landing spot.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace was ruled out for Week 17 against Cleveland with a nagging hip injury. Wallace, who was unable to practice throughout the past week, said the injury was closer to a pulled hamstring. He suffered the injury during last Sunday's loss to Cincinnati when he was held to just one reception for 13 yards -- his second-lowest total of the season. It's the first game Wallace will miss in his career. Emmanuel Sanders is expected to earn additional playing time in Wallace's absence during the season finale.
Analysis: Wallace may have played his final game in a Steelers uniform as the 26-year-old is slated to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. Working with a new offensive scheme this season, his numbers were down in some categories as he finished with fewer than 1,100 receiving yards for the first time in three years. But he still hauled in eight touchdown passes as the speedy wideout remained a threat solid downfield. Fantasy owners should monitor Wallace's status during the offseason as he remains a solid keeper option with a favorable landing spot.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace was unable to practice for the second day in row Thursday, further putting his status for Week 17 against the Browns in doubt. Wallace has been sidelined through the first two days of practice this week due to a hip injury. There is no indication that he suffered the injury during the team’s previous game.
Analysis: Wallace was held to just one catch for 13 yards in the last game, so it would not be a surprise if it did come out that he has been dealing with this issue for a while. If Wallace can play, he would be facing a Browns defense that allows the fifth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers on the season. For now, he should be considered a risky Fantasy start for Week 17.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace was listed on the Wednesday practice injury report with a hip injury as he was unable to practice for the Week 17 season finale against Cleveland. Wallace has a solid matchup coming up Week 17 against a Cleveland team allowing the fifth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers on the season.
Analysis: Wallace did not appear to be injured in the Week 16 loss to Cincinnati but he was held to just one catch for 13 yards in the game. Perhaps a phantom injury was the reason for the poor production. Wallace had been huge in two previous games with 11 catches for over 200 yards and two touchdowns. He remains a weekly solid start in all Fantasy leagues, when healthy.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace had one of his quietest performances of the season in Week 16 against the Bengals. He was held without a catch in the first half and ended up with just one reception for 13 yards in the 13-10 loss. Wallace was targeted five times by quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and also gained minus-1 yard on one carry in the defeat.
Analysis: Wallace was held to just one catch for the second time this season on Sunday as he and Roethlisberger had a hard time getting on the same page. Wallace was open on a few occasions but his quarterback just missed on some plays that would have benefited Fantasy owners in a big way. With the Steelers eliminated from the playoffs, owners should keep an eye out to see if they will play all of their starters in the season finale. If Wallace ends up playing in Week 17 against the Browns, he will be worth a look in the majority of Fantasy formats. Wallace caught just one pass for a season-low 9 yards when the division foes met earlier in the year.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace has 207 yards receiving with two touchdowns over the last two games but will face a tough task in the Bengals in Week 16. Cincinnati ranks 12th in the league in pass defense, giving up under 220 yards per contest, and has limited opposing wideouts to an average of 16.7 Fantasy points, which is fourth-best in the NFL. When the division foes met earlier in the year, Wallace caught eight passes for 52 yards.
Analysis: Wallace struggled in the games quarterback Ben Roethlisberger missed but has re-emerged with his return. He is 177 yards receiving away from reaching 1,000 for the third straight campaign and is also two touchdowns short of matching his career high of 10. Cincinnati has allowed a touchdown to a wideout in two straight games and Wallace had success against them earlier in the year. Keep the 26-year-old active in the majority of Fantasy formats for Week 16.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace got off to a slow start during the Week 15 overtime loss at Dallas Sunday. In the end, however, Wallace finished with a team-high 95 receiving yards on four catches from Ben Roethlisberger. He was targeted nine times overall in the game and had a long grab of 60 yards. Wallace did not score for the Steelers in the game.
Analysis: Wallace didn't even make his first catch of Sunday's game until well after halftime as Roethlisberger had trouble finding him open against the Cowboys. Wallace saw plenty of targets, but just didn't come down with any passes until after the half. His first catch of the game was a 60-yard bomb. He struggled early in the Week 15 contest but was coming off a game in which he caught seven passes for 112 yards with a season-high two touchdowns. He should be able to keep it rolling Week 16 against Cincinnati considering he caught eight passes for 52 yards against them Week 7 in Cincy. Wallace remains a solid Fantasy start in most formats for Week 16.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace is looking to keep his recent success going heading into his Week 15 matchup on the road against the Cowboys. With Ben Roethlisberger back from injury, Wallace produced his first two-touchdown game of the season as he finished with 112 yards on seven catches in Week 14 against the Chargers. He'll face a Dallas defense that has allowed five receiving touchdowns in the last three games. “Anything I do is going to be magnified, good, bad,” Wallace said. “It‘s doesn't really matter. I just got to do what I need to do and handle my business and not give anybody a reason to say anything.”
Analysis: Wallace turned in a great performance for Fantasy owners last week, but had a chance to more as he dropped a potential 88-yard, catch-and-run touchdown in the first half that went through his hands. He was heavily criticized by the home crowd as a result. Regardless, it seems as if he is back to being the reliable receiver that we expected to see, especially with Big Ben now under center again. He has a team-high 728 yards on 59 catches for eight touchdowns this season and is 272 yards away from his third consecutive 1,000-yard season. Opposing wide receiver have scored an average of 20.9 Fantasy points per game against the Cowboys this season. Fantasy owners should view him as a viable starting option heading into Week 15.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace produced his first two-touchdown game of the season and fifth in his career Week 14 vs. San Diego. Both of Wallace's touchdowns -- 11 and 40 yards -- came after Pittsburgh trailed 27-3. He also finished with 112 yards on seven catches, which is the second time this season and 14th time in his career he surpassed 100 receiving yards. Wallace was targeted a team-high 11 times, which included a potential 88-yard, catch-and-run touchdown in the first half that went through his hands. “I’ve got to catch that,” Wallace said, per the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. “That’s all there is to it. Ben (Roethlisberger) gave me a shot, so I’ve to come up with it.”
Analysis: Wallace was such a huge disappointment the last few weeks that many Fantasy owners decided to leave him on their bench Week 15 despite Roethlisberger's return from injury Sunday. Wallace was having another poor outing before breaking out in the second half. He had just two catches for 27 yards at halftime. But the game is four quarters long and Wallace finished with an outstanding Fantasy performance. All of his eight touchdowns this season have come from Roethlisberger, so it's time for Fantasy owners to get excited again about Wallace's outlook. Consider him a viable Fantasy start heading into Week 15 at Dallas.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace (knee) is active Week 14 vs. San Diego after being probable on the injury report. Wide receivers are averaging 157.8 receiving yards and 22 Fantasy points per week against the Chargers. Wide receivers have totaled 15 touchdowns in 12 games against San Diego, but none in the last two games and have been denied a touchdown in four of the last six games against the Chargers.
Analysis: Wallace's blames his recent struggles on concentration issues, but those issues might be put to bed Week 14 with the return of starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who has missed the last three games due to multiple injuries. All six of his touchdowns this season have come from Roethlisberger. Wallace is still listed as a co-starter on the Steelers' depth chart, but Roethlisberger's return gives Wallace a chance to re-emerge offensively. He is still a low-end Fantasy starter Week 14.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace was labeled probable for Week 14 against San Diego as he continues to move past a knee issue. Wallace was a full participant throughout the past week and will attempt to rebound from a stretch of subpar performances -- no outings with more than 50 yards in his past four games -- with the return of Ben Roethlisberger under center. The 26-year-old cited a lack of concentration for his down season that could result in him missing 1,100-plus yards for the first time in three years. "When you don’t get the ball for two-and-half quarters, you lose focus," he told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review on Thursday. "But that’s the type of offense this is. We’re spreading it around, so you’re not going to get as many targets. When you get them, you have to make the best of them."
Analysis: Wallace is considered one of the league's premier deep threats as he has struggled in new offensive coordinator Todd Haley's scheme. Over his past four games, he has just 13 receptions for 93 yards and one touchdown. "When I don’t get the ball for a certain amount of time, I lose focus sometimes," he said. "It hurts me when it’s time for me to make a play." But he could receive a boost Sunday as all six of his touchdowns this season have come from Roethlisberger. Wallace is still listed as a co-starter on the Steelers' depth chart, but Roethlisberger's return gives Wallace a chance to re-emerge offensively. He is still a low-end Fantasy starter Week 14, but his outlook just got a little brighter. Wide receivers are averaging 157.8 receiving yards and 22 Fantasy points per week against the Chargers.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace returned to being a full participant in practice Thursday after sitting out Wednesday to rest a knee injury. That wasn't the only good news. The Steelers also announced Thursday quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will return to the lineup Week 14 vs. San Diego after missing the last three games. Wide receivers are averaging 157.8 receiving yards and 22 Fantasy points per week against the Chargers. Wide receivers have totaled 15 touchdowns in 12 games against San Diego, but none in the last two games and have been denied a touchdown in four of the last six games against the Chargers.
Analysis: Wallace is certainly glad to see Big Ben making his return. Wallace's last touchdown came Week 10 vs. Kansas City, which was the last time Roethlisberger took a snap in a game. In fact, all of Wallace's six touchdowns this season have come from Roethlisberger. In three starts Roethlisberger sat out, Wallace totaled 10 catches for 77 yards and no touchdowns. Wallace is still listed as a co-starter on the Steelers' depth chart, but Roethlisberger's return gives Wallace a chance to re-emerge offensively. He is still a low-end Fantasy starter Week 14, but his outlook just got a little brighter.
News: Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday wide receiver Mike Wallace is nursing a knee injury and might be limited during the practice week, but he is expected to play Week 14 vs. San Diego. Wide receivers are averaging 157.8 receiving yards and 22 Fantasy points per week against the Chargers. Wide receivers have totaled 15 touchdowns in 12 games against San Diego, but none in the last two games and have been denied a touchdown in four of the last six games against the Chargers.
Analysis: The last thing Wallace needed was an injury to contend with as his numbers have tanked the last few weeks. After totaling just 11 catches for 113 yards in four November games, Wallace opened December with five catches for 44 yards Week 13 against the Ravens. He also doesn't have a touchdown in his last three games. Wallace has had to play the last few weeks without quarterback Ben Roethlisberger throwing passes his way. Roethlisberger has a chance to return Week 14, but the Steelers are planning for Charlie Batch to be under center. Even if Wallace plays Sunday, he would remain a low-end Fantasy option. His value would only increase if Roethlisberger returns.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace was fairly productive in Week 13 against the Ravens. Wallace hauled in five receptions for 44 yards in the 23-20 win, but was unable to find the end zone. He had a long of 15 yards and was targeted eight times by Charlie Batch, which was second behind only Antonio Brown's 10. Heath Miller led the team in receiving as he finished with five receptions for 97 yards and a score.
Analysis: While Wallace was technically demoted to a co-starter heading into the contest, he was still on the field quite a bit Sunday and turned in his most productive performance in quite some time. Still, it was far from being over impressive as he has now failed to register 50 yards receiving in each of his last four games. However, Wallace's production will likely remain limited until Ben Roethlisberger is able to get in the lineup. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on Big Ben's status heading into Week 14 against the Chargers. Wallace would be considered more of a low-end option if Batch earns another start.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace did not seem to be too fazed by being demoted on the team's depth chart heading into Week 13 against the Ravens. Wallace, who as listed as a co-starter along with WR Emmanuel Sanders Tuesday, said that coach Mike Tomlin does "everything for a reason" and added that he didn't know who will start come Sunday. "It really doesn't matter. I am still going to be in the football game." Wallace will be facing a Ravens defense that is allowing an average of 244 passing yards per contest. Baltimore has surrendered nine touchdowns through the air while yielding an average of 20 Fantasy points to opposing WRs, which ranks 12th overall. "I am not doing how I expected," Wallace said. "I had back-to-back 1,000-yard receiving seasons, so I don't feel like I am making enough plays this season. Anybody that doesn't produce is going to be frustrated. I am not different from anyone else when they don't do what they are expected to do. It's frustrating."
Analysis: It appears Tomlin is trying to send a message to his players as Rashard Mendenhall was also demoted this week. While Mendenhall's demotion is a bit easier to understand, Wallace's is a bit more puzzling. Some think it could the result of an incident that happened behind closed doors, but no reports have surfaced suggesting as much. Wallace's play the last few games has been poor because Ben Roethlisberger has been out with multiple injuries and it appears that will be the case once again. Sure the return of Antonio Brown should help ease some of the double teams Wallace has drawn in recent weeks, but we still have doubts about Batch's ability to get him the football. With all the uncertainty surrounding the Steelers this week, owners are best to consider Wallace merely a low-end option against Baltimore.
News: Steelers coach Mike Tomlin sent a mixed message Tuesday when talking about wide receiver Mike Wallace. Tomlin acknowledged he is considering Wallace a co-starter at split end with Emmanuel Sanders, which was initially indicated when Pittsburgh released its pregame depth chart for Week 13 at Baltimore. Tomlin said "situations" will determine who starts. Tomlin also said he doesn't have a problem with Wallace's effort, but, "He's not producing in a manner that he wants to, or in a manner we want him to." Tomlin finally said Wallace "was frustrated" Sunday against the Browns, when he had one catch for 9 yards, but many passes thrown his way by quarterback Charlie Batch were off the mark.
Analysis: It's hard to get a read on what Tomlin is trying to accomplish here. He says he is not upset with Wallace's effort and his poor performance Sunday had a lot to do with Batch's play, but yet he is demoting him from his starting role. Either something is going on behind closed doors or else Tomlin is sending a bigger message to his team. Wallace's play the last few games has been poor because Ben Roethlisberger has been out with multiple injuries. Roethlisberger might return Week 13, but Tomlin said Tuesday he is preparing as though Batch will start again. That's not good news for Wallace. Consider Wallace just a low-end Fantasy start Week 13.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace had a disappointing day Week 12 at Cleveland. Wallace was held to one catch for 9 yards. He had a 9-yard catch called back because of a holding penalty, but didn't do much despite being targeted seven times by quarterback Charlie Batch.
Analysis: We weren't expecting a great performance from Wallace Sunday because Batch was at the helm of the offense. Still, his performance against the Browns was downright disappointing. Wallace has done well in the past when Batch has made spot starts for Pittsburgh, but he just couldn't get going Sunday. Wallace has just seven catches for 38 yards in his last two games. He is clearly missing Ben Roethlisberger's presence at quarterback. If Roethlisberger returns Week 13 at Baltimore, then consider Wallace a viable Fantasy start. If Batch has to start again, then Wallace will remain a risky play.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace will be dealing with his third starting quarterback in as many games Week 12 at Cleveland as Charlie Batch takes over under center. Ben Roethlisberger is expected to miss a second straight game because of multiple injuries and backup Byron Leftwich is out with multiple rib fractures. Although, Wallace has had some good games when Batch has started for Pittsburgh. In Week 3 in 2010 at Tampa Bay, Wallace hooked up with Batch for three catches for 100 yards and two touchdowns. In Batch's only start in 2011, Wallace managed a team-high 82 receiving yards on four catches in a Week 16 win vs. St. Louis.
Analysis: After a great start this season, which included a touchdown in four of the first five games, Wallace has been up and down lately. He does have two touchdowns in his last five games, but is averaging just 44 receiving yards in that span. Fantasy owners probably need to temper expectations Week 12 because the Steelers are starting a third-string quarterback. But Wallace could still serve as a low-end Fantasy starter. Wallace has totaled 15 catches for 324 yards and two touchdowns in six career games against Cleveland. Wide receivers are averaging 180.7 receiving yards and 26.6 Fantasy points per week against Cleveland. Receivers have also totaled 14 touchdowns in 10 games against Cleveland, but only two in the last four games.
News: With Antonio Brown still out with a knee injury, Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace failed to take advantage and was held in check against the Ravens in Week 11. Wallace barely made an impact and caught only three of six passes thrown his way for 26 yards in a 13-10 defeat. Wallace fumbled his first reception of the night -- a 15-yard gain -- back to the Ravens. He hauled in just one catch for 2 yards in the second half after getting off to a solid start early on. Wallace was the second-leading receiver on the night behind Emmanuel Sanders, who caught three passes for 82 yards.
Analysis: Wallace, who is known to stretch the field out for the Steelers, had a tough time getting on the same page with Byron Leftwich, who took the start over an injured Ben Roethlisberger, Leftwich does not have a strong arm and was not able to connect with Wallace for any big plays on the night. He'll try to bounce back on the road against the Browns next week. Cleveland allowed 343 yards through the air, including a 100-yard performance from Dez Bryant in Week 11 against the Cowboys. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Wallace in most formats as he has a favorable matchup against a weak passing defense heading into Week 12.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace could be in for more targets again heading into Week 11 against the Ravens. With Antonio Brown's status in doubt, Wallace could be in line to take over again this week. He hauled in his sixth touchdown reception of the season in Week 10 against the Chiefs and will be looking to extend his touchdown streak to three games against a Baltimore defense that has allowed three touchdowns to opposing wide receivers in the last three games. Wallace will have to earn his targets from a different signal caller under center, as Ben Roethlisberger has been ruled out of Sunday's game with injuries to his should and ribs.
Analysis: Leftwich has not thrown a touchdown pass in a Steelers uniform since 2008, when Wallace was still playing football at Ole Miss. Wallace will have to develop some chemistry with the veteran, who may have no choice but to throw it towards his way if Antonio Brown isn't healthy enough to play. The Ravens are yielding 21.4 Fantasy points per week to wide receivers. Wallace remains Pittsburgh's top option in the passing game and should see plenty of looks next week no matter who is under center. Fantasy owners should continue to view him as a viable option in most formats heading into Week 11.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace hauled in his sixth touchdown reception of the season in Week 10 against the Chiefs. Wallace was on the receiving end of a 7-yard scoring strike from Ben Roethlisberger in the second quarter, which capped off a seven-play, 50-yard scoring drive. He was able to pull down his TD reception with one hand and then balance the ball between his legs before rolling out of bounds. Wallace finished with three catches for 14 yards and a score in the 16-13 win.
Analysis: Wallace dropped what looked to be a sure TD reception earlier in the second quarter, but more than made up for it with his one-handed grab, which may have been the catch of the year thus far. However, Wallace and the rest of Pittsburgh's receivers may have a different signal caller under center next week as Roethlisberger's shoulder injury could force him to miss some time. Fantasy owners will have to keep an eye on Big Ben's health over the next few days to see if he will be able to suit up when the Ravens head to town in Week 11. Still, even if Byron Leftwich gets the start, Wallace remains Pittsburgh's top option in the passing game and should see plenty of looks next week no matter who is under center. Continue to view Wallace as a must-start option in all formats against Baltimore.
News: With Antonio Brown expected to sit out due to a knee injury, Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace could be in for a few more targets in Week 10 against the Chiefs. Wallace, who is currently ranked second on the team in targets (63) and receptions (39) behind Brown, hauled in his fifth touchdown reception of the season in Pittsburgh's win over the Giants last week. The Chiefs enters the contest allowing an average of 222 passing yards per contest. Kansas City has surrendered 17 scores through the air while yielding an average of 22 Fantasy points to opposing WRs.
Analysis: Wallace could be in line to see some extra targets this week, albeit Emmanuel Sanders will also see some looks in Brown's absence. The 26-year-old is in the midst of another productive campaign for the Steelers and could really have some success this weekend as Ben Roethlisberger's main target on the outside. The Chiefs have really struggled to defend the pass at times this season and have surrendered six TDs to opposing wideouts over past three games. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Wallace as a must-start option in all formats this Monday night.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace ultimately led the Steelers in receiving on Sunday of Week 9 at New York. Wallace, who was nowhere to be found for most of the game, came up huge with a 51-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter to help the Steelers come back on the Giants. Wallace finished with three catches for a team-high 66 yards and the score. He was targeted five times in the passing game by quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.
Analysis: Wallace did next to nothing for the first three quarters of the Week 9 game before his 51-yard touchdown reception to help the Steelers close a gap against the Giants. The long TD snapped a two-game scoreless streak for Wallace as he now has five on the season. The Steelers appear to be spreading the ball around a lot more of late and that appears to be one cause for Wallace's struggles recently. Still, he came up big late Sunday and has been one of the most targeted receivers on the team. Wallace could break out with another big performance Week 10 against the Chiefs and is definitely recommended for use in all Fantasy formats.
News: Pittsburgh receiver Mike Wallace heads into the Week 9 game at New York with 15 receptions in his last two games as the Steelers have opened up the passing offense. Wallace has 114 receiving yards in those two games but hasn't scored a touchdown since starting the year with four in his first five contests. The Giants can be passed on as they are allowing the sixth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers on the year. Just last week both Miles Austin and Dez Bryant topped 100 yards against them and Jason Witten also had a huge game.
Analysis: Wallace has never before faced the Giants in his career but did have seven catches for 62 yards last week against the Redskins, another porous pass defense. Wallace has become the most reliable pass-catching option for Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers and should be a focal point in the passing game Sunday against the Giants. New York will be beaten through the air if anything and we expect a solid performance from Wallace in the game. He can be active in all Fantasy formats for Week 9.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace was heavily involved in the passing game in Sunday's Week 8 win over the Redskins. Against Washington's porous pass defense, Ben Roethlisberger found Wallace open seven times for 62 yards to lead the Steelers in receiving yards and catches. Wallace did not get into the end zone, however, as the Steelers had Will Johnson, Leonard Pope and Heath Miller catch TD passes.
Analysis: Wallace and the Steelers didn't torch the Washington secondary like some other teams have been able to do but they got the job done in the end regardless. Fantasy owners may have been expecting a bit more from Wallace, but the Steelers found other ways to score. Still, Wallace continues to be production and reliable for Fantasy owners. He can continue to be active in most formats for Week 9 at the Giants.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace has one of the best matchups you can get Week 8 at home against the Redskins. That is because Washington has been giving up huge production to opposing wide receivers all season. The Redskins are allowing the absolute most Fantasy points per game to the WR position this year and have allowed at least a 100-yard receiving game and at least one touchdown by a wide receiver in all but one game this season. That was Week 5 against Atlanta when Julio Jones finished with 10 catches for 94 yards and a score against the Redskins. What is more, although he's never played Washington, Wallace has nine receiving touchdowns in 13 career games against the NFC.
Analysis: Washington has been so bad against wide receivers this season that they have allowed at least 115 yards to a receiver six times already this season. Players have eclipsed 130 yards against them four times, including Victor Cruz (131, TD) and Percy Harvin (133) in back-to-back games. Wallace and Antonio Brown are both solid starts in Week 8 against the Redskins, but Wallace is the premier option for Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers with four touchdowns already this season. He is absolutely a must-start for Sunday's game.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace was held out of the end zone for just the second time this season in Week 7 against the Bengals. After posting just three catches for 16 catches in the first half, he finished with 52 yards on eight grabs in the 24-17 win. Wallace also carried the ball twice for 7 yards. Wallace, who was targeted a team-high 15 times, finished third on Pittsburgh in receiving behind wideout Antonio Brown (96 yards) and tight end Heath Miller (53 yards).
Analysis: Wallace would have been more productive Sunday night had it not been for a couple of drops and he averaged a season-low 6.5 yards per grab. Still, he has posted at least 50 yards receiving in all but two games thus far and continues to be a solid red-zone target for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Owners should be sure to keep the 26-year-old active in the majority of Fantasy formats for Week 8 against the Redskins.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace has scored four touchdowns through five games this season and will look to find the end zone again in Week 7 against the Bengals. Cincinnati ranks 17th in the league in pass defense, giving up 228 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 18 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. In two games against the division foe last season, Wallace caught nine passes for 92 yards and two touchdowns.
Analysis: Wallace scored twice the last time he played Cincinnati and is already halfway to his touchdown total from a year ago. Aside from one bad game, he has been a solid option for owners thus far and could be in for another productive performance Sunday night. Keep in mind that the Steelers could also be without Rashard Mendenhall (Achilles) and Isaac Redman (ankle) for Week 7 so keep Wallace active in all formats against the Bengals.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace bounced back from a very quiet game in Week 5 with one of his best in Week 6 against the Titans Wallace was not actively involved in the offense for much of the game, bringing in just two catches, but he definitely made them count. Wallace finished the game with 94 receiving yards, including 82 yards on a first-quarter touchdown reception. He was targeted just four times in the game, as the Steelers fell, 26-23.
Analysis: This was Wallace’s second-best game as far as yards go, and he has now scored four times in five games. So much for all that concern that his holdout would affect his production. Wallace is averaging 69 receiving yards per game, just behind his pace of 74.6 last season. He should be good for a third consecutive 1,000-yard campaign, and he is already halfway to his touchdown total from 2011. Wallace will look to keep rolling next Sunday, as the Steelers get set to travel to Cincinnati. Wallace has four touchdowns in six career games against the Bengals, so owners should continue to consider him a high-end Fantasy option in all formats for Week 7.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace had a productive performance against the Titans a year ago and will be looking for similar success when the two teams meet again in Week 6. Wallace caught six passes for 82 yards and a touchdown. Tennessee ranks 25th in the league in pass defense, giving up nearly 280 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 21.4 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: After catching just two passes for 17 yards a week ago, Wallace appears to be in for a serious bounce-back game as the Titans have not been able to slow down many teams so far this season. Owners have long forgot about his contract dispute during the preseason and he has been productive thus far with three touchdowns and 251 yards receiving through four games. Owners that drafted Wallace as a No. 1 Fantasy wideout should continue to roll with the 26-year-old in all formats against the Titans.
News: Steelers receiver Mike Wallace had his first bad game of the season Sunday against the Eagles in Week 5. Wallace was held to two catches for 17 yards despite getting eight targets. This was the first time this season Wallace failed to score.
Analysis: Wallace should be able to rebound in Week 6 at the Titans on Thursday night. He now has 19 targets in his past two games, and he should continue to be involved. Keep him active in most formats.
News: Steelers receiver Mike Wallace has a tough matchup in Week 5 against the Eagles. Through four games the Eagles have allowed just four touchdowns to opposing receivers and only three have reached double digits in Fantasy points. But Wallace, who has a touchdown in each game this season and is coming off his best game against Oakland in Week 3 with eight catches for 123 yards, could be catching Philadelphia at the right time. In the Eagles past two games against Arizona and the Giants, they have given up three touchdowns to Larry Fitzgerald, Michael Floyd and Victor Cruz, and Domenik Hixon, Cruz and Fitzgerald all had over 100 receiving yards.
Analysis: Wallace is playing too well right now to consider benching even in a tough matchup. Keep him active in all leagues and hope his touchdown streak continues in Week 5.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace turned in a stellar performance during Sunday's game against the Raiders in Week 3. Wallace led the team in receiving as he was targeted a team-high 11 times and eclipsed the 100-yard mark for the first time this season in a 34-31 victory. Wallace caught eight of the 11 passes thrown his way for 123 yards, averaging 15.4 yards per game. Ben Roethlisberger found Wallace for a 22-yard touchdown strike in the third quarter for his third touchdown in as many games this season.
Analysis: Wallace is starting to hit his stride for the Steelers as his numbers continue to increase. It was his first 100-yard game since October of 2011 as he has 17 receptions for 234 yards and three touchdowns through his first three games. The Steelers will have a bye week heading into Week 4 as they'll prepare for their matchup at home against the Eagles in Week 5. Wallace has yet to face the Eagles in his career and should be viewed as a must-start Fantasy option heading into Week 5.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace (groin) was listed as active for Sunday's matchup against the Raiders. Wallace practiced in full on Thursday and Friday, but missed practice on Wednesday. He is among a handful of players tied for fourth in the NFL with two receiving touchdowns entering Sunday's matchup. In addition, Wallace has hauled in nine of the 11 combined passes thrown in his direction during the first two games for a solid average of 12.3 yards per catch.
Analysis: It seems like Wallace is healthy enough and ready to be a big contributor for the Steelers on Sunday. He has a rich history against Oakland and posted three receptions for 116 yards and a touchdown during the teams' last meeting in 2010 -- one of seven 100-yard outings for the 26-year-old that season. Fantasy owners should keep Wallace should remain active in all formats heading into Sunday.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace is considered probable for Week 3 at Oakland after dismissing a minor groin injury in practice. Wallace sat out Wednesday's practice in order to rest the issue, but has been a full participant the past two days and is slated to play against the Raiders. He is among a handful of players tied for fourth in the NFL with two receiving touchdowns entering Sunday's matchup. In addition, Wallace has hauled in nine of the 11 combined passes thrown in his direction during the first two games for a solid average of 12.3 yards per catch.
Analysis: Wallace remains a scoring machine during the early part of the season and is the only Steelers wide receiver with two touchdowns. Antonio Brown has piled up yards, but has yet to reach the end zone. Meanwhile, Wallace has a rich history against Oakland and posted three receptions for 116 yards and a touchdown during the teams' last meeting in 2010 -- one of seven 100-yard outings for the 26-year-old that season. The Raiders are yielding an average of 16.0 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers this season and Wallace should remain active in all formats.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace (groin) returned to practice Thursday after sitting out Wednesday. He was listed as a full participant as the team prepares for Week 3 at Oakland.
Analysis: As we suspected, it seemed Wallace just got a rest day Wednesday. His status for Week 3 is not in jeopardy. Despite missing most of the preseason because of a contract holdout, Wallace has gotten off to a surprising start in 2012. He has scored in each of his first two games and appears there won't be much of a drop-off for the veteran receiver. Start him in all Fantasy formats Week 3.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace (groin) did not practice Wednesday. Pittsburgh is at Oakland in Week 3.
Analysis: As of now, we are treating this just as a rest day for Wallace. If he doesn't practice Thursday, then it becomes more concerning. But for now there is no need to hit the panic button. Just be aware Wallace is on the injury report. If he is active Sunday, then Wallace remains a viable Fantasy start in all formats.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace tallied five receptions for 74 yards and a touchdown during the Steelers' 27-10 win over the Jets in Week 2. Wallace, who has now scored in both games this season, collected five targets from quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. On his 37-yard touchdown catch in the third quarter, the Pro Bowl wideout let New York cornerback Antonio Cromartie fly by then snatched the ball out of the air before tucking both feet in bounds. "Ben is one of the top in the game," Wallace said. "I'll ride with him against anybody."
Analysis: It's hard to believe Wallace missed the entire preseason because of a contract dispute as he seems in mid-season form already after just two games. Wallace has hauled in nine of the 11 passes thrown in his direction as he seems to be content with the Steelers' new offense that also includes plenty of targets for Antonio Brown. "Nobody can get too upset because everybody is touching the ball," he said. "You're not just getting opportunities to go catch it, (the passes are) coming right on the money." With another scoring opportunity on the horizon at Oakland in Week 3, Wallace should remain active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace certainly likes the beginning of a season. Wallace proved again in the Steelers opener last week that September is one of his favorite months as he hauled in a 3-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter from quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. It was his fifth touchdown catch in his past five games during the month of September and he'll look to continue his strong play early during Week 2 against the Jets. Wallace had seven catches for 102 yards in his only regular-season meeting versus New York in 2010.
Analysis: It seems the only issue Wallace did wait on was his contract as he missed the entire preseason seeking a new deal from the Steelers. But it didn't appear to slow the 26-year-old during Week 1 as he quickly worked up to game shape and totaled four catches for 37 yards and the touchdown. Wallace remains a strong threat downfield for Pittsburgh and his Fantasy value could receive a boost after cornerback Darrelle Revis was ruled out for Sunday's game. Fantasy owners should keep Wallace active in all formats for Week 2.
News: There were some moments in Sunday’s season opener against the Broncos when it was clear that the time Steelers’ receiver Mike Wallace missed in training camp as a result of a holdout had him out of sync in the offense, but he was still able to find the end zone in a 31-19 loss in Week 1. Wallace brought in just four passes for 37 yards, but scored on a 3-yard touchdown pass from Ben Roethlisberger in the fourth quarter to put the Steelers up at the time. Wallace was targeted six times in the game, the fourth-highest total on the team.
Analysis: Wallace has been rushing to learn the new playbook, and there were a few times in the game where it was clear that Wallace was not on the same page as the rest of the offense. He found himself open downfield a few times in the game, but Roethlisberger was unable to find him. The two have enough of a track record (back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons) that we have little reason to think they will not figure things out soon. The Steelers head home next week to take on the Jets, so Fantasy owners should still consider him a somewhat risky start, given the defense on the opposing side of the field.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace, who recently ended his 35-day holdout, isn't concerned about starting Week 1 against the Broncos as much as getting on the field. “We’ll have to see on Sunday,” Wallace said. “I’m working towards it (starting). I’ve been out there practicing pretty hard to get to where I need to be. We’ll see if I’m ready to play on Sunday. But I’m feeling pretty good. Hopefully I can use these next two (practice) days to my advantage.” Offensive coordinator Todd Haley hasn't defined Wallace's role for the opener, but he is eager to get him up to speed as quickly as possible. “We know that Mike has been a big part of this, and he’s going to be a big part of this as we go forward,” Haley said. “He’s had a couple days to get acclimated. He’s been studying, he’s kept himself in shape, so he’ll have a chance to succeed. You can tell that he’s a true pro, a veteran.”
Analysis: Wallace has been in a rush to learn the Steelers' new playbook. Fellow wide receiver Antonio Brown commented Wallace looks "real, real fast" and "real, real ready.” While this is all encouraging, you still have to wonder if he will be limited Sunday after missing so much of the preseason. Wallace has been one of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's favorite targets since his arrival in 2009 and the two have connected for 22 touchdowns. The Broncos yielded 231.5 passing yards per game last season and 14 touchdowns to opposing receivers. Hopefully, Wallace will return to his must-start status quickly, but for Week 1 it couldn't hurt to temper expectations.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace wasted little time catching up to speed Monday. In his first practice since signing his one-year tender last week, Wallace participated in drills with the first team and stayed on the field for additional work as he attempts to regroup after missing all of training camp. "I finally get to be back with the guys, playing football instead of watching it," Wallace said after his first practice in eight months. "It feels good to be back with my teammates and be out there just learning the offense. I like where I’m at, but I still have a way to go. ... I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else."
Analysis: After posting a career-high 72 catches for 1,193 yards last year, Wallace didn't sit idle during his holdout and worked with coaches on his conditioning, as well as learning the playbook installed by new offensive coordinator Todd Haley. "I have a good grasp of it. It’s just running the plays off of it," he said. "I am getting there. I like where I am at." Wallace has been one of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's favorite targets since his arrival in 2009 and the two have connected for 22 touchdowns. He should be ready for the Steelers' season opener Sunday at Denver, and is considered a high-end Fantasy option. The Broncos yielded 231.5 passing yards per game last season and 14 touchdowns to opposing receivers.
News: The Steelers and wide receiver Mike Wallace will continue contract dialogue this week, but chances of an extension appear slim, sources told CBSSports.com on Saturday. Pittsburgh has a well-documented history of not engaging in contract talks during the regular season, and that will apparently not change. According to reports, Wallace could land a five-year deal worth roughly $50 million with at least half of that total guaranteed, but he has been fixated on making $11 million per season or more. Wallace is entering his fourth season in the NFL.
Analysis: The sides have re-established a dialogue after Wallace ended his 35-day holdout last Tuesday, but have yet to bridge their gap. Should Wallace accept that the $10-million per season is fair, then a deal is possible prior to the Steelers' Week 1 matchup Sept. 9. Otherwise, he stares at the prospect of playing this season for less than $3 million and then could be slapped with the franchise tag in 2013 and 2014, which could prompt another holdout. Wallace could have company as the Steelers' big-play receiver with Antonio Brown blossoming into a star. But with its running game limping, Pittsburgh is expected to favor an aerial attack and Wallace will remain a favorite target of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Fantasy owners should look for Wallace in Round 3.
News: After an agonizing 35-day holdout, Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace arrived at the team's practice complex Tuesday and is expected to sign his one-year tender, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Wallace, who has been seeking a long-term deal with the Steelers, skipped all of training camp and will ultimately miss all four preseason games. Because of NFL labor agreements, he cannot participate in contact drills in practice for the first three days. With Pittsburgh not working out Friday to Sunday, Wallace won't take part in his first official practice until Monday. "Whatever I do is what I did," he told reporters. "I have no regrets."
Analysis: Wallace will now have less than two weeks to prepare for the team's season opener Sept. 9 at Denver, but he might not need much time getting up to speed. The 26-year-old, who is entering his fourth NFL season, reportedly told teammates he is familiar with the playbook created by new offensive coordinator Todd Haley. Wallace amassed a whopping 3,206 yards and 24 touchdowns on 171 receptions in his first three seasons, but could have company as the Steelers' big-play receiver with Antonio Brown blossoming into a star. But with its running game limping, Pittsburgh is expected to favor an aerial attack and Wallace will remain a favorite target of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Fantasy owners should look for Wallace in Round 3 now that he is expected to play a full year.
News: Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger expressed excitement Wednesday when talking about wide receiver Mike Wallace, who will end his preseason holdout and report to camp this weekend. He is expected to sign his one-year tender, worth $2.7 million. "I talked to him today. He's excited. We're excited," Roethlisberger said. "He's been working out, not just on strength and conditioning, but working through [the new offense]. If he's put the work in that I think and he's telling me he's doing, I think he'll be fine."
Analysis: Hopefully, Wallace and the Steelers will continue to talk about a long-term contract before the regular season starts. We would hate for this to turn into another DeSean Jackson situation where Wallace doesn't give full effort because he doesn't want to risk his chances of signing a long-term deal because of an injury. Wallace would have been a Top 10 Fantasy receiver if he didn't hold out. Wallace was also a huge disappointment in the second half last season. He had just one game with double digits in Fantasy points after Week 9, and he didn’t have 100 yards after Week 7. With that said, Wallace still is worth drafting as a Fantasy starter, so look to him beginning in Round 4 at the earliest.
News: Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace is expected to end his holdout and sign his one-year tender worth $2.7 million this weekend, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Wallace, who has remained steadfast about a new contract after the team signed fellow receiver Antonio Brown to a lucrative deal, could play in the Steelers' final preseason game against Carolina on Aug. 30. He will likely join the team Monday and have two weeks of practice to prepare for the team's Week 1 matchup at Denver on Sept. 9.
Analysis: Although the Steelers stated they were done negotiating with Wallace -- at least when he was absent from training camp -- they could reopen contract discussions with the Pro Bowl receiver. Pittsburgh typically doesn't negotiate during the regular season so there won't be much time for the two sides to come to an agreement before the opener. Wallace paced the team with 72 catches for 1,193 yards and eight touchdowns last year, but will have to quickly adapt to new offensive coordinator Todd Haley's scheme. Fantasy owners should monitor his status and target him as a high-end No. 2 receiver worthy of a selection in Round 4 of most drafts.
News: ESPN reports Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace is expected to report before the regular season begins. The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported last week Wallace is expected to report to training camp in the near future.
Analysis: You know the deal with Wallace. He is looking for a new contract, but the Steelers said they won't negotiate until he shows up for camp. It does appear Wallace will eventually report, but the longer he holds out obviously makes any Fantasy owner nervous. Questions about the kind of shape he's in and how quickly he can adapt to new offensive coordinator Todd Haley's system loom large. Wallace isn't as safe of a pick as he was last season -- prepare to take him as a No. 2 receiver in Round 5 or so. But if he proves he's in shape and can adapt to Haley's offense, he could start to move up rank lists and draft boards. Stay tuned.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports Steelers holdout Mike Wallace is working out in Florida with noted NFL trainer Tom Shaw and is expected to report to training camp in the near future. Shaw insists Wallace has been training hard as if he were in camp and pictures were posted to the trainer's Facebook page. "He's fast as lightning right now," said Shaw. "He's not going to put himself in a bad situation (conditioning-wise) so that he couldn't play in the first game."
Analysis: CBSSports.com NFL Insider Pat Kirwan suggested Wallace could be back by mid-August and his timetable could be right on. The Steelers won't talk to him about a new deal until he reports for camp. A trade also seems unlikely. Like the Steelers, Fantasy owners have to wait Wallace out and hope he reports before too long. Questions about the kind of shape he's in and how quickly he can adapt to new offensive coordinator Todd Haley's system also loom large. Wallace isn't as safe of a pick as he was last season -- prepare to take him as a No. 2 receiver in Round 5 or so. But if he proves he's in shape and can adapt to Haley's offense, he could start to move up rank lists and draft boards. We'll keep you posted.
News: CBSSports.com NFL Insider Pat Kirwan writes from Steelers camp that Mike Wallace's holdout could be over relatively soon, and a new contract could follow suit. "Some Steelers fans are mad at Mike Wallace for holding out, but the people who know this team best believe he will be in camp around mid-August. I agree," Kirwan wrote. "Wallace will not win his toe-to-toe battle with the Rooneys for a big contract. Granted, when the Steelers dropped a big deal in the lap of Antonio Brown it looked like Wallace was destined to a restricted tag this season and a potential franchise tag for the 2013 and 2014 seasons. That's one option for the club, but I am more inclined to think they get a long-term deal done with Mike Wallace."
Analysis: On Monday Steelers GM Kevin Colbert said the team has had "no contact" with Wallace and won't talk to him about a new deal until he reports for camp. A trade also seems unlikely. Like the Steelers, Fantasy owners have to wait Wallace out and hope he reports before too long. Questions about the kind of shape he's in and how quickly he can adapt to new offensive coordinator Todd Haley's system also loom large. Wallace isn't as safe of a pick as he was last season -- prepare to take him as a No. 2 receiver in Round 5 or so.
News: Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert told a Pittsburgh radio station Monday that the team has established "no contact" with wide receiver Mike Wallace as he continues his holdout. Wallace has yet to report to training camp as he seeks a new contract similar to the deal Vincent Jackson received from Tampa Bay ($55.5 million over five years) in the offseason. "Mike knows where things stand," Colbert said. "The next step for him really is to report and to sign his tender, and until that happens, there won’t be anything else. And if that happens, nobody knows where it will go from there."
Analysis: Both sides of the contract situation seem adamant about not relenting from their respective stances, and this is the latest move in the stalemate. Wallace's leverage took a hit when the Steelers signed emerging wideout Antonio Brown in late July. "That's where it is and has been, and hopefully it comes to an end sooner rather than later because it will be good for us, but it will also be good for Mike," Colbert said. Wallace 's holdout has also affected his status in Fantasy drafts as he should be viewed as a No. 2 receiver option and not a top wideout. In the latest CBSSports.com mock draft, Wallace slipped to the fifth round -- look for him around there until he ends his holdout.
News: Day 7 of The Mike Wallace Watch was even quieter than the previous six. If there was any doubt about whether the Pro Bowl wide receiver meant business by refusing to sign the Steelers' $2.7 million restricted free-agent tender or report to camp, there's none anymore. Unlike the mandatory reporting day last Wednesday or the first full practice Thursday or even the day a press conference was held to recognize fellow receiver Antonio Brown's new contract Saturday, the name "Wallace" was barely heard across the St. Vincent College campus Tuesday. The longer this persists, you get the feeling the more ready the Steelers are to move on without their speedy receiver.
Analysis: Based on the Steelers' history with Hines Ward, they won't shell out a dollar for Wallace's services beyond the restricted free-agent tender. And based on their history with Santonio Holmes, they have no trouble trading a malcontent -- though they've said up to this point they wouldn't deal Wallace if another team came calling. We'll see if Wallace stays away through next weekend and the team's first preseason game. If he's still out by mid-August, we could have an ugly situation that could be similar to what happened in San Diego with Vincent Jackson two seasons ago. For now Wallace must be considered a No. 2 Fantasy receiver, not a No. 1 option, since he could hold out for a while (or report out of shape and struggle in the early going). We'll keep you posted.
News: After rumors circulated over the weekend of a possible move, Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert said Sunday the team will not consider trading holdout wide receiver Mike Wallace. "Mike Wallace is not available for trade," he told ESPN. Wallace has failed to report to training camp and the team reportedly has suspended long-term contract negotiations with him. He finished with 72 receptions for 1,193 yards last year.
Analysis: Wallace's frustration with Pittsburgh over his contract status may have intensified after the team provided a five-year, $42.5 million extension to teammate Antonio Brown last Friday. According to reports, the 25-year-old Wallace said he is seeking a contract similar to the deal Vincent Jackson received from Tampa Bay ($55.5 million over five years). With the Steelers installing a new offense this year Wallace could struggle to adapt if he doesn't report to camp soon. Wallace clearly has No. 1 potential in Fantasy, but he might fall to No. 2 status in drafts while he holds out. Fantasy owners shouldn't let him drop further than the fourth round in all upcoming drafts -- for now.
News: While Mike Wallace continued his holdout on Friday, the Steelers gave a five-year, $42.5 million contract extension to teammate Antonio Brown. That pushes the Steelers' 2012 cap number even higher this season but not necessarily next season, and that's when they could use the franchise tag on Wallace. What about a long-term deal for Wallace? The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports no such deal will be made after Brown signed his extension. Wallace is an unsigned restricted free agent with a standing one-year $2.7 million tender offer from the team.
Analysis: Perhaps Wallace will realize he's not going to get any kind of new deal sitting at home and report to the Steelers soon. Or, perhaps he'll realize he's not going to get any kind of new deal from the Steelers and sit at home until another team makes a move for him. Wallace's options seem limited for now as the Steelers have all the leverage against him. Making matters worse is the Steelers installing a new offense this year, and Wallace could struggle to adapt if he doesn't get with the program sooner than later. Wallace obviously has No. 1 potential in Fantasy but he might end up getting picked as if he were a No. 2 Fantasy receiver while he holds out. The sooner he rejoins the Steelers, the sooner his draft value will rebound. Until then you might find him available in Round 4 in most formats. We'll keep you posted on Wallace's situation.
News: Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert said Thursday the team will not offer wideout Mike Wallace a new contract until he reports to camp. A restricted free agent, Wallace, a starter in the Pro Bowl last season, was offered a one-year, $2.7 million tender by Pittsburgh. He has not signed it and did not take part in any of the Steelers' offseason workouts or minicamp. Wallace wants a contract similar to that of Larry Fitzgerald after totaling 171 receptions for 3,206 yards with an average of 18.7 yards per catch and 24 touchdowns over the first three years of his career. "Every negotiation is unique, you put best foot forward and hope to reach an agreement, and it takes two parties to reach an agreement," Colbert said according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. "Obviously we're not at that stage and we've chosen to not progress with negotiations at this point."
Analysis: Quick story: The Steelers let Hines Ward stay away in 2005 and he missed a chunk of training camp, reporting for work the day of their first preseason game. Soon thereafter he signed a four-year deal and then scored 11 touchdowns while helping the Steelers to a Super Bowl win. Wallace can only wish he can have a storybook season like that, but it's all the evidence you need that the Steelers will likely not budge and not reward Wallace until he shows up. That could take some time. Making matters worse is the Steelers installing a new offense this year, and Wallace could struggle to adapt if he doesn't get with the program sooner than later. Wallace obviously has No. 1 potential in Fantasy but he might end up getting picked as if he were a borderline No. 1/No. 2 Fantasy receiver while he holds out. The sooner he rejoins the Steelers, the sooner his draft value will rebound. Until then you might find him available in Round 4 in most formats. We'll keep you posted on Wallace's situation.
News: Restricted free agent Mike Wallace's training-camp holdout became official when he did not arrive by 3 p.m. to move into his dorm room and take part in coach Mike Tomlin's conditioning test. Wallace, a starter in the Pro Bowl last season, was offered a one-year, $2.7 million tender by Pittsburgh. He has not signed it and did not take part in any of the Steelers' offseason workouts or minicamp. Wallace wanted a contract similar to that of Larry Fitzgerald after totaling 171 receptions for 3,206 yards with an average of 18.7 yards per catch and 24 touchdowns over the first three years of his career. Steelers cornerback Keenan Lewis was a high school teammate of Wallace's, and the two worked out "every day" over the summer along with other players in the New Orleans area. Lewis proclaimed Wallace "in the best shape he's ever been in," and predicted he would eventually arrive at camp. "I'm pretty sure he'll be here," Lewis said. "He's a football player, he loves playing the game. I'm pretty sure he doesn't want to sit out."
Analysis: Quick story: The Steelers let Hines Ward stay away in 2005 and he missed most of training camp, reporting for work the day of their first preseason game. Soon thereafter he signed a four-year deal and then scored 11 touchdowns while helping the Steelers to a Super Bowl win. Wallace can only wish he can have a storybook season like that, but it's all the evidence you need that the Steelers will likely not budge and not reward Wallace with a new deal until he shows up. That could take a few weeks. Making matters worse is the Steelers installing a new offense this year, and Wallace could struggle to adapt if he doesn't get with the program sooner than later. Wallace obviously has No. 1 potential in Fantasy but he might end up getting picked as if he were a borderline No. 1/No. 2 Fantasy receiver while he holds out. The sooner he rejoins the Steelers, the sooner his draft value will rebound. Until then you might find him available in Round 4 in most formats. We'll keep you posted on Wallace's situation.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that as of Tuesday, the Steelers are still waiting on receiver Mike Wallace to sign his one-year tender offer. They have been negotiating a multiple-year deal for Wallace for a while, but, while there have been reports of optimism they will strike a deal, there is none yet. In the meantime, he has another option; he could sign his one-year tender of $2,742,000 offered in restricted free agency. That would allow him to report immediately and practice while the sides try to work out a longer, more lucrative deal. The report says the Steelers do not know what Wallace plans to do. If he does not sign, he cannot report, and there is no punishment or fines because he does not have a contract. If he wanted, he could sit out the first 10 games of the season, report for the final six and become an unrestricted free agent next year. That's not likely to happen because it would not enhance his value as a free agent in 2013, particularly after his second-half slump last season.
Analysis: Wallace skipped all team activities in the spring when Todd Haley introduced his new offense. He picked up the new playbook, but the Steelers believe it's crucial for him to be on the field to learn it in training camp. We expect Wallace to pick up the offense just fine, and hopefully he will not hold out for an extended period of time. Continue to monitor what develops, but we consider Wallace a No. 1 Fantasy receiver in all leagues. He is worth drafting in Round 3.
News: CBS Sports NFL Insider Jason La Canfora reports that the Steelers continue to make headway with receiver Mike Wallace on a new contract. La Canfora reports that both sides are motivated to do a long-term deal and talks are ongoing with training camp looming.
Analysis: The Steelers would like to get Wallace into camp on time so he can learn offensive coordinator Todd Haley's new offense after missing out on offseason practices. Let's see what happens next but go ahead and pencil Wallace into drafts between Rounds 3 and 4 as a No. 1 option.
News: ESPN reports the Steelers and restricted free agent Mike Wallace could agree to an extension before training camp opens in late July. Wallace has previously said he won't sign his one-year tender offer worth $2.72 million "until he has to."
Analysis: Ultimately, it's fairly safe to expect him back in Pittsburgh, which is probably for the best. What would really be nice is if Wallace signed his tender and played in a contract year again, which could yield some really nice stats for Fantasy owners to enjoy as he plays his best to break the bank next spring. Wallace has back-to-back 1,200-total-yard seasons with at least eight scores in each year, so it's pretty clear that he's a capable NFL receiver. Let's see what happens next but go ahead and pencil Wallace into drafts between Rounds 3 and 4 as a No. 1 option.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that the Steelers don't plan to slash Wallace’s still-unsigned one-year restricted free agent tender worth $2.72 million to $577,000 for the upcoming season. “That’s never been an intention of ours,” Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert said in a radio interview. “When we tendered Mike at the amount we did, the compensation through that tender, we really had no issue with that whatsoever because he is deserving of that.” Wallace skipped voluntary organized team activities over the past month along with mandatory minicamp this week. Because Wallace has yet to sign his tender, and technically isn’t under contract, he was not required to attend any offseason practices. Colbert said that the organization is still confident that the two sides will come together on a long-term contract before the start of the season. “We want him to get a long-term deal that he deserves and I am real confident that we will be able to do that because when both sides want the same thing, it is only a matter of time,” Colbert said.
Analysis: Wallace reportedly wants somewhere in the neighborhood of $12-16 million a year, which would put him among some of the top paid receivers in the league. The Steelers will not pay Wallace that kind of money because they don’t believe in paying a receiver as much as their franchise quarterback. The next important date for Wallace will be July 25 – the first day of training camp. We hope Wallace is ready to go by Week 1, and we still consider him a No. 1 Fantasy receiver heading into the season. Keep an eye on his status, and Wallace should be worth drafting by Round 3 or 4 in most formats.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Steelers president Art Rooney II has a message for wide receiver Mike Wallace, who is absent from the team's three-day minicamp. "He should be here," Rooney said. The Steelers have until Friday to either reduce or pull the one-year, $2.7 million offer they tendered Wallace as a restricted free agent. The team is not expected to do that, though, and will continue to try to sign him to a long-term contract. However, there has been little, if any, movement in negotiations. Coach Mike Tomlin said he isn't worried about Wallace missing the conditioning aspect of the offseason training activities and minicamp. But he also said he would prefer that his fourth-year receiver be here with the rest of his teammates. "Mike has always been guy who's in tip top condition over a 12-month calendar since we had him," Tomlin said. "He's a sharp guy. I'm sure he's working at the learning element of it. But there's no substitute for being here and being around your teammates and learning the nuances and learning from other people's mistakes."
Analysis: We hope Wallace is ready to go by Week 1, and we still consider him a No. 1 Fantasy receiver heading into the season. Keep an eye on his status, and Wallace should be worth drafting by Round 3 or 4 in most formats.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that Steelers receiver Mike Wallace, as expected, did not report for Tuesday's minicamp practice. He has not yet signed his $2.742 million one-year tender as an RFA. Offensive coordinator Todd Haley said he's not concerned that Wallace will not pick up the new offense, according to the Sports Xchange. "He'll be behind a little bit, but he has to pick it up so he will," Haley said. "We'll make sure that occurs."
Analysis: Wallace is seeking a long-term extension. He reportedly was looking for Larry Fitzgerald-type money — $120 million over eight years. He has until June 15 to sign his tender before the Steelers could reduce their offer to 110 percent of his $580,000 salary last year. Wallace also could hold out until Nov. 12 and still be credited with an accrued season, making him an unrestricted free agent next year. We hope Wallace is ready to go by Week 1, and we still consider him a No. 1 Fantasy receiver heading into the season. Keep an eye on his status, and Wallace should be worth drafting by Round 3 or 4 in most formats.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that Steelers receiver Mike Wallace is still dealing with his contract situation, and he expressed his frustration to cornerback Ike Taylor. Taylor said during his weekly radio show on Tuesday that Wallace is frustrated with contract negotiations, and he wants to be at offseason practices but also wants what he believes he is due. “There is a lot of frustration with Mike right now,” Taylor said. “He wants to be here. ... But at the same time he wants his paper. Mike feels like he outperformed his last contract. But he’s dealing with a monster, and that’s the Pittsburgh Steelers … they are not going to let you dictate to them on how you feel.” Wallace has yet to sign his first-round restricted free agent tender that would guarantee him a $2.16 million raise for this season, bringing his salary to $2.742 million. He missed the fourth consecutive voluntary practice yesterday and isn’t expected to attend offseason workouts, including mandatory minicamp next month.
Analysis: Wallace is seeking a long-term extension. He reportedly was looking for Larry Fitzgerald-type money — $120 million over eight years. He has until June 15 to sign his tender before the Steelers could reduce their offer to 110 percent of his $580,000 salary last year. Wallace also could hold out until Nov. 12 and still be credited with an accrued season, making him an unrestricted free agent next year. We hope Wallace is ready to go by Week 1, and we still consider him a No. 1 Fantasy receiver heading into the season. Keep an eye on his status, and Wallace should be worth drafting by Round 3 or 4 in most formats.
News: Restricted free agent Mike Wallace really isn't a free agent anymore. Per the terms of the collective bargaining agreement, Wallace's chance to sign elsewhere expired in April, meaning that his only two options are to sign his one-year, $2.7 million tender with the Steelers, or hold out. According to ESPN, Wallace will wait to sign his tender until the last possible minute, which will likely be June 15. Per the CBA, the Steelers can drop the guaranteed value of the one-year tender to under $600,000 after June 15, which means Wallace would lose over $2 million by not signing. Wallace is unlikely to participate in offseason workouts with the team but would be a part of training camp if he signs by the June 15 deadline. The Steelers have said they'd like to sign him to a long-term deal.
Analysis: Ultimately, it's fairly safe to expect him back in Pittsburgh, which is probably for the best. What would really be nice is if Wallace signed his tender and played in a contract year again, which could yield some really nice stats for Fantasy owners to enjoy as he plays his best to break the bank next spring. Wallace has back-to-back 1,200-total-yard seasons with at least eight scores in each year, so it's pretty clear that he's a capable NFL receiver. Let's see what happens next but go ahead and pencil Wallace into drafts between Rounds 3 and 4 as a No. 1 option.
News: No teams offered restricted free agent Mike Wallace an offer sheet before the April 20 deadline, meaning that Wallace has no choice but to sign his one-year tender with the Steelers. According to ESPN, Wallace is considering a holdout for as long as possible given that he's unhappy with his contract situation. Wallace was reportedly looking for Larry Fitzgerald-type money but instead will likely play on a one-year, $2.7 million deal this season. Wallace could hold out through training camp if he so desires but per the CBA, the Steelers could withdraw the tender and replace it with an offer worth 110 percent of his 2011 salary ($577,000). The Steelers have said they'd like to sign him to a long-term deal.
Analysis: There's also a chance, albeit slim, that the Steelers could trade Wallace. Ultimately, it's fairly safe to expect him back in Pittsburgh, which is probably for the best. What would really be nice is if Wallace signed his tender and played in a contract year again, which could yield some really nice stats for Fantasy owners to enjoy. Wallace has back-to-back 1,200-total-yard seasons with at least eight scores in each year, so it's pretty clear that he's a capable NFL receiver. Let's see what happens next but go ahead and pencil Wallace into drafts between Rounds 3 and 4 as a No. 1 option.
News: With the market window closing on Mike Wallace as a restricted free agent, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review cites a league source saying that a few teams are showing interest in trading for the wide receiver. Wallace is unhappy with receiving the restricted tender from the Steelers and has until April 20 to sign an offer sheet with another club or else be forced to either sign the one-year tender from the Steelers (or a longer deal if he can agree to terms) or hold out. Wallace plans to hold out for now, skipping the team's offseason programs that start this month.
Analysis: The thinking is that a team interested in Wallace would give up a pick lower than a first rounder and pay him. That would open the door for several teams that wouldn't normally part with their first-round pick to consider the star receiver (St. Louis and Jacksonville, to name two). Wallace has back-to-back 1,200-total-yard seasons with at least eight scores in each year, so it's pretty clear that he's a capable NFL receiver. Let's see what happens next but go ahead and pencil Wallace into drafts between Rounds 3 and 4 as a No. 1 option.
News: Steelers restricted free agent Mike Wallace is not expected to sign a contract with a new team between now and April 20, ending his bid to land a long-term deal from another team. Now he's looking to the Steelers for a big contract extension, but the two sides are "struggling" to find common ground. As a result, ESPN reports that Wallace will not sign his restricted free-agent tender and will not report for offseason workouts and minicamps until he gets the deal he's been looking for.
Analysis: Once April 20 passes, Wallace is locked into a one-year deal with the Steelers (unless he opts not to play, which isn't going to happen) and will be in a contract year provided that he doesn't sign a long-term deal. His speed is an asset and makes him one of the most dangerous receivers in the NFL and thus a good low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR. Let's see what happens next but go ahead and pencil Wallace into drafts between Rounds 3 and 4.
News: Before free agency kicked off, it was believed that wide receiver Mike Wallace was a candidate to change teams as a restricted free agent. But with less than two weeks left for restricted free agents to sign offer sheets, Wallace has yet to make a move. The Steelers tendered him at the first-round level, meaning that he can sign it and play on a one-year deal, negotiate a long-term deal with the Steelers or sign an offer sheet with another team. If the Steelers choose not to match the offer sheet, they will receive a first-round pick as compensation. The Steelers are in trouble finding cap space and might not be able to afford Wallace, who posted back-to-back 1,200-total-yard seasons with at least eight scores in each year.
Analysis: Once April 20 passes, Wallace is locked into a one-year deal with the Steelers (unless he opts not to play, which isn't going to happen) and will be in a contract year provided that he doesn't sign a long-term deal. His speed is an asset and makes him one of the most dangerous receivers in the NFL and thus a good low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR. Let's see what happens next but go ahead and pencil Wallace into drafts between Rounds 3 and 4.
News: It's official: Steelers wide receiver was not tagged by the team, meaning that he might get swiped by another squad as a restricted free agent this offseason. Wallace is expected to get a first-round tender worth about $2 million for 2012. He can sign it and play on a one-year deal, negotiate a long-term deal with the Steelers or sign an offer sheet with another team. If the Steelers choose not to match the offer sheet, they will receive a first-round pick as compensation. The Steelers are in trouble finding cap space and might not be able to afford Wallace. The Bears, Texans, Bengals, Ravens, 49ers and Patriots are all teams picking 19th or later in the first round and need receiver help. "He could get an offer from another team, but ultimately we get to make a decision on Mike," Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert said Monday.
Analysis: The speedster could be on a new team in 2012. CBSSports.com NFL Insider Pat Kirwan has an interesting take on what might happen. Wallace has posted back-to-back 1,200-total-yard seasons with at least eight scores in each year. His speed is an asset and makes him one of the most dangerous receivers in the NFL and thus a good low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR. Let's see what happens next but go ahead and pencil Wallace into drafts between Rounds 3 and 4.
News: The Steelers are planning to give wide receiver Mike Wallace the first-round restricted free-agent tender and not the franchise tag before the start of free agency, ESPN reports citing a source close to the receiver. That means another team can offer Wallace a lucrative contract and give up a first-round pick as compensation if the Steelers choose not to match it. The Steelers are in trouble finding cap space and might not be able to afford Wallace. The Bears, Texans, Bengals, Ravens, 49ers and Patriots are all teams picking 19th or later in the first round and need receiver help.
Analysis: If the Steelers indeed choose not to franchise Wallace, then the speedster could be on a new team in 2012. CBSSports.com NFL Insider Pat Kirwan has an interesting take on what might happen. Wallace has posted back-to-back 1,200-total-yard seasons with at least eight scores in each year. His speed is an asset and makes him one of the most dangerous receivers in the NFL and thus a good low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR. Let's see what happens next but go ahead and pencil Wallace into drafts between Rounds 3 and 4.
News: A day after Mike Wallace contemplated his future as a member of the 49ers or Patriots, Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert came out Thursday and suggested that Wallace's future will be in Pittsburgh. "We're going to do everything we can to make sure Mike Wallace remains a Pittsburgh Steeler. And I think that’s Mike's hope as well," Colbert said from the NFL Combine via ProFootballTalk.com. "Usually when you have two parties that share the same goal, it's easier to achieve that goal. ... We want to make sure Mike can finish his career with the Steelers. I'm very confident that Mike wants to finish his career with the Steelers and play with a great quarterback like Ben Roethlisberger. ... We think he's only scratched the surface in what he can do."
Analysis: Colbert added that the Steelers could use the franchise tag on Wallace but he's waiting on the final salary cap number before determining whether or not the team can afford it. The Steelers are currently over the salary cap and need to clear space in order to absorb the $9.4 million one-year contract necessary to keep Wallace as a franchise tagged free agent. If the Steelers tender him as a restricted free agent, though, he could get snapped up by another team. Fantasy owners have come to rely on Wallace as a low-end No. 1 option but keep in mind that if he does sign a long-term deal, he will not be in a contract year in 2012, which is what he would be if he were playing under a one-year deal. It's going to get interesting starting around March 5.
News: In an interview with SiriusXM NFL Radio on Wednesday, wideout Mike Wallace spoke candidly about possibly signing with a new team if the Steelers do not give him the franchise tag this offseason. Wallace is scheduled to be a restricted free agent and will at least receive a first-round tender offer from the Steelers, which means a team willing to part with a first-round pick can sign him to an offer sheet. When asked if he would consider signing with the 49ers or Patriots, two teams with late first-round picks and a need at receiver, Wallace said: "Most definitely. Those are the two true playoff-caliber teams who I think that the right person and right piece to those guys will put them over the top. All they need is one more piece to any one of those puzzles on both sides of those teams. So most definitely, they're Super Bowl contenders. If I were to consider going somewhere else, those would definitely be two teams ... I wouldn't want to go anywhere and leave the situation where I'm at where I have a great quarterback and a great organization and go somewhere where I don't feel like I can succeed."
Analysis: Wallace went on to drive two points home: He feels as though he deserves a wealthy contract, and that he wants to play for a winner. The Niners and Patriots qualify, as do 2011 playoff teams like the Texans, Ravens and Bengals, all of whom have late first-round picks and an interest in improving their receiving corps while weakening the Steelers. Not many restricted free agents change teams, but the circumstances in Pittsburgh favor Wallace because the Steelers don't have a lot of cap room to allot to Wallace. Fantasy owners have come to rely on Wallace as a low-end No. 1 option but keep in mind that if he does sign a long-term deal, he will not be in a contract year in 2012, which is what he would be if he were franchised or signed to a one-year tender offer by the Steelers. It's going to get interesting starting around March 5.
News: Days after CBSSports.com NFL Insider Pat Kirwan speculated that the Steelers could lose wide receiver Mike Wallace if they don't give him the franchise tag, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that the Steelers will let Wallace test the market as a restricted free agent and are not in a position to franchise him for a one-year salary of $9.4 million. The Steelers are reportedly $10 million over the 2012 salary cap as it is. As a restricted free agent, Wallace could sign elsewhere but the new team would have to give up a first-round pick if they sign him to a deal the Steelers don't choose to match. Teams picking late in the first round of April's draft -- the Ravens, 49ers and Patriots to name three -- could be interested in making Wallace a rich offer that the Steelers might have a hard time matching.
Analysis: Sounds like the opportunity will exist for Wallace to leave Pittsburgh and sign a long-term deal. Keep in mind, restricted free agents don't change teams as often as unrestricted free agents. But not many restricted free agents are as good as Wallace, who had 1,193 yards and eight touchdowns in 2011 and has been solid since entering the NFL back in 2009. Though there's some people who think Wallace has struggled to beat Cover-2 defenses and isn't the great receiver his stats suggest, Fantasy owners have come to rely on Wallace as a low-end No. 1 option. Keep in mind that if he does sign a long-term deal, however, he will not be in a contract year in 2012, which is what he would be if he were franchised or signed to a one-year tender offer by the Steelers. It's going to get interesting.
News: ESPN.com's Adam Schefter expressed his belief, via Twitter, that there is a 50-50 chance that a team attempts to sign receiver Mike Wallace away from the Steelers. Pittsburgh is $11 million over the salary cap and in a vulnerable position to lose Wallace if a team is willing to pay and give up a first-round draft pick.
Analysis: Wallace played well in 2011 with 72 catches for 1,193 yards and eight touchdowns on 114 targets. Pittsburgh wants him desperately to remain with them, but the team is in a tough position with the salary cap. There is still a chance he can sign a long-term deal. No matter where he lands, Wallace should be considered a Top 10 Fantasy wise receiver on Draft Day.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Steelers GM Kevin Colbert said Monday the team wants to keep WR Mike Wallace "here for the long run." Wallace, their leading receiver last season, will become a restricted free agent March 13.
Analysis: Wallace played well in 2011 with 72 catches for 1,193 yards and eight touchdowns on 114 targets. He will remain in Pittsburgh in 2012, and hopefully he can sign a long-term deal. We consider Wallace a Top 10 Fantasy WR on Draft Day, and he should be selected in all leagues in Round 3.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace finished with three receptions for 26 yards during the Steelers' 29-23 loss at Denver in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Sunday. Wallace also rushed for a score from the 1-yard line on a nifty play during the third quarter to give Pittsburgh its first touchdown of the game. It was the first time he reached the end zone since Dec. 4 against Cincinnati when he hauled in two touchdown passes. Wallace posted a team-high 10 targets from QB Ben Roethlisberger in the game.
Analysis: Wallace salvaged his lowly receiving output with the touchdown -- the first rushing score of his three-year career. But he was severely limited in the passing game on Sunday after topping 1,000 yards for the second straight season and recording a career-high 72 catches. Part of Wallace's struggles can be attributed to Roethlisberger's ankle injury down the stretch as he scored just two receiving touchdowns in his last seven games. He still remains a No. 1 Fantasy WR and should be viewed as an early-round selection in 2012 Fantasy drafts.
News: Pittsburgh wide receiver Mike Wallace did not have the best game in the Week 17 regular-season finale at Cleveland. Despite the Steelers coming away with the win, Wallace caught just one pass in the game for 11 yards. He did not score in the game as Ben Roethlisberger targeted him five times. Pittsburgh took to the ground for most of the game.
Analysis: Wallace finished the regular season on a down note as he failed to score a touchdown in his final four regular-season games. That said, he did catch eight touchdowns on the year as he was one of the top Fantasy receivers around. Wallace and the Steelers head into the playoffs now, though they won't get a first-round bye. They must play in the Wild Card round and Wallace should have a good effort in that game. Wallace can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR for the playoffs and heading into next year.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace is active and starting in the Week 17 regular-season finale against the Browns. He was limited in practice earlier in the week due to an ankle injury. Wallace hauled in four passes for 57 yards during his first matchup with the Browns this season.
Analysis: Cleveland is immensely better defending the pass (second in the NFL) than the run (30th) and was able to limit the dynamic Wallace earlier this season. Wallace has 71 receptions this year and needs 18 receiving yards to reach 1,200 for the second consecutive season. The Browns are permitting an average of 13.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts -- second fewest in CBSSports.com standard leagues. Consider Wallace a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for the Week 17 matchup.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace was listed as probable on Friday's injury report and is expected to play in Week 17 against the Browns. He was limited in practice earlier in the week due to an ankle injury. Wallace hauled in four passes for 57 yards during his first matchup with the Browns this season.
Analysis: Cleveland is immensely better defending the pass (second in the NFL) than the run (30th) and was able to limit the dynamic Wallace earlier this season. Wallace has 71 receptions this year and needs 18 receiving yards to reach 1,200 for the second consecutive season. The Browns are permitting an average of 13.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts -- second fewest in CBSSports.com standard leagues. Consider Wallace a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for the Week 17 matchup.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace was elevated to full practice on Thursday after displaying improvement with his minor ankle injury. Wallace was limited in Wednesday's practice, but is expected to play in Week 17 against Cleveland. Wallace hauled in four passes for 57 yards during his first matchup with the Browns this season. Plus, if Pittsburgh darts out to a large lead, the team could rest its starters the rest of the game.
Analysis: Cleveland is immensely better defending the pass (second in the NFL) than the run (30th) and was able to limit the dynamic Wallace earlier this season. Wallace has 71 receptions this year and needs 18 receiving yards to reach 1,200 for the second consecutive season. The Browns are permitting an average of 13.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts -- second fewest in CBSSports.com standard leagues. Consider Wallace a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for the Week 17 matchup.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace, who was limited in practice on Wednesday with an ankle injury, has a tough matchup coming up in the regular-season finale at Cleveland. Fantasy owners can expect the Steelers to run the ball down Cleveland's throats and, with Ben Roethlisberger banged up, should expect less throwing of the football. That doesn't bode well for Wallace, who caught four passes for 57 yards and no scores against the Browns Week 14. Plus, if Pittsburgh is blowing out the Browns, the team is liable to rest the starters the rest of the way. Wallace's ankle is not expected to keep him from playing in the season finale.
Analysis: Wallace under-performed against the Browns the last time out because Cleveland is best beaten on the ground. The team is solid against the pass and most teams just concentrate on the run against them. With Roethlisberger hurting and possibly out for the game, expect the Steelers to do just that. That said, Wallace is one of the most consistent receiving options out there and is certainly the top option for the Steelers. He just caught four passes for 82 yards last week, and can be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 17.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace has a tough matchup coming up in the regular-season finale at Cleveland. Fantasy owners can expect the Steelers to run the ball down Cleveland's throats and, with Ben Roethlisberger banged up, should expect less throwing of the football. That doesn't bode well for Wallace, who caught four passes for 57 yards and no scores against the Browns Week 14. Plus, if Pittsburgh is blowing out the Browns, the team is liable to rest the starters the rest of the way.
Analysis: Wallace under-performed against the Browns the last time out because Cleveland is best beaten on the ground. The team is solid against the pass and most teams just concentrate on the run against them. With Roethlisberger hurting and possibly out for the game, expect the Steelers to do just that. That said, Wallace is one of the most consistent receiving options out there and is certainly the top option for the Steelers. He just caught four passes for 82 yards last week, and can be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 17.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace was fairly productive in Week 16 against the Rams. Wallace finished with four receptions for a team-high 82 yards in the 27-0 victory, but was unable to find the end zone. He appeared to score on a 46-yard reception in the fourth quarter, but the call was overturned by the replay booth. Wallace was targeted seven times by Charlie Batch on the afternoon, and averaged 20.5 yards per reception.
Analysis: With Ben Roethlisberger sidelined with an ankle injury, most were very unsure if Wallace would be worth starting this week. While most owners would have loved to have seen that touchdown hold up, it is hard to be upset about his performance on Saturday, especially given the circumstances. With the Steelers still trying to improve their playoff position, most feel Wallace and the majority of the starters will play in Week 17 against the Browns. The 25-year-old hauled in four receptions for 57 yards in the team first meeting this year, so owners in leagues that run through Week 17, should consider him a No. 1 Fantasy WR next Sunday.
News: Steelers receiver Mike Wallace should be able to get back into the end zone for the first time in three games in the Week 16 contest at home against the Rams. Wallace, who is averaging 103.3 receiving yards per game against the NFC this season, is facing a Rams team allowing the sixth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers. The Rams have allowed WRs to rack up 2,464 yards and 17 touchdowns this season. Just last week rookie A.J. Green racked up six catches for 115 yards against the Rams.
Analysis: Wallace, who has never before played the Rams, has nine catches for 113 yards and no scores in his last two games, but caught three passes for 38 yards and two touchdowns Week 13 against the Bengals. Wallace has 1,100 yards receiving this season with eight touchdowns and he has a very good chance of scoring Week 16 against the Rams. Fantasy owners can consider Wallace a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 16.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace was targeted for a bunch of passes in Week 15 against the 49ers but was only able to come up with less than half of them. QB Ben Roethlisberger threw his way a team-high 12 times with Wallace catching five passes for 66 yards in the 20-3 loss. Roethlisberger was picked off in the end zone on the first drive of the game while trying to throw his way. Wallace had a long reception of 36 and averaged 13.2 yards per game. It was the seventh straight game he was held under the century mark.
Analysis: Wallace posted his most catches since Week 10 on Monday night but was held out of the end zone once again. After recording four 100-yard performances over the first seven games, with five touchdowns over that span, he has been fairly disappointing for owners and Roethlisberger's play could have something to do with it. Keep an eye on the QB situation going forward to see if the Steelers decide to make a change against the lowly Rams in Week 16. But considering how poor St. Louis has been against the pass thus far, view Wallace as no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy WR next week.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace has not posted a 100-yard performance since Week 7 but will be looking to correct that stat on Monday night against the 49ers. San Francisco enters Week 15 ranked 18th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 234 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 22.1 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Wallace posted four 100-yard performances over the first seven games this season but the closest he's come since was 70 yards in Week 8. Still, his ability to find the end zone has served him well in Fantasy as he has eight touchdowns on the year. San Francisco has given up 14 scores to receivers thus far, including three last week, so the 25-year-old should be able to get back on track Monday night. Consider Wallace a low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 15.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace had a nice looking catch-and-run to start the fourth quarter and at first look it seemed like he scored a touchdown. But after further review he was called down at the 2-yard line. Wallace was targeted five times, catching four passes for 57 yards. He also had one carry for 21 yards. Pittsburgh would go on to beat Cleveland, 14-3. His performance on Thursday might not have been the best on his team, but Wallace surpassed 1,000 yards receiving for a second straight season. He joins Roy Jefferson, Hines Ward and Plaxico Burress as Steel City receivers who have accomplished that feat.
Analysis: Wallace failed to score a touchdown for Fantasy owners but still had a halfway decent game. Pittsburgh travels to San Francisco in Week 15, a team that entered Thursday allowing 231.6 passing yards per contest. They've also given up 15 touchdowns through the air in 12 games. As long as Ben Roethlisberger is healthy for that contest, Wallace should be viewed as a solid WR option for Week 15.
News: Steelers receiver Mike Wallace plays at home against Cleveland Week 14. Wallace has an excellent recent history against the Browns. In two games last season, Wallace caught six passes for 195 yards and two touchdowns. He went for 90 yards at home and 105 yards in Cleveland with a touchdown at each venue. That said, the Browns have allowed the fewest Fantasy points per game of any team in the NFL to opposing wide receivers on the year. Just last week, Baltimore's Anquan Boldin and Torrey Smith were held to three catches for 64 yards.
Analysis: Wallace has a tough matchup upcoming against the Browns. Cleveland really isn't great against the pass, however, teams routinely attempt to beat them on the ground and succeed in doing so. Baltimore beat Cleveland on the back of Ray Rice last week and Pittsburgh is liable to attempt the same. That said, Wallace caught three passes for 38 yards and two touchdowns last week against Cincinnati as Ben Roethlisberger routinely targets him in the end zone. Wallace has eight touchdowns on the season and remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 14.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace broke a four-game skid by catching two touchdown passes vs. the Bengals in Week 13. His first was a 12-yard catch in the right corner of the end zone, his second came on a screen pass where he weaved his way through Bengals defenders 19 yards for paydirt. Wallace caught only one other pass for 7 yards. He has eight touchdowns through 12 games.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should be delighted with Wallace's numbers as it represents one of his most productive days on the year. He could be in for another great game vs. the Browns on Thursday as Cleveland comes to the Steel City. He scored in both meetings last year against the Brownies with at least 90 yards in each game. He's a must-start for Week 14.
News: Fantasy owners cannot be happy with the production they've received from Mike Wallace over his last four games. Against the Patriots, Ravens, Bengals and Chiefs he's totaled 19 catches (29 targets) for 199 yards with one touchdown and no 100-yard games. He'll take on the Bengals again at home in Week 13 with plenty of optimism to turn his game around. He's caught at least five passes in all but one career game against Cincinnati with two 100-yard games and one touchdown. He's also been playing well at Heinz Field, where he's scored in all but one home game this season. The Bengals' pass defense has also begun to slide as they've allowed seven touchdowns to wide receivers over their last four games. Wallace caught six passes for 54 yards and no score at Cincy in Week 10.
Analysis: Sitting Wallace is a risky proposition because of his potential to have a big game. He hasn't had one recently, and to some degree the rise of Antonio Brown has cost Wallace some opportunities (Brown has more targets on the season), but the Bengals' pass defense woes could open the door for him to land some big stats. Unless you're loaded at receiver and can afford to leave him on your bench, you're probably safest starting him and hoping for him to find the end zone again. Figure him to be no better than a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR with the obvious potential to play like a No. 1.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace endured his worst game of the season in Week 12 against the Chiefs. He went without a catch in the first half and finished with just two grabs for 17 yards in the 13-9 win. He had a long reception of 9 and averaged 8.5 yards per catch. Wallace was targeted six times by QB Ben Roethlisberger in the contest.
Analysis: Wallace's receiving yards have gone down in each of the last four games and they hit rock bottom on Sunday night. After posting 100-yard performances four times through the first seven games, he has been unable to get over that mark since and has been held out of the end zone his last two times out. Roethlisberger's injury could be hindering his ability to get the ball to the 25-year-old so keep an eye on the situation going forward. But since he is always a threat to go off, continue to view Wallace as a solid Fantasy WR in all leagues heading into Week 13 against the Bengals. When he faced the division foe earlier in the year, he caught six passes for 54 yards and also had two carries for 31 yards.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace enters Week 12 against the Chiefs needing 78 yards receiving to reach 1,000 for the second straight season. Kansas City ranks 14th in the league in pass defense, giving up nearly 230 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 19 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: After recording four 100-yard performances over the first seven games, Wallace has not posted one since but has still been able to come up with some big grabs. He is averaging 17.4 yards per reception and already has six touchdowns on the year. He remains the No. 1 option in the passing game for the Steelers and should continue to see his looks on a weekly basis. While the Chiefs have been tough against the pass in recent weeks, consider Wallace as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace led his team in targets and receptions in a 24-17 win over the Bengals in Week 10. Wallace lacked a big play, with a 16-yard run being his longest play of the game, but he still managed to gain 85 all-purpose yards on the afternoon. He was targeted 10 times, catching six passes for 54 yards, and he also gained 31 yards on a pair of carries.
Analysis: Wallace helped the Steelers to grind out steady yardage all afternoon, and he continues to be a good bet for production in all Fantasy formats. He enters his bye week having scored a touchdown six out of ten games, and he could be a threat to score again in Week 12 against the Chiefs. Be sure to find a replacement for Wallace next week, but once the Steelers return from their bye, owners can continue to treat Wallace as a No. 1 Fantasy WR.
News: After beginning the season with three consecutive 100-yard outings, Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace has been held in check by opposing defenses recently. Wallace has topped 100 yards just once in his past six games as the Steelers have also spread the ball around to different receivers in their developing passing game. Despite the drop in yards, Wallace has managed four touchdowns in that six-game span and has six overall.
Analysis: Wallace earns a solid opportunity to return to the 100-yard mark in Week 10 when Pittsburgh faces the Bengals The third-year wideout has done most of his damage in his career at Cincinnati and has tallied 100-plus receiving yards in each of his two games on the road against the Bengals (102, 110 yards). Wallace also has one touchdown versus Cincinnati, which is permitting an average of 17.2 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers this year. Consider Wallace a No. 1 Fantasy WR for the Week 10 matchup.
News: After having his three-game touchdown streak snapped his last time out, Steelers WR Mike Wallace started a new one in Week 9 against the Ravens. He caught a 25-yard scoring strike from QB Ben Roethlisberger in the fourth quarter and finished with four catches for 68 yards in the 23-20 loss. He has targeted five times in the contest and averaged 17 yards per reception. Wallace now has six touchdowns on the year.
Analysis: Wallace has yet to lay a dud for Fantasy owners so far this season and he did not disappoint on Sunday night. He now has 47 catches for 867 yards on the year, and is on pace for a career campaign. The Steelers love to look to him deep at least a couple times per contest and since he is the No. 1 option in the passing game for Pittsburgh, he should continue to get his stats. Heading into Week 10 against the Bengals, continue to roll with Wallace as a No. 1 Fantasy WR.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace had a successful outing when he faced his Week 9 opponent earlier in the year. Against Baltimore in the season opener, he caught eight passes for 107 yards. The Ravens enter Sunday ranked third in the league against the pass, giving up under 175 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 19.3 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Wallace has posted over 100 yards receiving in all but three games so far this season with five touchdown grabs. He was able to find some space in the secondary when he faced Baltimore earlier in the year and should be able to again with the way QB Ben Roethlisberger has been slinging the ball of late. Wallace has been one of the better options in Fantasy this season so continue to roll with him as a No. 1 WR for Week 9.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace didn't score a touchdown in Week 8 against the Patriots and his longest pass went for just 16 yards. That ends his streak of six games with a catch of at least 40 yards. He did display great hands though as he caught all seven passes thrown his way, totaling 70 yards. Pittsburgh would win the game, 25-17, over New England.
Analysis: Despite not scoring on Sunday, Wallace still had a nice outing for Fantasy owners. Obviously a touchdown would have been better, but lets not get too greedy. He has caught a touchdown in five of his last seven games. Pittsburgh hosts Baltimore in Week 9, a team that has given up just five passing touchdowns on the year. Still, Wallace is too good not to start, which is why Fantasy owners should view him as a must-start WR option for next week.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace enters Week 8 on a nice streak. He has six consecutive games with a catch that has covered at least 40 yards. Pittsburgh hosts New England, a team that allows 322.2 passing yards per contest this season, which is worst in the NFL. In his only meeting versus the Patriots, Wallace tied a career-best with two touchdowns. New England is allowing 28 Fantasy points per contest to opposing team's receivers this season.
Analysis: Wallace has a touchdown in five of his last six contests for the Steelers, and will be aiming to keep this trend going as well. With Wallace and Big Ben on the same page this season, Fantasy owners have to be thrilled. Keep him in all lineups heading into Week 8 as Wallace is a must-start No. 1 WR option.
News: Pittsburgh receiver Mike Wallace didn't have a whole bunch of catches in the Week 7 win at Arizona. He made the catches he did have count, however. Wallace recorded a 95-yard touchdown reception from QB Ben Roethlisberger in the second quarter. Wallace now has six consecutive games with a catch that has covered at least 40 yards. That is the longest such streak in the NFL since Isaac Bruce did it in 2000. Wallace only finished with three catches, but had 118 yards in the game.
Analysis: Wallace had that huge 95-yard TD reception just before halftime and was otherwise limited on Sunday in Arizona. That said, Wallace scored for the third straight game and now has a touchdown in five of his last six contests for the Steelers. Wallace continues to be one of the best Fantasy receivers in the NFL and should remain a must-start No. 1 Fantasy receiver heading into Week 8 against New England. Plus, the Patriots are allowing the third-most Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers heading into the Week 8 game. Wallace is definitely in line for a big game in Week 8.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace (hamstring), who was able to practice during the week leading up to Sunday, was active for the Week 7 game in Arizona. Wallace will be facing a defense allowing the 12th-most Fantasy points per game to receivers. In Week 4, Giants WR Hakeem Nicks went for 162 yards and a TD against the Cardinals.
Analysis: Head coach Mike Tomlin indicated this week that Wallace has a "slight" hamstring pull, but he always expected him to play against Arizona. It's just that we know hamstring injuries can linger, so hopefully playing won't cause any further damage. Wallace remains a must-start Fantasy option as he looks to score a touchdown in his third straight game. In fact, Wallace has registered four touchdowns in his last five contests for the Steelers.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace (hamstring) was on the practice field Friday for a second straight day and is considered probable for Week 7 at Arizona. Wallace will be facing a defense allowing the 12th-most Fantasy points per game to receivers. In Week 4, Giants WR Hakeem Nicks went for 162 yards and a TD against the Cardinals.
Analysis: Head coach Mike Tomlin indicated this week that Wallace has a "slight" hamstring pull, but he always expected him to play against Arizona. It's just that we know hamstring injuries can linger, so hopefully playing won't cause any further damage. When active, Wallace remains a must-start Fantasy option as he looks to score a touchdown in his third straight game. In fact, Wallace has registered four touchdowns in his last five contests for the Steelers.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace (hamstring) was once again limited in practice on Thursday. He is expected to play in Week 7 in Arizona, however. Head coach Mike Tomlin revealed on Tuesday that Wallace is dealing with a "slight" hamstring pull. Wallace will be facing a defense allowing the 12th-most Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers on the year. In Week 4, Hakeem Nicks of the Giants went for 162 yards and a TD against the Cardinals.
Analysis: As we have seen throughout the league this season, hamstring injuries can be tricky. Tomlin termed the injury as a "slight pull" on Tuesday and indicated that Wallace should be able to play against the Cardinals. However, Fantasy owners should be looking to keep a close eye on his progress this week. The fact he returned to some sort of practice on Thursday is a good sign. When healthy, he remains a must-start in just about any format as he looks to score a touchdown in his third straight game. In fact, Wallace has registered four touchdowns in his last five contests for the Steelers.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace (hamstring) did not practice on Wednesday. Head coach Mike Tomlin revealed on Tuesday that Wallace is dealing with a "slight" hamstring pull. He indicated that it was an injury that could limit him during the week in practice, though he's expected to play. Wallace will be facing a defense allowing the 12th-most Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers on the year. In Week 4, Hakeem Nicks of the Giants went for 162 yards and a TD against the Cardinals.
Analysis: As we have seen throughout the league this season, hamstring injuries can be tricky. Tomlin termed the injury as a "slight pull" on Tuesday and indicated that Wallace should be able to play against the Cardinals. However, Fantasy owners should be looking to keep a close eye on his progress this week. If he doesn't return to some sort of practice by Friday, it could be a bad sign for Sunday. When healthy, he remains a must-start in just about any format as he looks to score a touchdown in his third straight game. In fact, Wallace has registered four touchdowns in his last five contests for the Steelers.
News: Steelers coach Mike Tomlin revealed on Tuesday that WR Mike Wallace has a slight hamstring injury that could limit him during practice. He is expected to play in Week 7 at Arizona barring any setbacks, however. Wallace will be facing a defense allowing the 12th-most Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers on the year. In Week 4, Hakeem Nicks of the Giants went for 162 yards and a TD against the Cardinals.
Analysis: For the moment, there is nothing to be overly concerned about if you own Wallace. However, hamstring injuries can be tricky. Tomlin termed the injury as a "slight pull" and while Wallace could miss a practice or two this week, he should play against the Cardinals and remains a must-start in just about any format as he looks to score a touchdown in his third straight game. In fact, Wallace has registered four touchdowns in his last five contests for the Steelers. If his status changes, we'll be sure to let you know. Otherwise, Wallace is an easy choice as a No. 1 Fantasy WR.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace hauled in two receptions for a game-high 76 yards and a touchdown during the Steelers' 17-13 win over Jacksonville in Week 6 on Sunday. Wallace connected with QB Ben Roethlisberger on a 28-yard strike early in the second quarter to give Pittsburgh a 14-0 lead. It was the second consecutive game Wallace has reached the end zone. Wallace also tied for the team lead in targets from Roethlisberger (six).
Analysis: Despite finishing with a season low in catches, Wallace remains the Steelers' top option downfield as he brought in a 48-yard pass during the second quarter. The reception marked the fifth straight game he has posted a catch of 40-plus yards this season as he remains among the league leaders in receiving yards (609). Consider Wallace a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 7 at Arizona as Roethlisberger continues to heal a foot injury.
News: Pittsburgh receiver Mike Wallace has recorded 10 receptions for 159 yards and a touchdown in his last two games. That is decent production, but those were his only two games of the season with fewer than 100 yards receiving. Wallace went for 107, 126 and 144 yards, respectively, in each of the first three games with two touchdowns over that span. Heading into Week 6 against Jacksonville, Wallace is looking for his fifth straight game with a catch of least 40 yards. Wallace has never before faced the Jaguars.
Analysis: Wallace has a tough test in Week 6 as the Jaguars are allowing the fifth-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts. Only Kenny Britt in Week 1 managed to top 100 yards receiving against the Jaguars this year. That said, rookie A.J. Green of the Bengals racked up 90 yards and a TD in Week 5 versus Jacksonville, so that secondary might be cracking a bit. Regardless, Wallace is too good not to be starting each and every week as a No. 1 Fantasy receiver. Treat him as such for the Week 6 game against the Jaguars.
News: With QB Ben Roethlisberger nursing a foot injury and relying on short, underneath routes, Steelers WR Mike Wallace wasn't a big factor for much of Week 5 against the Titans. Instead, Hines Ward got most of Roethlisberger's looks. But that all changed late in the fourth quarter when, with the Steelers already leading by 14 points, Roethlisberger attempted his first pass of more than 15 yards on the day and connected with Wallace on a 40-yard score. Wallace finished with six catches for 82 yards.
Analysis: Thanks to the late touchdown, Wallace's Week 5 was business as usual for his Fantasy owners. In fact, you could say he bounced back from a four-catch, 77-yard performance in Week 4, which is his worst output of the season to date. Even though his absence from the team's passing attack was noticeable at times in Week 5, he still finished with a respectable seven targets, which shows just how far he has come from 2009, when he was strictly a deep-ball threat. Wallace surely has even bigger performances in his future when Roethlisberger gets healthy. You should continue to treat him as a No. 1 Fantasy WR when the Steelers host the Jaguars in Week 6.
News: After finishing with his lowest receiving output of the season last Sunday, Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace will look to rebound at home in Week 5 against Tennessee. Wallace was limited to just four receptions for 77 yards in a loss at Houston -- his first game under 100 yards this season. He is averaging a sterling 113.5 receiving yards per game and is aiming to extend his streak of outings with 100-plus yards at home to four games.
Analysis: Wallace is ranked third in the NFL with his impressive total of 454 receiving yards, but draws a tough matchup this Sunday against a rugged Titans secondary. Tennessee has not allowed an opposing receiver to top 60 yards in a game this season and has surrendered just one receiving touchdown. Still, Wallace has registered a touchdown in two of his last three games and should be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace had his worst game of the season Sunday at Houston. Wallace was held to four catches for 77 yards. It was his lowest catch and yardage total of the season through four games. Wallace only had four targets.
Analysis: It shows how good Wallace has become that four catches for 77 yards is his worst game. We expect Wallace to continue to play at a high level, and he remains a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into Week against the Titans. Keep him active in all leagues.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace, who was limited in practice on Wednesday because of a rib injury, is active for Week 4 at Houston. He was listed as probable for the game.
Analysis: Wallace has gone for more than 100 yards in every game so far, so you should feel good about starting him as a No. 1 Fantasy option this week, especially since the Steelers could end up getting in a shootout with the high-scoring Texans.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace heads into Week 4 at Houston playing at a high level. Wallace has three games in a row with at least five catches for 107 yards, and he's scored a touchdown in each of his past two games. The Texans have allowed four touchdowns to opposing wide receivers in three games, and four receivers have reached double digits in Fantasy points. Wallace, who has never faced the Texans in his career, is listed as probable and is expected to be at 100 percent after dealing with an injury to his ribs during the week.
Analysis: Wallace is proving to be a No. 1 Fantasy WR, and he should continue to play at a high level against the Texans. Since Wallace is fine with his ribs injury, keep him active in all leagues and expect another outstanding game.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace (ribs) was able to practice fully on Thursday after being limited on Wednesday as anticipated. On Tuesday, coach Mike Tomlin indicated Wallace would play in Week 4 at Houston despite the injury.
Analysis: Wallace's injury is said to be a rib cartilage injury. He extended his streak of 100-yard performances to six straight games in Week 3 against the Colts. He caught five passes for 144 yards with a touchdown in the 23-20 win. He is off to a phenomenal start this season and remains one of the elite options at his position in Fantasy. Monitor his status closely this week, but Fantasy owners should be able to rely on his services once again, barring any setbacks.
News: Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said on Tuesday that WR Mike Wallace could be limited in practice this week due to a rib cartilage injury. However, Tomlin added that "it shouldn't prohibit him from playing" in Week 4 at Houston.
Analysis: Wallace extended his streak of 100-yard performances to six straight games in Week 3 against the Colts. He caught five passes for 144 yards with a touchdown in the 23-20 win. He is off to a phenomenal start this season and remains one of the elite options at his position in Fantasy. Monitor his status closely this week, but Fantasy owners should be able to rely on his services once again, barring any setbacks.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace extended his streak of 100-yard performances to six straight games in Week 3 against the Colts. He caught five passes for 144 yards with a touchdown in the 23-20 win. Wallace and QB Ben Roethlisberger hooked up on an 81-yard scoring strike in the first quarter for his second touchdown of the year. Wallace was targeted seven times in the victory and averaged 28.8 yards per reception.
Analysis: Wallace continues to be the big-play threat in the passing game for the Steelers and has the speed to break one at any point. He now has 377 yards receiving through the first three games and should eclipse the 1,000-yard mark for the second consecutive year. He will be facing off against the Texans in Week 4. Houston gave up 354 passing and three touchdowns to New Orleans in Week 3 so consider Wallace as no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy WR next Sunday.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace will be looking for his sixth straight game with at least 100 yards receiving in Week 3 against the Colts. Indianapolis enters Sunday ranked 10th in the league against the pass, giving up 207 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 16 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Wallace has become the go-to guy for QB Ben Roethlisberger in Pittsburgh and is riding an impressive streak with five straight 100-yard games. He already has 233 yards receiving this season with four catches of 20-plus yards. While the Colts have been tough against the pass thus far, the Steelers should be able to run the ball with ease against their defense, setting up some big plays downfield for Wallace. Consider Wallace a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 3.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace continues to play well to start the 2011 season. In Week 2 against the Seahawks, Wallace had eight catches for 126 yards and a touchdown on nine targets. The highlight of his day came on a 53-yard catch that he pulled in using the tip of his fingers. His touchdown came in the third quarter from 2 yards out.
Analysis: Wallace now has 16 catches for 233 yards and a touchdown to start the season, and he should be considered a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues. Consider Wallace a No. 1 Fantasy WR in Week 3 against the Colts.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace heads into Week 2 against Seattle looking to continue his stellar play at home. In his past five home games, Wallace has 27 catches for 536 yards and four touchdowns and three carries for 39 yards. He has at least eight Fantasy points in each of those games and has not had fewer than 90 total yards in each outing. In Week 1 at Baltimore, Wallace had eight catches for 107 yards on 11 targets.
Analysis: Wallace is a must-start Fantasy WR, and he should continue his stellar play at home. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace had a big day on Sunday of Week 1 in Baltimore, even if the rest of his teammates struggled. In fact, QB Ben Roethlisberger threw three interceptions and the Steelers lost to the Ravens 35-7. Still, Wallace got his as he finished with a game-high eight grabs for a game-high 107 yards. Wallace was targeted 11 times by Roethlisberger, also to lead all players in the game. He did not score, however.
Analysis: The Steelers left no doubt as to who the go-to receiver in the passing game for Roethlisberger is on Sunday of Week 1. Wallace will continue to see the most targets and looks heading into Week 2 at home against Seattle. The Steelers are going to be hard-pressed to have a better effort in Week 2, seeing as they were embarrassed against a rival in Week 1 in the Ravens. Seattle may have to pay the price against Pittsburgh. Wallace could be in for a huge game in Week 2 and should be looked as a viable Fantasy start and top option across the board.
News: The Carroll County Times reports that Steelers WR Mike Wallace made it abundantly clear that he'll be targeting first-round rookie cornerback Jimmy Smith. "He needs to worry about us," Wallace said. "He just needs to be ready, because we're going to be coming at him. Man, we can take our shots deep on anybody. We don't discriminate." The Ravens plan to start two new cornerbacks in Smith and Cary Williams, a former practice squad player.
Analysis: We would likely start Wallace in most leagues anyway, but the Ravens defense could be in trouble with inexperienced corners. Consider Wallace a No. 1 Fantasy WR in all leagues for Week 1 against the Ravens.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace played despite a minor leg issue in Friday's preseason opener against the Redskins. He looked as healthy as can be, running his usual screens as well as signature go-routes while in the game for a short period of time. Wallace hauled in one pass for 3 yards in the loss.
Analysis: Wallace's injury was not deemed to be very serious, and the notion was proven Friday. He blew by cornerback Josh Wilson in the first series of the game only to be overthrown while wide-open. We weren't worried about Wallace's injury, so neither should you. He should be fine going forward, and he still consider him to be a top-notch WR in all Fantasy formats in 2011. Plan on drafting him as early as Round 3 in the majority of leagues.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace sat out two days earlier this week due to a leg issue, but he fully expects to play Friday at Washington in the preseason opener. Wallace said this week’s absences due to a muscle strain were the only two practice days he missed since joining the Steelers in 2009. “Ben [Roethlisberger] said, ‘You better get back out there on the field,” Wallace said of the teasing QB.
Analysis: We're glad Wallace is ready to go, and it's a good thing Big Ben is teasing him because he needs Wallace as much as Fantasy owners do. As long as Wallace is 100 percent healthy he should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR on Draft Day. Plan on drafting him as early as Round 3 in the majority of leagues.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace did not practice Tuesday due to what coach Mike Tomlin said was a tight groin. "We wanted to exercise a little precaution and stay ahead of a fatigue curve with him, so we gave him a day," Tomlin said. Wallace himself downplayed not practicing. "Just a day off," he said.
Analysis: This is the time of year where little bumps and bruises will land a player on the sidelines. If it were the regular season, then Wallace has a good chance of playing. Wallace has his eyes set on 2,000 receiving yards in 2011. That's a very lofty goal, but even if he doesn't get it, Wallace is still going to be a great receiving option in Pittsburgh. He is a No. 1 Fantasy WR worth drafting in the early rounds of all formats.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that Steelers WR Mike Wallace said Thursday he has lofty goals for 2011. Wallace said he is shooting for a 2,000-yard season. "If I catch 100 balls I can do it," Wallace said. In 2010, Wallace caught 60 passes for 1,257 yards with 10 touchdowns during the regular season, and he tacked on another 13 grabs for 115 yards and a touchdown over three postseason games.
Analysis: He has a long way to go for 2,000 yards, but we like the optimism. Wallace projects as a No. 1 Fantasy WR coming into the season, and he's worth drafting as early as Round 3 in all leagues. He might not get 2,000 yards, but he does have the potential for 1,500 yards and double digits in touchdowns.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace hauled in nine passes for 89 yards and a touchdown in the Steelers' 31-25 loss to Green Bay in Super Bowl XLV on Sunday night. Wallace scored on a 25-yard strike from QB Ben Roethlisberger midway through the fourth quarter to help pull Pittsburgh within three points of the lead. Wallace finished with a game-high 16 targets from Roethlisberger. He totaled 13 receptions for 115 yards in the first postseason of his career.
Analysis: Wallace turned in a strong performance, albeit a quiet one, as he took advantage of injuries to the Packers' secondary, including CB Charles Rodgers. On his touchdown-scoring drive, he caught four passes from Roethlisberger, including three for over 10 yards. However, two of Roethlisberger's passed intended for Wallace were intercepted by Green Bay and led to touchdowns. He displayed remarkable athleticism throughout the season and could become the team's top receiving threat if WR Hines Ward retires in the offseason. Fantasy owners should view him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR with the possibility of playing like a top wideout in 2011.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace recorded just one reception for six yards in the Steelers' 24-19 victory over the Jets in the AFC Championship game on Sunday. He was targeted three times by QB Ben Roethlisberger but the two could not connect on any deep routes against an imposing New York secondary. Wallace also failed to reach the end zone for the second playoff game after scoring in his last two contests of the regular season.
Analysis: Wallace's yardage total was easily his lowest output of the season and the first time he has finished with just one catch. The speedy wideout remains Pittsburgh's premier deep threat but Roethlisberger rarely looked deep as he completed only 10 of his 19 passes Sunday. Wallace remains a highly-targeted receiver and should be viewed as a solid option in Fantasy playoff leagues. Fantasy owners should also eye him as No. 2 Fantasy WR in 2011 drafts.
News: After hauling in a 20-yard pass from QB Ben Roethlisberger early in the first quarter, Steelers WR Mike Wallace would only add to his catch total against the Ravens in Saturday's Divisional Playoff game. He did not add to his yardage despite hauling in two additional passes on the afternoon. The Steelers tried to utilize his speed in space, setting up screens for Wallace, but they netted 0 yards. Wallace even took two handoffs from Roethlisberger , but managed minus-2 yards combined.
Analysis: Wallace could not get going as a receiver or runner on Saturday, but he'll have a chance to get involved in the AFC title game next week. Even with the lack of production, it's nice to see the Steelers trying multiple ways to get their most explosive player the ball. Roethlisberger even targeted him a team-high (tied) seven times. Still, Wallace is among the most dangerous players in the NFL, which makes him a solid play in Fantasy Playoff Challenges and again heading into 2011. But he still has some games like Saturday sprinkled in between 100-yard efforts, so well call him a No. 2 WR on Draftv Day.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace made it three straight 100-yard games Sunday when he went for 105 yards and a touchdown on three catches. He was targeted five times.
Analysis: Wallace got off to a super start on Sunday when he hauled in a 56-yard touchdown only 43 seconds into the game. He continued his trend of catching three passes or less, but Wallace's role is to test defenses deep, and if they cover him, then QB Ben Roethlisberger just doesn't throw Wallace's way. But with Wallace's speed, he gets open on occasion, and will head into 2011 as a No. 2 Fantasy WR with the potential to be more.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace will take on the Browns in Week 17 and will be looking for his third straight 100-yard receiving game. Wallace caught three passes for 90 yards and a touchdown earlier this season against Cleveland and will be facing the NFL's 14th-ranked pass defense on Sunday, but one that has allowed 16 touchdowns to wide receivers.
Analysis: Wallace has only two games with more than five catches this season, but as Pittsburgh's deep threat he always has a chance to break into triple digits. Unfortunately, Cleveland hasn't allowed a 100-yard receiver since Week 7 (Marques Colston), and Wallace could see plenty of attention from ball-hawking rookie Joe Haden. Still, because of his home run potential, Wallace remains worth using in all Fantasy formats as a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Not only did he go over 100 yards receiving for the second straight game in the Week 16 win over the Panthers, but Steelers WR Mike Wallace snapped a four game drought in the process. He went the last four games without a score, but the speedy WR was able to find the end zone on what has become the latest of his signature big-play touchdowns. In the second quarter, the DB in front of Wallace blitzed and QB Ben Roethlisberger got the ball there immediately on a hot-read, which enabled Wallace to out-run the defense for a 43-yard score. He finished the night with four catches for 104 yards on six targets from Roethlisberger, including another one in the end zone that sailed high.
Analysis: Wallace had three catches for 98 yards in the first half, but owners should not worry about his pedestrian one catch for 6 yards in the second half. The Steelers were up 20 points after two quarters and they maintained the gap throughout the night while focusing on the running game. Wallace was able to get behind the defense seemingly at will, but nearly everything else Pittsburgh tried to do Thursday night also clicked against the NFL's worst team. The second-year WR out of Ole Miss also benefited from Chris Gamble -- the Panthers best DB -- being out of the lineup with an ankle issue. In Week 17, Wallace looks for his third straight 100-yard effort. The Steelers take on the Browns, who allowed Wallace to gash them for 90 yards and a TD on just three catches when the teams met earlier this season. Heading into that matchup, consider him to be a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace continues to impress in his second season. He had seven catches for 102 yards against the Jets last week and crossed the 1,000-receiving threshold for the first time. He has 1,048 yards with two games left. Wallace will try to expand on those numbers in Week 16 against the Panthers. Carolina surprisingly ranks in the top-10 in pass defense. They did not allow a WR to do what Wallace did last week -- break 100 yards -- until Week 15, when WR Larry Fitzgerald did it.
Analysis: Carolina has been stingy against the pass mainly because they get gashed on the ground, and sport the worst offense in the NFL. That translates to large deficits, and teams typically run the ball when ahead so don't be fooled by that ranking. Wallace will have his chances on Thursday night, especially with Panthers top cover guy Chris Gamble (ankle) out of the lineup. Wallace is having a career-year, but he has not found the end zone in the last four games after putting up four scores in the three previous weeks. We can see that mini-slump ending in Week 16, so utilize the speedster as a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace continues to impress in his second season. He had seven catches for 102 yards against the Jets last week and crossed the 1,000-receiving threshold for the first time. He has 1,048 yards with two games left. Wallace will try to expand on those numbers in Week 16 against the Panthers. Carolina surprisingly ranks in the top-10 in pass defense. They did not allow a WR to do what Wallace did last week -- break 100 yards -- until Week 15, when WR Larry Fitzgerald did it.
Analysis: Carolina has been stingy against the pass mainly because they get gashed on the ground, and sport the worst offense in the NFL. That translates to large deficits, and teams typically run the ball when ahead so don't be fooled by that ranking. Wallace will have his chances on Thursday night, especially if Panthers top cover guy Chris Gamble -- listed as doubtful with an ankle issue -- is out of the lineup. Wallace is having a career-year, but he has not found the end zone in the last four games after putting up four scores in the three previous weeks. We can see that mini-slump ending in Week 16, so utilize the speedster as a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace hasn't scored in four games now, but did have his best outing on Sunday against the Jets. He surpassed 100 yards receiving for the first time in four games. He was targeted 10 times, catching seven passes for 102 yards. He almost had a touchdown on the day, but was overthrown by Ben Roethlisberger on a fake spike play. Wallace also had 8 yards on the ground on an end-around in the first half. Pittsburgh drove down the field with less than two minutes left in the game, but have their rally fall short. The Steelers would lose to the Jets, 22-17.
Analysis: Wallace had 187 receiving yards over his last three games, so Fantasy owners have to be happy with his performance on Sunday. He had to deal with Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie in Week 15 but was able to make some space and thus make some plays. The Steelers tried to spread the field out with Wallace against the Jets secondary and it worked. Looking ahead to Week 16 the Steelers have the Panthers on Thursday night. Carolina is tough against the pass, allowing just 205 passing yards per contest. Fantasy owners should view Wallace as a No. 2 WR option for now.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace hasn't scored over the last three weeks and has just 187 receiving yards over that span. That comes out to a 14.4 yard average per catch (13 catches). Entering Week 15 against the Jets, Wallace leads the AFC and is second in the NFL with a 20.6 yards per catch average. He has a chance to become only the second receiver in NFL history to lead the league in average per catch in his first two years. New York has been allowing 203.9 passing yards per contest this season. Wallace will have to deal with DB Darrelle Revis on Sunday, so it won't be easy for him to have a big game. "I don't care. I don't care about nobody," Wallace said. "He's just another guy. He's a real good player, but I'm a real good player myself."
Analysis: Wallace may not be afraid of playing against Revis, but it's going to be a tough matchup for him. Both team's have good defenses, so it will be a battle of field position. That means establishing the run and connecting on short passes. If Pittsburgh can get things going early, Wallace's speed could play a big factor. New York is beat up in the secondary -- mainly at the safety position -- so if Wallace can find himself with a favorable matchup he could produce in Week 15. For now, consider Wallace a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR option. The Jets have been allowing 20.62 Fantasy points to opposing team's receivers this year.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace, who went for 110 yards and a touchdown against the Bengals earlier this season, couldn't match those totals in Week 14 vs. Cincinnati, but he did catch five balls for 78 yards and ran once for 12 yards.
Analysis: Wallace's five grabs match his second-highest total of the season, but he's now gone three straight games without a score for the first time this season. He was targeted a whopping nine times on Sunday, and showed up nicely in the fourth quarter with 36 of his 78 receiving yards in the final 15 minutes. Wallace continues to be the deep threat for the Steelers and will remain worth using in almost all Fantasy formats heading into Week 15 vs. the Jets.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace had 110 yards and a touchdown earlier this season against the Bengals and will try to at least match those solid numbers when the two teams meet in Week 14. Cincinnati ranks 15th against the pass this season and has allowed opposing Fantasy WR corps to average 23.3 points, the eighth most in the league.
Analysis: After catching six touchdowns in a six-game span, Wallace has calmed down a little over the last couple of weeks with no scores and just an average of 54.5 yards a game. He should be able to put up solid numbers on Sunday though against a Bengals secondary that has given up 100-yard games to Robert Meachem and Steve Johnson in the last three weeks. Think of Wallace as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 14.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace was again not able to get down the field against the Ravens in Week 13, but the team found different ways to get him the ball. He ended up with a productive 76 yards on five catches. With QB Ben Roethlisberger hobbled for most of the first half, Wallace managed to catch just one pass for 18 yards on the sideline. Baltimore's defense constantly had him bracketed to prevent him from beating their DBs over-the-top. In the second half, Pittsburgh decided to get him the ball short, and allow his speed to create big plays. Wallace got his hands on couple of quick-hitters in the third quarter and began to loosen up the defense with big gains after the catch. He nearly scored on one in the fourth quarter, but was swarmed by four Ravens as soon as he approached the goal-line. Wallace was targeted a team-high seven times by Roethlisberger.
Analysis: Wallace is one of the NFL's fastest WRs and teams are not allowing him to gash them deep anymore, so the alternative route the Steelers took on Sunday night is a promising one. Still, he is an electric player when he gets behind the defense and it seems like those enormous touchdowns Fantasy owners enjoyed early in the year are gone. Wallace will have to become more of a complete WR heading into the stretch run of the season if he wants to continue to impact games. He'll get another shot to prove his maturation in Week 14 against the Bengals, a team that has allowed an opposing WR to gash them for more than 100 yards in two of their last three games. Wallace should be viewed as a solid No. 2 Fantasy W heading into that matchup.
News: Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger is active for the Week 13 game despite a foot injury, so WR Mike Wallace will have a normal role in the offense.
Analysis: Early in the season, when Roethlisberger was not in the lineup, Wallace managed to have one big game and three downers. We like Wallace to be used as a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Sunday.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace was not able to get behind the Bills defense last week for a big play, nor was he able to in the Week 4 game against the Ravens. In Week 13, the Steelers and Ravens will again meet. Wallace averages a league-leading 22.0 yards per reception, but teams are keying on his speed and preventing him from burning them deep. “His 4.2 speed is what makes him a good receiver," defensive coordinator Greg Mattison said. "When you watch him when he comes off the football, you say, ‘This guy’s a good receiver’ and all of the sudden he’s running by guys.” The Ravens limited him to just 24 yards on two receptions earlier this season.
Analysis: Wallace will look to make the big play on Sunday, but a few things may slow him down. For one, QB Ben Roethlisberger is dealing with a broken foot and he's listed as questionable for the Sunday night game. Also, Wallace and the rest of the Steelers offense will have to deal with DB Ed Reed, who was on the PUP list when the two teams met early in the year. Baltimore has allowed just four WRs to eclipse the 100-yard mark against them this season. Their defense ranks seventh against the pass, allowing just 205.6 yards per game. Still, it only takes one mistake to allow perhaps the league's fastest WR to gash a team for a game-changing TD. We like Wallace to be used as a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Sunday.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace saw his three-game 100-yard receiving game streak come to an end Sunday when he caught three passes for 33 yards in a Week 12 overtime win over the Bills.
Analysis: Wallace wasn't much of a factor on Sunday as the Steelers ran the ball early and often against the league's worst run defense and Hines Ward got most of the attention from QB Ben Roethlisberger. Wallace will have a game like this now and again when teams pay him the respect he deserves, so don't freak out just yet if you own him. Continue to start Wallace in most Fantasy formats heading into Week 13 at Baltimore, although consider that Wallace had just two catches for 24 yards against the Ravens earlier this season.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace comes into Week 12 at Buffalo seeking to pick up his fourth straight outing with over 100 yards and at least one touchdown. In his last three games, Wallace has averaged 120.7 yards receiving on 16 total catches. The Bills rank ninth against the pass this season, but that stat is a little misleading as teams run on them so much (32nd, 163.5 ypg).
Analysis: While Wallace only has two games this season with more than three catches, he's become the favorite deep target for QB Ben Roethlisberger and showed off his yards-after-catch skills on his touchdown last week against the Raiders. He should be able to contribute once again in Week 12, so start Wallace in all formats as either a low-end No. 1 or high-end No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Pittsburgh receiver Mike Wallace hauled in a big 52-yard TD reception in the fourth quarter of the Week 11 blowout win over the Raiders. Wallace caught three passes in the game and led the team with 116 yards receiving and six targets with the touchdown. Wallace averaged 38.7 yards per catch in the game and the TD was his longest reception for Pittsburgh. Wallace blew past CB Stanford Routt for the 52-yard TD reception as one of the best big-play receivers in the game. Wallace added a 19-yard carry on an double-reverse end-around play.
Analysis: Wallace has scored four touchdowns in his last three games and is averaging almost 121 yards per contest over that stretch. He's been one of the best big-play receivers in football and has been one of the receivers period in recent weeks. Wallace has scored eight touchdowns this year and is clearly a No. 1 Fantasy WR heading into Week 12 in Buffalo.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace, who has five touchdowns and is averaging 86.4 yards in five games since QB Ben Roethlisberger returned from his suspension, might need to catch a long one or two to put up similar numbers Week 11 against a Raiders defense that ranks second against the pass, allowing 184.8 yards per game. He'll likely be matched up with star cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, who is returning from an ankle injury. The Raiders allow only 16.8 Fantasy points per game to wide receivers, fourth-lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: Fortunately, Wallace has a knack for catching long ones, averaging a league-leading 21.4 yards per catch. He only needs one play to find his way to the end zone and make an impact in Fantasy, and for all the Raiders' success against the pass this year, they've allowed 16 passing touchdowns. This may not be the best matchup for Wallace, but given his recent performance and week-to-week potential, you should keep him active as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace set new career-highs in both catches and receiving yards against the Patriots in Week 10. He hauled in eight passes from QB Ben Roethlisberger for 136 yards, including two touchdowns. The first connection in the end zone between the two went for 15 yards and the second was from 33-yards out. Roethlisberger looked Wallace's way a team-high 11 times.
Analysis: Wallace found holes in the Patriots coverage with the help of Roethlisberger, who scrambled to buy extra time for his WRs to get separation. Still, most of their connections came when the game was out of reach (not that Fantasy owners mind). In Week 11, the Steelers will look to get back to their winning ways against the up-start Raiders, who sport one of the NFL's top-ranked units against the pass. Wallace should remain a high-end No. 2 Fantasy option in that matchup.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace leads the NFL with a 23-yard average per catch and has five touchdowns through eight games this season. He will look to build on those numbers against the Patriots in Week 10. They have allowed three different WRs to eclipse the 100-yard mark against them this season. New England has also given up six TDs to WRs, although none have since Week 6, when Anquan Boldin found the end zone against the Patriots.
Analysis: Wallace is coming off of his second 100-yard effort in Week 9 against the Bengals, and he could very well have a repeat effort in Week 10. The Patriots defense will have to account for a healthy Rashard Mendenhall like every other team has, which has added to Wallace's ability to draw single coverage on deep passes. We see him as a solid No. 2 WR heading into the matchup.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace was too much for the Bengals' secondary to handle in Week 9. Wallace had five receptions for 105 yards receiving on Monday night and was able to find the end zone for the fifth time this season in the 27-21 win. Wallace was on the receiving end of a 39-yard touchdown strike from Antwaan Randle El in the fourth quarter that came off a trick play. Ben Roethlisberger handed the ball off to Randel El on a end around, who then ran back across the field and was able to find Wallace in the end zone. He also had catches of 35 and 24 yards in the victory and averaged 22 yards per reception. Wallace was targeted a team-high seven times and finished with a long of 39 yards.
Analysis: Wallace only has 22 receptions on the season, but he makes them count as he has racked up 502 yards and five touchdowns so far this year. His blazing speed posses a problem for every opposing secondary he faces and his ability to find the end zone has made him an asset to Fantasy teams this season. Wallace has only gone over the century mark in receiving yards twice this season, but has scored three touchdowns over his last four games. He will face a Patriots team in Week 10 that has had problems defending the pass this season, which could translate into another big day. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy WR at New England.
News: Considering the Bengals lack of consistent pass rush, Steelers WR Mike Wallace provides an even more significant deep threat in Week 9. QB Ben Roethlisberger called Wallace's speed "ridiculous." Wallace averages 23.4 yards per reception and has a catch of 45 yards or more in four of seven games. The last time Wallace came to Cincinnati (2009) he posted seven catches for 102 yards. "He's improved the most, in my opinion," defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer said. "He's catching the ball, and they're moving him around in a lot of different places. Great speed. Catches a long touchdown every game. He's more consistent now than he was."
Analysis: Wallace caught a touchdown in each of the first two games Roethlisberger played in following his suspension. He was shut out of the end zone in Week 8 against the Saints, but New Orleans did a heck of a job shutting down the Steelers' passing game. The Bengals are holding opposing WRs to 19.1 Fantasy points per week, which is 13th lowest in the NFL. But Cincinnati has allowed receivers to rack up four touchdowns in their last three games, so its secondary is susceptible. Consider Wallace a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 9.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace led the Steelers in receiving in the Week 8 loss to the Saints. However, he failed to find the end zone for the first time in three weeks and finished with three catches for 43 yards. QB Ben Roethlisberger looked his way four times on the night. Wallace, usually a deep-threat, did not catch a pass for more than 21 yards.
Analysis: Wallace's inability to get deep could be attributed to the Saints relentless pass rush. New Orleans sacked Roethlisberger just three times, but they pressured him the entire night. Wallace has yet to catch more than three passes in a game this season. He will try to buck that trend against the Bengals in Week 9. Their defense has allowed just one WR -- Roddy White -- to eclipse the 100-yard mark against them. Wallace should be considered as a No. 2 Fantasy WR in that Monday night matchup.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace has caught a touchdown from QB Ben Roethlisberger in each of the two games they have played together since Roethlisberger's suspension ended. In Week 8, they look to connect in the end zone against the Saints, which is no easy task. They rank 3rd against the pass and have only allowed two WRs to score against them in seven games.
Analysis: Both touchdowns from Big Ben to Wallace have been for more than 50 yards, so all it takes is one step and it can be six. The Saints secondary is a tough one, but they are dealing with injuries to their two best corners, Jabari Greer (shoulder) and Tracy Porter (knee). The injuries have to slow them down just a bit, so Wallace may try to get deep early to test their speed out. We like him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR in Week 8 at New Orleans.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace caught only two passes for 53 yards in a Week 7 win at Miami, but one went for a 53-yard score as he put on the burners and torched Miami DB Jason Allen for his fourth touchdown in the last four games.
Analysis: Wallace is a pure speed merchant, and QB Ben Roethlisberger only throws the ball his way if he's open. Teams know about Wallace's skills and cover him closely, but all it takes is one play for him to get that half step like he did on Sunday and sprint away to the end zone. In Week 8 against the Saints, Wallace will remain at least a No. 2 Fantasy WR option.
News: The Steelers visit Miami in Week 7, and Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace has a tough matchup against a Dolphins defense that has only given up three scores to receivers this season and ranks ninth overall in yards allowed. Wallace has yet to get more than three catches in a game this season and has been held under 30 yards twice.
Analysis: Wallace's numbers should get a nice boost now that Ben Roethlisberger is back under center, and Wallace went for 64 yards and a touchdown in Week 17 against Miami last season. His Fantasy owners will be hoping Wallace can get deep like Greg Jennings did in Week 6, and Wallace remains a must-start Fantasy option for the time being.
News:Mike Wallace caught Ben Roethlisberger's first touchdown of the season as Pittsburgh rolled to a 28-10 win in Week 6 against the Browns. Wallace helped welcome back Roethlisberger, who finished with three touchdowns as he came off a four-game suspension. Wallace's 29-yard touchdown in the second quarter was his third of the season -- all coming in the last three games. Wallace caught three passes, but he finished with a team-high 90 yards. He was targeted six times and had a 50-yard reception.
Analysis: Wallace is going to love having Big Ben under center, especially since Santonio Holmes did so well as the Steelers' No. 2 receiver before being dealt to New York in the offseason. Wallace is the team's big play threat and could put up some favorable numbers for Fantasy owners. Consider Wallace a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 7 against the Dolphins.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace hasn't managed more than three catches in a game this season. He looks to erase that trend in Week 6 against the Browns as QB Ben Roethlisberger makes his season debut coming off a suspension. Although, Wallace didn't perform overly well against Cleveland in two games last season. He totaled just four catches for 61 yards and no touchdowns. He had just two catches in each game.
Analysis: The big difference for Wallace this season against Cleveland as opposed to last was that he no longer has to contend with Santonio Holmes for catches. Wallace is the No. 2 WR opposite Hines Ward. It's good for Wallace that Holmes totaled more than 190 receiving yards in two games against Cleveland last season. Roethlisberger tossed for more than 400 yards in the home game against Cleveland last season, with Ward and Wallace both having 100-yard games. The Browns have allowed WRs to rack up 808 yards and seven touchdowns in five games, so consider Wallace a nice No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 6.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace was held to just two catches for 24 yards in Week 4 against the Ravens. He was targeted six times by QB Charlie Batch, including several deep throws and a pair of throws into the end zone. Wallace had a near touchdown catch swiped away from him on a good defensive play by a defensive back.
Analysis: Wallace had 100 yards on just three catches in Week 3 against Tampa Bay with Batch clearly looking to him as his deep-play threat. Wallace caught two touchdown passes in that game and his Fantasy appeal gained a good deal of steam as a result. Batch tried to get him the ball in similar fashion in Week 4, but the Ravens did a better job than the Bucs which was to be expected. In Week 5, the Steelers will be on a bye. But in Week 6, Wallace's Fantasy appeal should see a boost because QB Ben Roethlisberger will be eligible to return from his suspension. That should open up Pittsburgh's passing game quite a bit and Wallace should be considered a receiver whose Fantasy appeal will continue to rise as a result. For now, he remains more of a No. 4 WR. That could change.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace will face a tough task in Week 4 against a Ravens defense that ranks first in the NFL against the pass. They have allowed an average of just 116.7 passing yards per game and only one passing touchdown in the first three weeks of the season. They've also allowed the fewest Fantasy points in standard formats to opposing wide receivers to date.
Analysis: Wallace burst onto the Fantasy scene in Week 3 with a 100-yard, 2-TD performance against the Buccaneers. He did most of his damage on a couple of very deep throws and caught just three passes in the game. We do anticipate a bright future for the young receiver, but you'll have to take into account this tough matchup and the fact that he'll have to make the most of a limited passing game with Charlie Batch at the helm until Ben Roethlisberger can return from his suspension following a Week 5 bye. Sure, Wallace made the most of things in Week 3 with some long connections with Batch, but the Ravens pose a much stiffer test. Consider Wallace more of a No. 3 WR or flex option this week, but we recommend going with alternatives where possible.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace had his breakout performance of the 2010 season in Week 3 against the Bucs. Playing his first full game with QB Charlie Batch, Wallace stretched the field against Tampa Bay and ended up with two touchdowns. The first was a 46-yarder, which he shook off a defender to pull down in the end zone. "I told (Wallace) that if he could get (Cody Grimm's) back turned, I was going to give him a shot. Sure enough, (Wallace) did a good job," Batch said. The second touchdown, also in the first half, was a 41-yarder, which was tipped by a Tampa Bay defender and into Wallace's hands. Wallace finished with three catches for 100 yards, with his stats all coming in the first half. He was targeted four times -- also all in the first half. "It was very important (to use the passing game to open the running game) because they were stacking the box all day," Wallace said. "We had to go up top to back them off."
Analysis: The Steelers had a 28-6 halftime lead, so they went into ball control in the second half and hardly threw the football. At least Wallace cashed in in the first half and finally looked like the big-play threat the Steelers and Fantasy owners have been waiting for. It just stinks only 17 percent of Fantasy owners started him in Week 3. Wallace had all of four catches for 87 yards in his first two games since replacing Santonio Holmes, who was traded to the Jets in the offseason, so it wasn't hard to see why Fantasy owners were frustrated with Wallace's slow start. He gets the Ravens in Week 4, which is a touch matchup. Wallace had just three catches for 83 yards in two games against Baltimore last season. You might consider starting other alternatives before giving Wallace a look in Fantasy leagues for Week 4.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace has two long touchdown receptions in the first half against the Bucs. Wallace has gone deep for TDs of 46 and 41 yards with new starting QB Charlie Batch in the lineup.
Analysis: Wallace was expected to have a breakout season, but has not yet been able to have several opportunities while running QB Dennis Dixon was starting. Now that Batch is at the helm, he has looked to Wallace on two deep passes early in Tampa Bay. The TDs were his first two of the season and the 87 yards he already has matches his season total coming into the game.
News: The Steelers have had quite a quarterback carousel since training camp, and it hasn't stopped heading into Week 3 against the Bucs. The Steelers announced Wednesday that Charlie Batch will start against Tampa Bay in place of the injured Dennis Dixon and WR Mike Wallace says it will be business as usual. "This week we're going with Charlie (Batch), so we're going to practice and just try to get a feel for Charlie and what he does," Wallace said. Wallace has totaled four catches for 87 yards and no touchdowns in two games. He faces a defense that has allowed 197.5 passing yards per game (12th) and just two touchdowns to four interceptions.
Analysis: Wallace has been one of the biggest early season disappointments. Everyone was drafting Wallace as a breakout Fantasy star since he was going to replace Santonio Holmes, but the Steelers just haven't been able to get him the football on a consistent basis. Maybe Batch will have some luck in Week 3 or maybe we just have to wait until Ben Roethlisberger returns from his four-game suspension. Wallace is a tough Fantasy start heading into Week 3, so you might want to consider other alternatives.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace led his team in receiving in Week 2 at Tennessee, though he finished with just two catches for 25 yards. He was targeted four times in the game and had a 16-yard touchdown pass nullified due to an offensive holding penalty.
Analysis: The Steelers passing game was already tremendously weakened going into the game with Ben Roethlisberger serving his four-game suspension to begin the season. It got even weaker when they lost Dennis Dixon to injury and had to rely on veteran Charlie Batch. The Steelers finished with just 21 net passing yards in the game.
News: When Titans DB Cortland Finnegan was talking about the Steelers receivers on Friday, he threw some pretty flattering compliments toward second-year receiver Mike Wallace. Tennessee is set to play Pittsburgh in Week 2. “I think (Mike) Wallace is the most dangerous guy," Finnegan said. "He has speed out of this world. We have to be on our A game in stopping the deep ball." Wallace will face a Titans defense that allowed just 150 net passing yards in Week 1 to the Raiders. The Titans ranked 31st in the NFL against the pass last season, allowing 265.6 passing yards per game and 35 touchdowns in 16 games.
Analysis: Wallace broke free for a 52-yard reception in Week 1 against the Falcons, but that was about his lone highlight of the afternoon as he finished with just 62 yards and no score. He was coming off a strong preseason and has been pegged as a potential breakout candidate this year considering his new situation as a starter. However, the absence of Ben Roethlisberger for the first month of the season while he serves his suspension caps the potential of the Steelers' pass offense as a whole. We aren't too high on Wallace this week as a result, but the fact that he'll be a starter once again and will be on the field plenty makes him a viable low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option for Week 2.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace will face a Titans defense in Week 2 that allowed just 150 net passing yards in Week 1 to the Raiders. Wallace caught two passes for 62 yards in Week 1 against the Falcons in a 15-9 overtime win getting his first start with Santonio Holmes no longer part of the team. Wallace was targeted five times in the game. The Titans ranked 31st in the NFL against the pass last season, allowing 265.6 passing yards per game and 35 touchdowns in 16 games.
Analysis: Wallace broke free for a 52-yard reception in Week 1 against the Falcons, but that was about his lone highlight of the afternoon. He was coming off a strong preseason and has been pegged as a potential breakout candidate this year considering his new situation as a starter. However, the absence of Ben Roethlisberger for the first month of the season while he serves his suspension caps the potential of the Steelers' pass offense as a whole. We aren't too high on Wallace this week as a result, but the fact that he'll be a starter once again and will be on the field plenty makes him a viable low-end No. 3 option or a viable No. 4 WR for Week 2.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace broke free for a 52-yard reception in Week 1 against the Falcons, but that was about his lone highlight of the afternoon. Wallace got the home crowd's blood flowing with his long reception in the third quarter, but he caught just two of his five intended passes from QB Dennis Dixon in a 15-9 overtime win. Wallace had 62 yards in his first start in place of Santonio Holmes, who was traded to the Jets in the offseason.
Analysis: Fantasy owners were really psyched to see Wallace take the field in Week 1 after a stellar preseason. While he did have the big catch on Sunday and showed his downfield ability, a touchdown would have made Wallace's Week 1 Fantasy numbers that much better. Give this kid time. He should have a good year, especially once Ben Roethlisberger returns from suspension. Consider Wallace at best a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR heading into Week 2 against the Titans. Wallace had three catches for 32 yards in his debut against the Titans last season.
News: With Santonio Holmes out of the picture, Steelers WR Mike Wallace is now the starting wide receiver opposite to Hines Ward in Pittsburgh. He gets his first chance to show the country he can step up and fill the role in Week 1 against the Falcons. "He's fast as lightning," Falcons CB Dunta Robinson said. "He can change a game just like that. That's definitely a player we're going to be worried about." The second-year receiver has never faced the Falcons, but he has played four games against NFC opponents, compiling nine catches for 216 yards and four touchdowns. Wallace is set to face a defense that finished 28th against the pass (241.9 ypg) in 2009 and also allowed 25 passing touchdowns.
Analysis: Wallace had an awesome preseason, totaling 150 yards and one touchdown on six catches. He averaged 25 yards per catch and showed he could stretch the field. To begin the season, Wallace will be catching passes from Dennis Dixon, who is replacing the suspended Ben Roethlisberger for at least the first four games. With the preseason Wallace put together, it might not matter who is under center for Pittsburgh. Consider him a nice sleeper start at either the flex or wide receiver position in Week 1.
News: Fantasy owners got a glimpse on Sunday on why Steelers WR Mike Wallace has been one of the fastest rising players in drafts this year. Wallace caught his only target from QB Ben Roethlisberger, who played two series at the beginning of the game before turning the offense over to Dennis Dixon, which was a 47-yard gain on the first play from scrimmage for Pittsburgh. Dixon threw at Wallace four times, completing just two passes for 12 yards. Wallace finished with three catches for 59 yards.
Analysis: The Steelers are looking to fill the void at receiver opposite Hines Ward that was vacated when Santonio Holmes was dealt to New York. Wallace appears to be the guy in line to fill the job. He has totaled six catches for 150 yards and one touchdown. For those counting at home that is 25 yards per catch. Wallace is showing big-play ability and can be considered a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR on Draft Day. Fantasy owners have taken Wallace as high as the 60th pick in drafts.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace caught two passes for 80 yards, including a 68-yard touchdown from Byron Leftwich, as Pittsburgh defeated the Jets in Saturday's second preseason game for both teams.
Analysis: Expectations are high for Wallace heading into 2010 after his solid rookie campaign and the fact he will start across from veteran Hines Ward thanks to the departure of Santonio Holmes. His early connection with Leftwich, who will start at least the first four games of the regular season, is a positive sign, so continue to think of Wallace as a nice sleeper option worth taking as a No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace enjoyed a fine rookie season in 2009, hauling in 39 receptions for 756 yards and six touchdowns as the team's third receiver, but he will face new challenges this year, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. With split end Santonio Holmes traded to the Jets, Wallace has moved into the starting lineup and will no longer face the opponent's nickel or dime back. "With Santonio and I, I would get doubled, or Santonio would get doubled at the X and Mike was one on one with the corner," fellow wideout Hines Ward explained. "All the time. It was a lot easier [for Wallace] in that spot. Every down now, he'll get either their No. 1 or No. 2 corner. He'll see better competition." But Wallace, who played split end in college, isn't ready to wilt under the pressure. "I'm excited about that," he said. "To be the best, you have to beat the best. I'm looking forward to the challenge.
Analysis: Wallace has some pretty big shoes to fill -- Holmes recorded 79 catches for 1,248 yards last season. Wallace was the Steelers' big-play threat, averaging 19.4 yards per catch, but he'll face double teams in 2010, as well as better cornerbacks, so he'll certainly have to step up. He will post better numbers as a starter, a result of seeing more playing time, even if his average yardage is expected to drop. We love Wallace as a high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace said in an interview with CBSSports.com on Wednesday that he's excited for a bigger role in 2010 and has "big shoes to fill" in replacing Santonio Holmes as a starter after Holmes was traded to the Jets. As a rookie in 2009, Wallace was the No. 3 WR for the Steelers behind Hines Ward and Holmes and caught 39 passes for a NFL-high 19.4-yard average and six touchdowns, but he's looking for more this year. "Last year was a good year for me," Wallace said. "But my rookie year was just the beginning. I have a bigger role this year, and I'm excited about it. I'm just going to try not to screw things up." This year, Wallace will enter the starting lineup, and he's hoping to make the Pro Bowl. "I'm still going to surprise people this year, but I plan to come out of the gates fast," he said. "I'm going to make plays."
Analysis: Wallace said he's worked on his route-running, specifically his intermediate routes, since he thrived on the deep ball in his first year. We like Wallace as a sleeper in 2010, and he's worth a mid-round pick in all formats. He would be better if Ben Roethlisberger wasn't suspended to start the season, but Wallace should still post quality stats. He should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR on Draft Day.
News:Byron Leftwich needed only one practice to realize that Mike Wallace is on the fast track to replacing Santonio Holmes. During a recent 7-on-7 passing drill, Wallace beat his man cleanly, but Leftwich's pass landed behind the receiver. The timing and precision needed to correctly execute the fly pattern weren't there. After compensating for Wallace's speed, Leftwich managed to hit the former Mississippi receiver on the same deep pass play that didn't work the first time. Wallace knows what's being asked of him in replacing Holmes this season, but he's up to the task and has the backing of Steelers quarterbacks and the coaching staff. "I feel like they believe I can do the same things Santonio did," Wallace said. "I don't feel like there's anything Santonio did that I can't do. I'm still running some of the routes I ran last year, it's just that I have more of them to run."
Analysis: While we doubt that Wallace will average 19.4 yards per catch again this season, we do believe he'll easily top the 39 catches he had a season ago to make up for it. Wallace is a talent, but his quarterback situation is a mess as Ben Roethlisberger is suspended for at least the first four games for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. That will leave Leftwich as the likely passer for Wallace early in the season, and his stats could suffer a bit from it. But the upside combined with the opportunity makes Wallace attractive as a good No. 3 Fantasy WR coming into the season worth a middle- to late-round pick in all leagues.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports Steelers WR Mike Wallace is excited about the opportunity to replace Santonio Holmes, who was traded to the Jets. "There's going to be double-teams now," Wallace said. "With Santonio and Hines (Ward), a lot of that pressure was taken off (last season). I know I'm going against elite corners now. ... I think I can make a major jump — I'm trying to make it to the Pro Bowl this year. People are going to have their doubts, but I'm going to be ready." Wallace's rookie season was a pleasant surprise. He played more than anticipated in taking over for Nate Washington as the No. 3 receiver, catching 39 passes for a team-high 19.4-yard average and six touchdowns.
Analysis: Wallace will see a boost in production with Holmes gone, but his QB situation is a mess. Ben Roethlisberger is suspended for the first six games for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. The suspension can be reduced to four games, but no Big Ben will hurt Wallace. Dennis Dixon and Byron Leftwich will compete for the starting QB spot, and hopefully whoever wins can get the ball to Wallace. He should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR coming into the season and is worth a late-round pick in all leagues.
News: Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger was suspended for six games without pay Wednesday for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy and ordered to undergo behavioral evaluation. Commissioner Roger Goodell made the announcement a week after prosecutors decided not to charge Roethlisberger after a 20-year-old college student accused him of sexually assaulting her in a Georgia nightclub in March. Goodell said the league's conduct policy gave him the right to impose discipline. Roethlisberger must undergo a "comprehensive behavioral evaluation by medical professionals" and may not attend any team offseason activities until that evaluation is completed. The suspension could be reduced to four games for good behavior. Sitting out all six games would cost him an estimated $2.8 million. With Roethlisberger out, the Steelers plan to have Dennis Dixon and Byron Leftwich compete for the starting job. Charlie Batch is also on the roster. With the suspension, Steelers receivers Hines Ward, Mike Wallace, Limas Sweed and Heath Miller will have a new starting QB.
Analysis: Wallace was expected to get a boost with Santonio Holmes being traded to the Jets. He should still see an increase in production, but Wallace should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best. He's worth a late-round pick in all leagues, but don't overvalue Wallace like he was before once Holmes was traded. His value should improve once Roethlisberger returns from the suspension, whether it's after four games or six.
News: With the Steelers trading WR Santonio Holmes to the Jets for a draft pick, all signs point to second-year receiver Mike Wallace moving into the starting lineup. Wallace had a breakout rookie season with 39 catches for 756 yards and six touchdowns (one more than Holmes), but he played as a slot option and did a lot of damage in the deep game.
Analysis: Wallace did well last season partially because of Holmes, who drew good coverage compared to what was assigned to Wallace. That's going to change obviously if he starts. But the simple fact that he'll be playing more often will help his chances to get more catches in 2010, but maintaining the sick 19.4 yards-per-catch average will be much more difficult. He remains a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR until he can prove that he's an acceptable replacement for Holmes in the Steel City. Think of him right around the same part of drafts when you'd think of Holmes, between Rounds 8 and 9.
News: Steelers WR Santonio Holmes said in an interview with CBSSports.com that he expects Mike Wallace to improve on his solid rookie season when he emerged as the No. 3 WR for Pittsburgh behind Holmes and Hines Ward. In 2009, Wallace had a breakout season with 39 catches for 756 yards, six touchdowns and another 48 yards rushing. "That's a special kid," Holmes said. "To come on as early as he did for us last season, it definitely helped. He learned from two veterans who are Super Bowl MVPs who work hard every day. I'm pretty sure he wants to follow in those footsteps."
Analysis: Wallace has the chance to continue to play well in his sophomore year. We like him as a low-end No. 3 Fantasy option, and he's worth drafting with a late-round pick in all leagues.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace caught two passes for 64 yards and a touchdown in a Week 17 win at Miami.
Analysis: Wallace came pretty much out of nowhere to put together a 700-yard season in 2009. He will still be stuck behind Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes to open 2010, but he will be worth drafting in deeper leagues as a nice No. 3 WR or flex option.
News: Steelers rookie WR Mike Wallace had another solid game Sunday against Baltimore. He didn't have two touchdowns like in Week 15 against Green Bay, but he did have three catches for 83 yards.
Analysis: Wallace has done well as a rookie this year as the No. 3 WR for the Steelers. Look for him to finish the season strong in Week 17 at Miami. Consider Wallace a No. 3 Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: The Steelers listed Hines Ward, Mike Wallace, Willie Parker and Rashard Mendenhall as active for Week 16 against Baltimore. Each player had been listed as probable on the injury report and had been expected to play.
Analysis: There were no real surprises here. If you were counting on any of these players for Week 16 in your Fantasy league it is safe to continue to keep them active. This is the official word you may have been waiting for.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace (knee) has been listed as probable for the team's Week 16 game against the Ravens.
Analysis: Wallace has topped 70 yards receiving three times this season, which isn't bad for a No. 3 wide receiver. Still, his inconsistency makes him hard to recommend in standard Fantasy leagues. Keep him reserved except in deeper leagues when the Steelers host the Ravens in Week 16.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace (knee) was limited in his participation at practice on Wednesday as the Steelers prepare to host the Ravens Week 16.
Analysis: Wallace had a total of 93 yards receiving over five games before Week 15 when he bounced back with his best performance of the season against the Packers. He finished with only two catches, but both went for touchdowns, including a 19-yarder as time expired to win the game. Shortly before making his decisive catch, Wallace quickly went to the locker room to get stitches to close a gash on his knee. He finished with 79 yards receiving. That knee problem is what is keeping him on the practice report now and we don't believe he's a threat to miss the game. Wallace has topped 70 yards receiving three times this season, which isn't bad for a third wide receiver. Still, his inconsistency makes him hard to recommend in standard Fantasy leagues. Keep him reserved except in deeper leagues when the Steelers host the Ravens in Week 16.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace, who had a total of 93 yards receiving over his last five games, bounced back with his best performance of the season Week 15 against the Packers. He finished with only two catches, but both went for touchdowns, including a 19-yarder as time expired to win the game. Shortly before making his decisive catch, Wallace quickly went to the locker room to get stitches to close a gash on his knee. He finished with 79 yards receiving.
Analysis: Wallace has topped 70 yards receiving three times this season, which isn't bad for a third wide receiver. Still, his inconsistency makes him hard to recommend in standard Fantasy leagues. Keep him reserved except in deeper leagues when the Steelers host the Ravens in Week 16.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace did not get a chance to start on Thursday at Cleveland as Hines Ward was able to play through his hamstring injury. Wallace made just two receptions in the game, gaining a total of 11 yards. Wallace was expected to get the start as the team’s No. 2 receiver if Ward was inactive for the game.
Analysis: Ward will now have 10 days to let hit hamstring heal further, so it seems unlikely that he will sit out Week 15 against the Packers unless he suffers a setback. Wallace has two catches or fewer in each of his past five games and has not found the end zone during that stretch. He should at best be considered a No. 3 Fantasy option for Week 15. However, monitor Ward’s injury status in practice next week to make sure that Wallace won’t in fact be starting.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace may need to be the No. 2 receiver for the Steelers on Thursday night at Cleveland in Week 14. That is because Hines Ward has a hamstring injury and is a good bet to miss the game. If he does miss the game, Wallace will then become the second option in the passing game for Ben Roethlisberger behind Santonio Holmes. The Browns are among the worst pass defenses in the NFL and Wallace totaled 71 yards against them the last time the two teams met but this time it will come in terrible weather in Cleveland. This is going to affect the passing game for Roethlisberger.
Analysis: Wallace, if he's the No. 2 with Ward out, will definitely see a great workload. That said, if the snow is forcing the Steelers to keep the ball on the ground, that negates that positive value gained. We give Wallace added value for Week 14 but still cannot label him greater than a No. 3 Fantasy option. If Ward plays, he's more like a last-resort option.
News: Wide receiver Hines Ward strained a hamstring near the end of the Steelers' 27-24 loss to the Raiders and might miss Thursday night's game in Cleveland. Coach Mike Tomlin says that with a short week of preparation, Ward is "very questionable" to play. Mike Wallace would see significantly more playing time in place of Ward if he can't go.
Analysis: Wallace would be a sensational replacement for him in all leagues. The Browns' pass defense is shaky at best and Ben Roethlisberger tends to have his way with Cleveland when he plays against them. You should pencil in Wallace as a low-end No. 2/top-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 14.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace caught two passes for 19 yards in the Week 13 loss to Oakland.
Analysis: Wallace was expected to do some big things for the Steelers but has been mostly non-existent over the last few weeks. The Steelers play at Cleveland in Week 14 and Wallace caught two passes for 50 yards against the Browns in Week 6. Wallace should only be considered in deeper Fantasy leagues, however.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace was targeted four times in Week 12 at Baltimore but didn't make a single catch.
Analysis: Wallace's production was expected to decline with third-string QB Dennis Dixon starting in place of Ben Roethlisberger. Now, if Big Ben in back under center in Week 13 when the Raiders roll into Pittsburgh, then Wallace will warrant some consideration. The Oakland secondary is good but they were lit up by the Cowboys in Week 12 including a big game by big-play receiver Miles Austin. Wallace should be considered startable in deeper leagues depending on who his quarterback will be, so stay in touch with us.
News: With the news that the Steelers will play at the Ravens in Week 12 without starting QB Ben Roethlisberger, the receiving corps in Pittsburgh isn't expected to do as well. Second-year quarterback Dennis Dixon will get the nod, and he is more of a project-type passer than anything else. Known for his feet more than his arm in college, Dixon isn't expected to have much of the Steelers' game plan fall on his shoulders. By extension, the Steelers' receivers are unlikely to take advantage of their matchup against the Ravens secondary.
Analysis: Figure Hines Ward is more of a No. 2 receiver while Santonio Holmes is more like a low-end No. 3 option. Mike Wallace isn't expected to put up big numbers and should be considered for the bench, and even though young quarterbacks like to lean on their tight ends, Heath Miller will still have to deal with the Ravens' pesky safeties, which have limited his totals over the course of his career in this matchup. Play it safe and consider all other options before leaning on a Steelers receiver in Week 12.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace caught two passes for 47 yards in Week 11 at Kansas City. He was targeted three times in the game. He also got one carry for 5 yards and lost a fumble.
Analysis: Wallace was not targeted much in a game where the Steelers threw the ball 44 times. Wallace has three touchdowns this season, but his production has been far too erratic to rely upon. Leave him reserved in most leagues for Week 12 at Baltimore.
News: Steelers rookie WR Mike Wallace struggled Sunday against the Bengals. He was held to one catch for 16 yards and failed to score a touchdown for the first time in three games.
Analysis: This was Wallace's worst game of the season, but he should rebound in Week 11 at Kansas City. Consider Wallace a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR against the Chiefs.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace had a fantastic Monday night performance in a win over the Broncos in Denver in Week 9. Wallace caught four passes for 69 yards in the game and recorded a 25-yard TD reception in the 4th quarter from QB Ben Roethlisberger. Wallace added one rushing attempt on an end around and went for 3 yards.
Analysis: Wallace is a speedster for the Steelers who provides some excitement in the passing game behind Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward. He’s kind of like Antwaan Randle El was without the ability to throw the football. Wallace has gone for at least 47 receiving yards in six straight games and has a 100-yard game and three touchdowns mixed in. He’s a little harder to predict than the other two WRs on the roster but he has a good chance at putting up good numbers Week 10 against a terrible Cincinnati pass defense. Wallace had his best game – seven catches for 102 yards – in Week 3 against the Bengals so go ahead and treat him as a high-end No. 3 Fantasy option for the Week 10 rematch.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace, who has two touchdowns in his last three games, will try to continue his nice scoring run in Week 9 at Denver. The Broncos rank eighth against the pass this season, allowing just four scores through the air.
Analysis: Wallace is coming off a bye, but he's etched his name in Fantasy owner's minds with his play this season and could be a decent No. 3 Fantasy WR option in Week 9, as the Steelers could be chucking the ball around quite a bit.
News: Steelers rookie WR Mike Wallace was Ben Roethlisberger's best friend in Week 7 vs. the Vikings, catching three passes for 72 yards and a touchdown. Two catches for 62 yards came on consecutive plays, with the second catch good for a 40-yard touchdown. Wallace also had 19 yards on two rushes.
Analysis: Wallace continues to warrant being owned in Fantasy play, though starting him is definitely a risky proposition since he can disappear in any given week. The Steelers are on bye in Week 8 and play in Week 9 at Denver. Consider Wallace no better than a low-end No. 3 WR for that matchup.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace caught two passes for 50 yards in Week 6 against Cleveland. He also rushed once for 21 yards.
Analysis: Wallace had seven catches for 102 yards in Week 3 and has managed at least 47 receiving yards in four straight games. He had a touchdown in Week 5 against Detroit and has been a viable low-end receiver that can be used as a bye-week or injury replacement. The Steelers play the Vikings in Week 7.
News: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace scored his first touchdown of the season when Ben Roethlisberger found him streaking down the sidelines in the 3rd quarter of their win over the Lions in Week 5. Wallace recorded a 47-yard TD catch and finished the game with two grabs for 52 yards and the score.
Analysis: Wallace has caught at least two passes in every game this season for Pittsburgh and even topped 100 yards Week 3 against the Bengals. He's been a solid third or fourth receiving option behind Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes and TE Heath Miller but that still keeps him more a bye-week replacement as a flex or low-end No. 3 Fantasy receiver for Week 6 against Cleveland.
News: A week after breaking out against the Bengals, Steelers WR Mike Wallace came back down to earth against the Chargers, catching just two passes for 47 yards in Week 4.
Analysis: Wallace is going to be inconsistent for Fantasy owners this season since he's still learning the nuances of his position. When the matchup is right, he's worth a look as a low-end No. 3 WR. Such is the case for Week 5 when the Steelers play at the Lions, whose defense against the pass is not good. Wallace should at least match his totals from Week 4 against the Lions.
News: Steelers rookie WR Mike Wallace led the team with seven catches for 102 yards Week 3 at Cincinnati. He had a total of five catches for 45 yards over the first two games.
Analysis: Wallace has emerged as the team's No. 3 WR, but he looked like even more than that Sunday. He doesn't stand to pass Santonio Holmes or Hines Ward on the depth chart anytime soon, but he proved with this performance he's a viable bye-week replacement in deeper leagues. The Steelers host the Chargers in Week 4.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace, who was clearly the third receiver Week 2 at Chicago with Limas Sweed sidelined by a foot injury, didn't make much of a contribution. He caught two passes for 13 yards.
Analysis: Wallace, a rookie, had three catches for 32 yards in Week 1, but coach Mike Tomlin hasn't technically moved him ahead of Sweed on the depth chart. In any case, he probably won't get enough catches each week to matter in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers for Week 3 at Cincinnati.
News: Steelers WR Limas Sweed won't play Sunday against the Bears because of a sprained foot. Sweed was hurt during practice Wednesday and hasn't practiced since. Rookie Mike Wallace is expected to be the Steelers' No. 3 receiver, with Shaun McDonald taking Sweed's spot on the active roster.
Analysis: Sweed played in the Steelers' first game against the Titans but did not record a stat. He would not be recommended for Week 2 whether he was injured or not, so just keep him out of all lineups Week 2. Wallace and McDonald should also remain inactive for Week 2.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette warns not to read too much into the way Mike Wallace was used in Week 1 against Tennessee. Limas Sweed remains the team's No. 3 wide receiver.
Analysis: The Post-Gazette adds that while Wallace took nearly all of the snaps as the third receiver, it wasn't by design. Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians said he even told Sweed after the game that he didn't mean to keep him on the bench as much as he did. Arians wants to involve Sweed, last year's No. 2 draft choice, in the offense this season, especially after his productive preseason. And he insists Sweed and Wallace are interchangeable in that role, meaning either one could end up getting most of the snaps in a given game. For now, we consider both receivers as reserve options who may be useful during bye weeks as one-week replacements in larger leagues, but no more. Don't use either for Week 2 at Chicago.
News: Steelers rookie WR Mike Wallace made his regular-season NFL debut during a Week 1 win against the Titans. He hauled in three receptions for 32 yards. He was targeted six times in the game and his longest catch went 22 yards.
Analysis: Wallace had a chance to make a splash early as QB Ben Roethlisberger fired a deep pass to the rookie on the first drive, but the duo could not hook up for a big gainer. However, Wallace still spent most of the night as the Steelers' third receiver ahead of Limas Sweed. Pittsburgh is looking for someone to replace Nate Washington, who left for Tennessee in the offseason. Wallace made a strong case Week 1, but is still more of a Fantasy reserve until further notice. The Steelers play the Bears Week 2.
News: Pittsburgh WR Shaun McDonald continues to be locked in a battle to become the Steelers' No. 3 wide receiver, a job vacated when Nate Washington signed with Tennessee. McDonald, second-year WR Limas Sweed and rookie Mike Wallace are all vying for the job. "I’m kind of worried about what I can do," said McDonald. "I know I can play. But do I fit in with what they’re trying to do? I just have to show what I can do and hopefully I fit in with what they’re trying to do."
Analysis: Whichever receiver actually wins the No. 3 WR job behind Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes will be, at best, merely a low-end Fantasy reserve to begin the season. They will have one-week values at times but shouldn't be more than mid-season waiver wire pickups.
News: The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed a trio of draft picks to three-year contracts. The Steelers signed WR Mike Wallace, DE Ra'Shon Harris and center A.Q. Shipley on Thursday. Wallace was a third-round pick out of Ole Miss. Harris was selected in the sixth round out of Oregon and Shipley in the seventh from Penn State.
Analysis: Wallace is competing for the No. 4 WR spot behind Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes and Limas Sweed. He should not be drafted in seasonal formats but it worth taking in rookie-only drafts with a late-round pick.
News: The Steelers drafted WR Mike Wallace from Mississippi in the third round of the NFL Draft on Sunday at pick No. 84 overall. Wallace, who is 6-foot-1, 199 pounds, is a deep threat who caught 39 passes for 784 yards and seven TDs in 2008.
Analysis: Wallace will likely replace Nate Washington and compete with Limas Sweed for the No. 3 spot behind Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes. Wallace is not worth drafting in standard leagues, but can be takend with a late-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
