Footballguys Daily Email - Volume 10, Issue 141 (Monday, September 7th)
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Hi Folks,
Good Tuesday to you. It's almost here and we hope you're as excited as we are. We've got a ton of new content for you today plus we're rolling out all the Week 1 Inseason content for our subscribers. Hope you'll hang with us all season long. We've also got all the news and notes you want so let's get to it.
J
SITE NEWS
A.
*** HOT *** Deadline for $35,000 Subscriber Contest Tuesday night 9-8
I've been shouting about our $35,000 Subscriber Contest for weeks now. It's $35 THOUSAND dollars we'll be giving away to folks that have purchased a premium Footballguys Subscription. BUT BUT BUT, the deadline for submitting your entry is tonight, 9/8. 11:59 PM eastern time to be exact. PLEASE don't let this pass you by. Every year we have a few sad folks that forget and want us to extend the deadline. We just can't do that as it wouldn't be fair to all the other people that turned their roster in on time. So please don't forget to turn in your team.
B.
Week 1 In Season Content is LIVE
This is always the weirdest week of the season for us as lots of people are drafting this week and need all the preseason stuff but everyone also is getting ready for Week 1 of the regular season and they need our Regular Season content. When you go to our Footballguys.com page, you'll see the green bar near the top that says "WEEK" on the left. Click on the "1" to see our Week 1 Material. Or you can just click on the headline link for this blurb. We've got a slew of features heading your way this week and even more next week when we get into our regular flow.
C.
From the Gut (Running Backs)
Our own David Dodds throws the projections out the window and tells you what his gut is telling him about the running backs this year.
D.
Draft Dominator Application
You know by now that the Draft Dominator Application is the most powerful tool out there for helping you smoke the competition at your draft. It just got better with all the latest stat projections. It's almost unfair...
E.
Have a Draft This Week? - Get What You NEED TO KNOW
These email updates are helpful I hope. But they're just the very tip of the iceberg of what we offer. And they're about to end. If you're serious about Dominating Your Draft this year, why not be as prepared as you can be? Our Footballguys Premium Subscription gives you everything you need to smoke the competition at your draft AND we'll give you all the information all season long so you can roll onto your Super Bowl. It's just $27.95 and we have a MONEY BACK GUARANTEE. Show the guys in your league no mercy.
F.
VBD Application
For you folks looking for the old school VBD (Value Based Drafting) excel app, here it is with all the new projections.
G.
New Projections
We've been updating our detailed stat projections pretty much constantly since May. And my partner David Dodds isn't going to stop now as we head down the home stretch. A new set up projected stats are up and ready for you guys having drafts right before kickoff.
H.
Expert Staff Rankings
As with the projections, we've been updating our rankings from our staff guys all spring and summer and we'll keep it up right until kickoff. Knock yourselves out.
I.
Average Draft Position
As I've said all spring and summer - it's one thing to know where you want to draft a guy. But you need to know where the other owners in your league want to draft the guy. Our Average Draft Position (ADP) rankings give you the best possible picture for that.
J.
Average Draft Position for PPR leagues
As I've said all spring and summer - it's one thing to know where you want to draft a guy. But you need to know where the other owners in your league want to draft the guy. Our Average Draft Position (ADP) rankings give you the best possible picture for that. This one looks at the PPR format.
K.
My Fantasy League Import Application
We've got lots of folks that use My Fantasy League and our import app is ready for you.
L.
Projections Dominator Application
If you want to get the most out of our Footballguys projections, download the Projections Dominator app and tweak to your heart's content.
M.
Winning the NFFC - Telling Yourself a Story
Our Chase Stuart with his story of drafting in the NFFC high stakes league.
N.
NFFC Event Recap
Our Chase Stuart recently participated in the high stakes NFFC league and recaps it for us here.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1. DET - HC Schwartz: QB Matthew Stafford as starter is not 'experiment'2. DET - QB Matthew Stafford named starting QB
3. KC - QB Matt Cassel's status for week 1 uncertain
4. DET - QB Matthew Stafford's chemistry with WR Calvin Johnson factor in naming him starter
5. TB - Cadillac Williams returns to No. 1 running back on depth chart
6. ARI - WR Anquan Boldin misses practice Monday
7. DET - HC Schwartz says QB Matthew Stafford has good command of offense
8. MIA - Musical receivers: WR Davone Bess listed as starter
9. KC - QB Matt Cassel practices Monday
10. JAX - Three receivers see time with first team Monday
11. CLE - Mangini mum on starting quarterback
12. PIT - 30 carries per game for RB Willie Parker?
13. DEN - WR Brandon Marshall eligible to play Week 1
14. CIN - WR Chris Henry an X factor in the offense
15. IND - WR Pierre Garcon and WR Austin Collie to share the No. 3 load
16. BAL - WR Derrick Mason says shoulder fine
17. TEN - TE Jared Cook limited during practice Monday
18. TEN - WR Nate Washington limited during practice Monday
19. ATL - QB Matt Ryan misses practice Monday
20. NFL - Teams showing interest in WR David Tyree
21. DET - PK Jason Hanson uncertain for Week 1
22. CLE - RB Jamal Lewis has a lot to contribute to offense
23. NFL - Marvin WR Marvin Harrison not drawing much interest
24. BUF - Team thin at tailback early in the season
25. CIN - RB Bernard Scott needs to continue improving on his blocking
26. BUF - Meeting of the minds was to make owner more comfortable
27. CIN - TE Chase Coffman to see work in double-tight end sets
28. DEN - WR Brandon Marshall takes part in practice Sunday
29. TEN - RB LenDale White not afraid to give bulletin board material
30. GB - RB Ryan Grant worked hard during the offseason
31. CHI - CB Charles Tillman 50-50 to play Sunday night
32. MIN - HC Childress to name backup quarterback on Sunday
33. WAS - Zorn not ready to name starting receiver opposite Moss
34. WAS - Team is committed to Betts as third-down back
35. NO - DE Will Smith, DE Charles Grant to play week 1 unless league says otherwise
36. NE - Patriots cut WR Greg Lewis
37. CAR - GM says RB claim has no connection to RB Jonathan Stewart's condition
38. NE - RB Sammy Morris ready to go for season opener
39. BAL - Team talking to RB Lorenzo Neal, Jets also contacted FB
40. OAK - WR Chaz Schilens misses practice Monday
41. OAK - RB Justin Fargas misses practice Monday
42. GB - WR Greg Jennings cleared to play Week 1
43. HOU - QB Rex Grossman closes the gap in competition
44. IND - S Bob Sanders to return in 5-6 weeks
45. OAK - DE Richard Seymour deal on hold?
46. SD - OLB Shawne Merriman's clock ticking with team?
47. OAK - Cable says DE Richard Seymour working out issues with NE
DET - HC Schwartz: QB Matthew Stafford as starter is not 'experiment'
Source: Tom Kowalski - Mlive.com
Tom Kowalski, of Mlive.com, reports that Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said QB Matthew Stafford is secure as the starter. "This isn't an internship or an experiment," Schwartz said.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
We commend Schwartz's full vote of confidence in Stafford, because it will likely get ugly against early opponents like Pittsburgh and Minnesota.
DET - QB Matthew Stafford named starting QB
Source: Adam Schefter - ESPN
Adam Schefter, of ESPN, reports the Detroit Lions have picked QB Matthew Stafford as the team's starting quarterback.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Well there you have it! The future is now, and the Lions decided to go ahead and get a jump start with rookie Matthew Stafford leading the way. Any quarterback that gets to throw to Calvin Johnson is going to put up some numbers, and Stafford is well ahead of where most rookie quarterbacks are. He will still make rookie mistakes, and he'll have his fair share of passes that are picked off. However, he has the ability to make plays downfield, and if the play breaks down, Stafford can make plays with his feet, plus he throws well on the run.
KC - QB Matt Cassel's status for week 1 uncertain
Source: Associated Press
The Associated Press reports quarterback Matt Cassel appeared on Kansas City's practice field Monday for the first time since injuring his left knee on Aug. 29, but his status for Sunday's opener at Baltimore remained unclear. Coach Todd Haley was evasive whether Cassel would play Sunday. "I think that as the week goes on, we'll know a little bit more," said Haley. "We'll know a little bit more with Matt for sure. But it was good that he was out there. He was able to get through some things. As the week goes on a little further, we'll know a little more as far as where he's at."
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According to the report, Brodie Croyle would be the week one starter against Baltimore if Cassel can't give it a go.
DET - QB Matthew Stafford's chemistry with WR Calvin Johnson factor in naming him starter
Source: Associated Press
The Associated Press reports that Lions QB Matthew Stafford's chemistry with WR Calvin Johnson was a factor in his being named the starting QB by head coach Jim Schwartz. "I think he had 15 snaps in the preseason with Calvin, and you could already see what was possible there," Schwartz said. "The big plays were always there."
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This is terrific news for folks who drafted Calvin Johnson as one of the first two picks in their draft lately. Stafford loved to attack the defense in the deep secondary at Georgia, and that should continue right away in Detroit. Johnson could put up Randy Moss-like numbers if Stafford doesn't struggle too badly in his rookie year.
TB - Cadillac Williams returns to No. 1 running back on depth chart
Source: Buccaneers.com
According to Buccaneers.com, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are now listing RB Cadillac Williams as their No. 1 running back, followed by RBs Derrick Ward, Earnest Graham and Clifton Smith, respectively.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Williams was likely a value in most drafts this year. His performance in week 1 vs. the Cowboys could make him a hot item for week 2, but we don't expect big things from an offense that just lost its coordinator.
ARI - WR Anquan Boldin misses practice Monday
Source: Darren Urban - AZCardinals.com
Darren Urban, of AZCardinals.com, reports Arizona Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin (hamstring) did not participate in practice Monday, Sept. 7.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
We'll be tracking Boldin's practice status. If he can't go, Steve Breaston could be a great week 1 start against San Francisco.
DET - HC Schwartz says QB Matthew Stafford has good command of offense
Source: Jimmy Trombley - CBSSports.com
CBSSports.com reports Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said QB Matthew Stafford's command of the offense made him stand out during competition for the team's starting quarterback job. 'I think his command of the offense is very good and his command of the defense is very good,' Schwartz said.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Stafford has always been a good leader on the field, and his teammates seem to respond to his confidence. He is a very smart quarterback, and a tough competitor. Stafford has been very impressive since day one with the Lions, and the team has constantly stated that he's better than advertised. Now it's time for him to live up to the hype, and we'll see how he manages what NFL defenses are sure to throw at him.
MIA - Musical receivers: WR Davone Bess listed as starter
Source: Updating previous reports, Omar Kelly - The South Florida SunSentinel
Updating previous reports, Omar Kelly, of The South Florida SunSentinel, reports Miami Dolphins WR Davone Bess is listed as the team's starting wide receiver entering Week 1, but WR Greg Camarillo was working with the team's first-string offense during practice.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Round and round we go, where this stops nobody knows. It seems like every receiver on the 'Phins roster has lined up with the first team in training camp. Regardless of who is the actual starter, we feel that both Bess and Camarillo will have value. Camarillo might actually be better suited to play the slot position, where he could be a Wes Welker-like target for Chad Pennington.
KC - QB Matt Cassel practices Monday
Source: Josh Looney - KCChiefs.com
Josh Looney, of KCChiefs.com, reports Kansas City Chiefs QB Matt Cassel (knee) was in full pads and practicing with the team Monday, Sept. 7. He wore a brace on his left knee and did all individual drills that the quarterbacks participated in.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
This is a good sign, but it's not guaranteed that he'll be ready for the week 1 matchup against the Ravens. In fact, Cassel would be best left out of the lineup against a team like Baltimore if he's not 100%. Even if Cassel is a go, we're not recommending him as a starter for your fantasy lineup because of the brutal matchup.
JAX - Three receivers see time with first team Monday
Source: Jim Nasella - CBSSports.com
CBSSports.com reports Jacksonville Jaguars WRs Torry Holt, Troy Williamson and Nate Hughes received reps with the first-team offense during practice Monday, Sept. 7.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
With all the hoopla around the resurrection of Troy Williamson's career and the talented trio of rookie wide receivers from the Jags draft, Hughes emergence has gotten lost in the shuffle. He might be worth an addition in deep dynasty leagues if Mike Sims-Walker can't stay healthy once again this year.
CLE - Mangini mum on starting quarterback
Source: Marty Gitlin - CBSSports.com
CBSSports.com reports Cleveland Browns head coach Eric Mangini has decided who his starting quarterback will be for Week 1 but will not reveal his decision as he wants to make defensive planning more difficult for the Minnesota Vikings, the team's Week 1 opponent. Mangini added he expects QBs Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson to prepare as though they are starters.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Ah that crafty Eric Mangini. We expect Brady Quinn to be announced as the starter, right before kickoff probably, but neither one of these quarterbacks has seized the job in training camp.
PIT - 30 carries per game for RB Willie Parker?
Source: Associated Press
The Associated Press reports Pittsburgh Steelers RB Willie Parker said head coach Mike Tomlin told him that he will have 30 carries per game this season. The team is expected to have a two-back system with Parker and RB Rashard Mendenhall. 'We got a two-back system now, so when they call my number I just got to be ready,' Parker said. 'Coach Tomlin told me 30 carries (per game), but I don't know about that. I've just got to be ready.'
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Thirty carries a game is a bit outlandish, but the point here is that Willie Parker is the lead back in Pittsburgh. Yes, Rashard Mendenhall will get a share of the carries but all signs indicate that share will be minimal. Mendenhall only averaged 3.1 YPC during the preseason, and didn't impress the coaching staff enough to get a lion's share of the work. Parker has battled injuries the last couple of seasons, and if he goes down again the team will look to Mendenhall to lead the way.
DEN - WR Brandon Marshall eligible to play Week 1
Source: Bill Williamson - ESPN.com
Bill Williamson, of ESPN.com, reports the Denver Broncos reinstated suspended WR Brandon Marshall Sunday, Sept. 6. Marshall is now eligible to play in the team's Week 1 game.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Brandon Marshall has to realize he can't pout his way out of Denver. We'll see if he can get his head on straight, and be the dominant player he's been in years past.
CIN - WR Chris Henry an X factor in the offense
Source: Joe Reedy - The Cincinnati Enquirer
Joe Reedy, of The Cincinnati Enquirer, reports Cincinnati Bengals WR Chris Henry could be a true 'X' factor for the Bengals' offense this season. He is looking to play in his first full season since 2005, and QB Carson Palmer has called him Randy Moss Jr. due to his big-play capability.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Many have predicted that Henry would take over Chad Ochocinco's role as the #1 target in this offense during the season. Henry has certainly displayed the chemistry with Carson Palmer and big-play ability that would get him in that role during the preseason. Henry scored in every preseason game, and comes into the season with a lot of positive momentum.
IND - WR Pierre Garcon and WR Austin Collie to share the No. 3 load
Source: Mike Chappell - The Indianapolis Star
Mike Chappell, of The Indianapolis Star, reports Indianapolis Colts WRs Pierre Garcon and rookie Austin Collie will likely share the team's No. 3 receiver role this season.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Garcon is speedier, Collie is a more polished receiver. If Anthony Gonzalez or Reggie Wayne were to go down, both players would get a significant bump in value, but we think Garcon's playmaking ability and experience in the offense would probably earn him the starting nod.
BAL - WR Derrick Mason says shoulder fine
Source: Jamison Hensley - The Baltimore Sun
Jamison Hensley, of The Baltimore Sun, reports Baltimore Ravens WR Derrick Mason said his shoulder is 100 percent healthy and expects to stay healthy this season.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Injuries have ravaged the Ravens wide receiving corps this season, and the team is going to heavily rely on Derrick Mason if he can stay healthy.
TEN - TE Jared Cook limited during practice Monday
Source: Jim Wyatt - The Tennessean
Jim Wyatt, of The Tennessean, reports Tennessee Titans TE Jared Cook (ankle) was limited during practice Monday, Sept. 7. His status for Week 1 is uncertain.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Cook has looked ready to be a big part of the Titans passing offense right off the bat. They will miss him against the Steelers if he can't go on Thursday because you have to pass to beat one of the best defense in the league.
TEN - WR Nate Washington limited during practice Monday
Source: Jim Wyatt - The Tennessean
Jim Wyatt, of The Tennessean, reports Tennessee Titans WR Nate Washington (hamstring) was limited during practice Monday, Sept. 7. His status for Week 1 is uncertain.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
The Titans would be smart to rest Washington against the Steelers unless he is 100% because his speed is his main asset, and he won't be able to use it if he doesn't trust his hamstring.
ATL - QB Matt Ryan misses practice Monday
Source: D. Orlando Ledbetter - The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
D. Orlando Ledbetter, of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, reports Atlanta Falcons QB Matt Ryan (illness) did not participate in practice Monday, Sept. 7, because of an illness.
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No worries here, sounds like something temporary.
NFL - Teams showing interest in WR David Tyree
Source: Bill Williamson - ESPN.com
Bill Williamson, of ESPN.com, reports the Baltimore Ravens and St. Louis Rams have showed interest in free-agent WR David Tyree (Giants).
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Tyree is a vested veteran, and he will most likely have to wait until after the first game of the season to be signed. If he were to be signed before the start of the regular season, his entire salary for the year would be guaranteed if the team decided to cut him later.
DET - PK Jason Hanson uncertain for Week 1
Source: Carlos Monarrez - the Detroit Free Press
Carlos Monarrez, of the Detroit Free Press, reports Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said he is uncertain at this point whether PK Jason Hanson (knee) will be available for Week 1.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Definitely one to watch this week.
CLE - RB Jamal Lewis has a lot to contribute to offense
Source: George M. Thomas - The Beacon Journal
George M. Thomas, of The Beacon Journal, reports Cleveland Browns head coach Eric Mangini said he thinks RB Jamal Lewis has 'a lot to contribute' to the team this year. 'I'm looking forward to seeing him as we go throughout the season,' Mangini said. Lewis, as noted here several times, was speculated to be on the bubble, but remains with the team. 'I think one thing that happens during any transitional time in the league is that there's always speculation on a lot of different topics,' Mangini noted about the reports surrounding Lewis' potential release.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
There was too much smoke around Lewis for there not to be some fire of the team considering his release. The emergence of James Davis has made him the better pick in the double-digit rounds.
NFL - Marvin WR Marvin Harrison not drawing much interest
Source: Mike Chappell - The Indianapolis Star
Mike Chappell, of The Indianapolis Star, reports free-agent WR Marvin Harrison (Colts) received virtually no interest during the offseason or preseason from other teams.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
The only people bringing up Harrison in connection with teams needing wide receivers were members of the media and fans, not coaches or personnel people of the teams.
BUF - Team thin at tailback early in the season
Source: Chris Brown - BuffaloBills.com
Chris Brown, of BuffaloBills.com, reports Buffalo Bills head coach Dick Jauron said the team didn't make any easy moves when it came to cutting players at the deadline. In regards to running back depth, he noted he wishes the team was five-deep at running back and even said he wishes they could take seven players into a game. By releasing RB Dominic Rhodes, the Bills are down to tailbacks Fred Jackson and Xavier Omon for the first three games while Marshawn Lynch serves his suspension. 'We wish Dominic the best. He's a good player,' Jauron said of his former back.
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The release of Dominic Rhodes was a surprise because everyone assumed he was signed to help share the load with Fred Jackson while Marshawn Lynch was serving his suspension. Xavier Omon could be the hot waiver wire pickup of week 2 if Fred Jackson's thumb injury gets worse against New England in the season opener.
CIN - RB Bernard Scott needs to continue improving on his blocking
Source: Joe Reedy - The Cincinnati Enquirer
Joe Reedy, of The Cincinnati Enquirer, reports Cincinnati Bengals RB Bernard Scott could provide a change-of-pace back for the team this year, as he is a shifty, speedy back. However, his ability to continue improving as a blocker will dictate how much playing time he receives this year.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Obviously, this is the key to playing time for any rookie RB. Scott will at least be used as a Jerious Norwood-like playmaking back early on in small doses, but if his blocking comes around, he could threaten to turn this into an RBBC if the Bengals don't put Cedric Benson in the position to grind down opposing defenses very often. Benson will not be of much use to the Bengals if they are not keeping games close, but Scott will be.
BUF - Meeting of the minds was to make owner more comfortable
Source: Chris Brown - BuffaloBills.com
Chris Brown, of BuffaloBills.com, reports Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson met with head coach Dick Jauron and assistant coaches Alex Van Pelt and Eric Studesville, as well as general manager Russ Brandon. Jauron made it sound like the meeting was had so Wilson could get a better feel for the new direction of the offense. Jauron also confirmed Van Pelt is the team's new offensive coordinator. Jauron felt like Wilson was comfortable with the changes the team made after the group met.
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The Bills certainly have an air of a franchise about to implode around them this year. Marshawn Lynch and Lee Evans are still talented enough to merit their reasonable ADP for players of their ability level, and the no-huddle offense could produce good fantasy numbers regardless of the W-L total, but this team could go south quickly.
CIN - TE Chase Coffman to see work in double-tight end sets
Source: Joe Reedy - The Cincinnati Enquirer
Joe Reedy, of The Cincinnati Enquirer, reports Cincinnati Bengals TE Chase Coffman has progressed more than any other player on the team during training camp. He will see time in two-tight end sets this season.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Coffman is purely a weapon in the receiving game, and a good one at that. Jared Cook has gotten a lot of attention for his quick progress in his first camp, but it sounds like Coffman is also coming along well. Coffman has a better QB, and he's in the better passing game, but he has much more talented targets to leapfrog in the pecking order before he can make a big fantasy impact, so we still think Cook is the rookie TE to target in redraft leagues, but Coffman is looking better and better in dynasty leagues.
DEN - WR Brandon Marshall takes part in practice Sunday
Source: Peter King - CNN/SI
Peter King, of CNN/SI, reports Denver Broncos WR Brandon Marshall took part in practice with the team Sunday, Sept. 6.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
If Marshall plays a significant amount of time in the season opener and makes a big contribution, we'll have to say that Josh McDaniels won this round - but that's no guarantee that we won't have round two (or is it three? four?) sometime soon.
TEN - RB LenDale White not afraid to give bulletin board material
Source: Gary Estwick - The Tennessean
Gary Estwick, of The Tennessean, reports Tennessee Titans RB LenDale White isn't ruling out another stomping of a Terrible Towel this week. 'If it happens to be there, I'm going to stomp all over that (pause), man,' White said. 'If there's a towel in the stands, I will stomp on it. I don't care who gets mad. ... If they throw a towel at me, I'm going to kick it and stomp all over it. If they don't want their towel stomped on, keep it out my face.'
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We're wondering if a little bit of that weight White lost in the offseason came from his brain. The Steelers usually don't need extra motivation, but just in case, they have it now.
GB - RB Ryan Grant worked hard during the offseason
Source: Lori Nickel - The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Lori Nickel, of The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, reports Green Bay Packers RB Ryan Grant would spend most days during the offseason running up and down the steps of Lambeau Field for 45 minutes. Grant said he needed to work on his explosion this year. 'Because the explosion between the first 7 yards to 10 yards in our offense is what makes the big plays,' Grant noted. Grant said the team's offensive line has also improved from the mental errors they made a year ago, which should help him. Grant also worked with sleds and drill work, as he tried to improve his ability to stop, make a cut and switch direction.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Ryan Grant refuses to get off to a slow start this season. He's worked to regain his burst, as last year his YPC dipped to 3.9 from 5.1 in 2007. Grant also wants to have longer runs, and believes getting to the second level quicker will help him do just that.
CHI - CB Charles Tillman 50-50 to play Sunday night
Source: Brad Biggs - the Chicago Sun-Times
Brad Biggs, of the Chicago Sun-Times, reports that CB Charles Tillman said he is 50-50 to play Sunday night in the season opener against the Packers after undergoing back surgery during training camp.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
The Bears need all the help they can get to stop the Packers prolific passing attack. Donald Driver belongs in your lineup if it looks like Tillman won't go on Sunday.
MIN - HC Childress to name backup quarterback on Sunday
Source: Judd Zulgad - the Minneapolis Star-Tribune
Judd Zulgad, from the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, reports Brad Childress said he will declare his second and third QBs on Sunday.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Sage Rosenfels has the big free agent contract, and his skill set is similar to that of starter Brett Favre, so our money's on Captain Turnover to win the #2 job. Tarvaris Jackson looked good in the preseason, but seems to be the odd man out ever since Favre-apalooza came to town.
WAS - Zorn not ready to name starting receiver opposite Moss
Source: Jason Reid - the Washington Post
Jason Reid, of the Washington Post, reports that Redskins head coach Jim Zorn is not ready to name the starting wide receivers for the season opener against the Giants.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
We know that Santana Moss will be one, but the other is up in the air. Devin Thomas had the inside track early in training camp, but he soon yielded to Malcolm Kelly. Neither second-year player shined in camp or the preseason, so the team could turn back to Antwaan Randle-el, who they would probably prefer to put in the slot, but they can't until Kelly or Thomas improve their level of play.
WAS - Team is committed to Betts as third-down back
Source: Jason Reid - the Washington Post
Jason Reid, from the Washington Post, reports Redskins coaches are committed to Ladell Betts as the primary third-down back, at least to start the season, and Clinton Portis is expected to maintain a heavy workload.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Clinton Portis isn't going to catch as many passes as in past seasons, and fantasy owners need to realize this. Betts will help keep Portis fresh, but by the end of the season (fantasy playoffs) there is a good chance that Portis will be hurt once again. If Ladell Betts were to get into the lineup as the starter he could be an every week fantasy starter, and a top 15 fantasy running back. Portis owners had better be have Betts handcuffed to him in case of emergency.
NO - DE Will Smith, DE Charles Grant to play week 1 unless league says otherwise
Source: Associated Press
The Associated Press reports that Saints head coach Sean Payton is preparing for the season opener with Detroit expecting DEs Will Smith and Charles Grant to start unless the team hears from the league about the enforcement of their four-game suspensions for taking the over-the-counter weight loss supplement, StarCaps. "We're waiting to hear from the league," Payton said. "Right now we're proceeding with the idea that those two players are playing. Generally, [the NFL is] mindful of the preparation time it takes to bring in players to replace them," Payton said. "I don't anticipate that being an issue."
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The Saints are already heavy favorites to win the season opener, but Matthew Stafford's first NFL regular season start could be a lot more brutal if the Saints have their talented DE combo available.
NE - Patriots cut WR Greg Lewis
Source: Nationalfootballpost.com
The National Football Post is reporting the New England Patriots cut veteran wide receiver Greg Lewis today, according to a league source. And the Patriots used his roster spot to claim safety Bret Lockett off waivers from the Cleveland Browns.
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Greg Lewis came over from the Philadelphia Eagles this offseason, and reportedly was surprised by this news. He's always been a below average player in our eyes, but teams like Baltimore or St. Louis may be interested in the veteran receiver.
CAR - GM says RB claim has no connection to RB Jonathan Stewart's condition
Source: Darin Gantt - the Rock Hill Herald
Darin Gantt, of the Rock Hill Herald, reports that Panthers GM Marty Hurney said the team's claim of RB Tyrell Sutton had nothing to do with a setback or problem for RB Jonathan Stewart. "The facts are, Jonathan obviously has not had a lot of work, but he plans to get back into it soon," Hurney said. "It's more of a sign that we liked the player (Sutton), and we wanted to keep our strength strong. I don't necessarily think there's a connection."
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We wish we could believe Hurney, but Stewart hasn't practiced in almost a month. Sutton is a good all-around back, even if he lacks size and explosion. All you need to gain yards behind Carolina's OL of behemoths is competence, and Sutton has it.
NE - RB Sammy Morris ready to go for season opener
Source: Christopher L. Gasper - the Boston Globe
Christopher L. Gasper, of the Boston Globe, reports that RB Sammy Morris has pronounced himself ready for the season opener against the Bills, and added that he could have played in last Thursday's preseason finale if it had been a regular season game. "I've been doing this a while. My body feels in good shape, so I'll go from there," said Morris.
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We still think Fred Taylor is the Patriots RB to start in the season opener.
BAL - Team talking to RB Lorenzo Neal, Jets also contacted FB
Source: Allen Wilson - the Carroll County Times
Allen Wilson, of the Carroll County Times, reports that FB Lorenzo Neal has been in contact with Baltimore GM Ozzie Newsome, offensive coordinator Cam Cameron, and New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan about playing for their teams this season. "I want to taste that dream one more time," Neal said. "I just want to go to that team that gives me the best chance to get to the Super Bowl. I know the men in Baltimore and John Harbaugh and Ozzie. They know what I can do as far as being a leader with my toughness and blocking."
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A Neal signing after week 1 (as a vested veteran, his whole salary would be guaranteed if he is signed before week 2) would give Le'Ron McClain's value a big boost, as he would be relieved of lead blocking duties. It would also probably give the Ravens running game a boost in general, as Neal is one of the best in the history of the league at his position, while McClain is still a hybird FB/RB, and not the lead blocker Neal is, even at Neal's advanced age.
OAK - WR Chaz Schilens misses practice Monday
Source: Jerry McDonald - ANG Newspapers
Jerry McDonald, of ANG Newspapers, reports Oakland Raiders WR Chaz Schilens (foot) did not participate in practice Monday, Sept. 7.
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Schilens is unlikely to play in the season opener against the Chargers, but his return should come within the next 2-3 weeks, making him a nice late-round pick in PPR leagues.
OAK - RB Justin Fargas misses practice Monday
Source: Jerry McDonald - ANG Newspapers
Jerry McDonald, of ANG Newspapers, reports Oakland Raiders RB Justin Fargas (hamstring) did not participate in practice Monday, Sept. 7.
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Raiders head coach Tom Cable has not announced a starting running back, but everyone under the sun knows that it's going to be second-year back Darren McFadden. Fargas should now be the number three running back behind McFadden and Michael Bush.
GB - WR Greg Jennings cleared to play Week 1
Source: Greg A. Bedard - the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Greg A. Bedard, of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, reports Green Bay Packers WR Greg Jennings (concussion) has been cleared to play in Week 1.
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Jennings did acknowledge that he was knocked out cold and the next 20 minutes are not really in his memory. Keep this in mind if Jennings suffers another concussion this season.
HOU - QB Rex Grossman closes the gap in competition
Source: Drew Dougherty - HoustonTexans.com
Drew Dougherty, of HoustonTexans.com, reports Houston Texans QB Rex Grossman has closed the gap on QB Dan Orlovsky for the team's No. 2 quarterback duties. Grossman led the Texans on five scoring drives during the preseason and was 9-of-16 for 197 yards passing.
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As crazy as it sounds, Grossman was actually more impressive than Orlovsky when the backups got to play for Chicago and Detroit last year. The chances of seeing Grossman play this year are going up, which is great for the entertainment side of watching football.
IND - S Bob Sanders to return in 5-6 weeks
Source:
The Associated Press reports that the Colts hope to see S Bob Sanders return by week 5 or 6 of the regular season. "The biggest thing was that we felt he [Sanders] was going to be back inside that five- or six-week window," head coach Jim Caldwell said Monday. "He's making progress, he's coming along."
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Melvin Bullitt rockets up to a very startable DB in Sanders absence. He could easily be one of the standout fantasy DBs of the first month of the season based on his play in Sanders absence last year. Put him at the top of your waiver claims if he went undrafted in your IDP league.
OAK - DE Richard Seymour deal on hold?
Source: Bill Williamson - ESPN.com
Bill Williamson, of ESPN.com, reports that something is hanging up the Richard Seymour to the Raiders trade, at least according to Raiders head coach Tom Cable. "We have attempted to make a deal. There are some issues still between him and the Patriots that are being worked out. Hoping that will be resolved as quickly as possible. We know that the player wants to be here, but we have no control really over those issues. That's really all I'm going to talk about it for now." Williamson speculates that Seymour might be getting used to the idea of playing for Oakland. He still needs to pass a physical to complete the deal.
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We would be also hesitant to go from the Patriots to the Raiders.
SD - OLB Shawne Merriman's clock ticking with team?
Source: Kevin Acee - the San Diego Union-Tribune
Kevin Acee, of the San Diego Union-Tribune, reports that he still believes that LB Shawne Merriman will not be with the team after his contract expires at the end of the year (or in 2011, depending on whether 2010 is an uncapped year), but after Merriman's latest incident, GM A.J. Smith could look to deal him before that happens.
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The writing was on the wall when the team took Larry English in the first round this year. The team is in a championship window, so it's hard to picture them trading Merriman unless he isn't performing at his pre-knee surgery level of play.
OAK - Cable says DE Richard Seymour working out issues with NE
Source: David White - the San Francisco Chronicle
David White, of the San Francisco Chronicle, reports Oakland Raiders head coach Tom Cable said the trade for DE Richard Seymour is not done yet because Seymour is working out some issues with the New England Patriots. Cable said he has talked with Seymour and that Seymour wants to play for the Raiders. Cable hopes Seymour joins the team as soon as possible.
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Seymour will start at right defensive end and should help bolster the Raiders pathetic run defense. On third-downs the Raiders plan to move Seymour to defensive tackle. This would allow second-year player Trevor Scott to once again be a force as a pass rushing specialist. Last season, Scott was the rookie sack leader in the NFL.
That'll do it for today, Folks.
Thanks for reading and we'll see you tomorrow with the update. Remember, if you haven't signed up yet for our Premium Footballguys subscription so you can get our content all season long, all you have to do is click here.
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