Footballguys Daily Email - Volume 10, Issue 88 (Thursday, July 16th)
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Hi Folks,
Welcome to Friday. Training Camps are still a little bit away but we are in two a day mode here. For the folks that have signed up for our Premium Subscription, we've unleashed a mountain of new content today. With plenty more to come. Plus all the News and Notes you need so let's get to it.
J
SITE NEWS
A.
New Projections Updated
Don't go into a draft with stale projections. At Footballguys, one of the biggest edges we offer our subscribers are up to the minute projections. When news breaks and situations change, we adjust our stat projections accordingly. Here are our latest numbers.
B.
Average Draft Position
Don't just know where YOU want to draft a player. Know where others owners around the country are drafting that player. Our Average Draft Position (ADP) lists are the best available for giving a true picture of what the consensus thinking is on a player.
C.
The 2009 Rookie Scouting Portfolio
Our Matt Waldman produces an enormous Portfolio every year as he scouts the rookies. For folks that have subscribed to the Premium service, they'll have access here to all 624 pages worth.
D.
New Draft Dominator
With new projections, that means a new Draft Dominator is out. Just in time for the weekend.
E.
New VBD Excel App
With new projections, that means a new VBD Excel App is out for you die hard Excel fans.
F.
New Projections Dominator App
With new projections, that means a new Projections Dominator App so you can tweak and manipulate our projections to do exactly what YOU want to do with them.
G.
New Rankings
Don't settle for Expert Rankings that were turned in two months ago. Our Experts Rankings page is continually updated based on all the latest news.
H.
163 Cheatsheets
Don't have time to enter your data into the Draft Dominator to get custom cheatsheets? No worries as we do the work for you creating 163 different league scenarios and generating cheatsheets for each one. There's bound to be a set that's close to your league.
I.
Faceoff - WR Donnie Avery, St. Louis Rams
For our premium subscribers, the Footballguys staff debates STL WR Donnie Avery.
J.
Faceoff - RB Cedric Benson, Cincinnati Bengals
For our Premium Subscribers, the Footballguys staff debates CIN RB Cedric Benson.
K.
Faceoff - WR Randy Moss, New England Patriots
For our Premium Subscribers, the Footballguys Staff debate NE WR Randy Moss.
L.
Faceoff - WR Eddie Royal, Denver Broncos
For our Premium Subscribers, the Footballguys Staff debate DEN WR Eddie Royal.
M.
Faceoff - WR Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis Colts
For our Premium Subscribers, the Footballguys Staff debate IND WR Reggie Wayne.
N.
Faceoff - Who is the Ravens' top TE?
For our Premium Subscribers, the Footballguys Staff debate Who is the Ravens' top TE?
O.
Faceoff - S Oshiomogho Atogwe, St. Louis Rams
For our premium subscribers, the Footballguys staff debates STL S Oshiomogho Atogwe.
P.
Faceoff - WR Donald Driver, Green Bay Packers
For our Premium Subscribers, the Footballguys staff debates GB WR Donald Driver.
Q.
Faceoff - ILB DQwell Jackson, Cleveland Browns
For our Premium Subscribers, the Footballguys staff debates CLE ILB DQwell Jackson.
R.
Faceoff - DE Robert Mathis, Indianapolis Colts
For our Premium Subscribers, the Footballguys staff debates IND DE Robert Mathis.
S.
Faceoff - ILB Jerod Mayo, New England Patriots
For our Premium Subscribers, the Footballguys Staff debate NE ILB Jerod Mayo.
T.
Faceoff - ILB Jonathan Vilma, New Orleans Saints
For our Premium Subscribers, the Footballguys Staff debate NO ILB Jonathan Vilma.
U.
Faceoff - S Adrian Wilson, Arizona Cardinals
For our Premium Subscribers, the Footballguys Staff debate ARZ S Adrian Wilson.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1. ATL - OC Mularkey wants to reduce RB Michael Turner's workload2. CHI - RB Matt Forte and Kevin Jones on the field at the same time?
3. DEN - WR Brandon Marshall says he'll be at training camp
4. NFL - WR Matt Jones training hard as he looks for second chance
5. DET - No worries when it comes to WR Calvin Johnson
6. MIN - Former WR Cris Carter believes Favre addition would affect chemistry
7. KC - QB Matt Cassel doesn't need WR Randy Moss
8. GB - QB Aaron Rodgers talks about facing QB Brett Favre
9. CHI - GB - Packers WR Donald Driver does not believe Bears have receiving corps to compete
10. BAL - Kicking competition expected to last through camp
11. NFL - Koren Robinson staying in shape waiting for teams to call
12. SEA - Fans excited about WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh
13. NFL - WR Larry Fitzgerald hosting WR camp
14. CLE - WR Braylon Edwards vows to bounce back
15. DAL - Fans can thank John Mayer for Romo/Simpson breakup
ATL - OC Mularkey wants to reduce RB Michael Turner's workload
Source: John Clayton, ESPN.com
John Clayton, of ESPN.com, reports that Atlanta offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey wants to reduce Michael Turner's workload. "You can't run 370 times a season," Mularkey said. "If Michael does that, he's going to wear out over time."
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Use this info to try to drive Turner's draft position down. Even if his rushing yards come down to a more reasonable 1500, he'll still be the first option in the red zone and likely score 15+ touchdowns. If Matt Ryan takes the step in his second year that some expect, Turner could even score 20 TDs.
CHI - RB Matt Forte and Kevin Jones on the field at the same time?
Source: Larry Mayer, ChicagoBears.com
Larry Mayer, from ChicagoBears.com, reports there's always a chance that both Matt Forte and Kevin Jones could line up in the backfield at the same time, especially given Forte's versatility and ability to line up in the backfield, in the slot or split out wide as a receiver. The advantage would be that the defense wouldn't know who was getting the ball, while the disadvantage would be that one of the tailbacks would have to block like a fullback.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Kevin Jones hasn't been much of a blocker during his pro career, but he would put forth great effort if called upon. Last season when Jones wasn't playing very much he went to head coach Lovie and asked for more playing time then he became a solid special teams player. Mayer believes that it's more likely we'll see Greg Olsen line up as a "pseudo fullback" and catch some passes out of the backfield.
DEN - WR Brandon Marshall says he'll be at training camp
Source: Mike Florio, Profootballtalk.com
Mike Florio, of profootballtalk.com, reports that Denver WR Brandon Marshall said he'd be at training camp in an interview at the ESPYs on July 15. "Right now I'm obligated, I'm under contract. . . . It's $14,000 a day if i miss," Marshall said. "I'm not stupid. So I will be there."
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
A bit of reassurance for Marshall owners, but we have a feeling we haven't seen the end of this drama. We still wouldn't take him higher than WR10. Our Cecil Lammey will be out at training camp every day, so we'll have all the latest right here.
NFL - WR Matt Jones training hard as he looks for second chance
Source: Michael C. Wright, The Florida Times-Union
Michael C. Wright, of The Florida Times-Union, reports free-agent WR Matt Jones (Jaguars) has spent more than $15,000 to train in seclusion with a team of specialists while at IMG Academies. Jones' agent, Dave Butz, said he has spoken with several teams about possible interest in Jones, but nothing appears imminent. Butz said, "We've had dialogue with multiple teams. I think [his prospects for catching on with a new team] are excellent. We're excited now to find the best fit for Matt. He's scot-free as far as punishment and ready to have a great year."
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
We think Jones is very undervalued in dynasty leagues right now. He emerged as a #1 wide receiver for the Jags last year, and the transgression that caused the team to release him was minor compared a lot of things that players have done (and still remained with the team). Soon enough, he will sign with a team in need of a wide receiver and he won't come nearly as cheap in deep leagues.
DET - No worries when it comes to WR Calvin Johnson
Source: Terry Foster, The Detroit News
Terry Foster, of The Detroit News, reports the Detroit Lions don't have any worries when it comes to WR Calvin Johnson, other than his possibly spending too much time in the weight room. Head coach Jim Schwartz said Johnson doesn't create any headaches for him. 'I don't have fires I have to put out for Calvin. That gives me more time to deal with more important things,' Schwartz said. Johnson did admit he would have no problem asking for the football if he felt neglected in the offense. However, Johnson said he would keep it low key.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
When you consider the way the rest of the team playing last year, especially Johnson's QBs, and the poor supporting cast at WR to take the heat off of him, it's astounding that Johnson was still a fantasy stud last year. If the team improves, or Matthew Stafford is ready for prime time early in his career, Johnson could be knocking on Larry Fitzgerald's door to be the #1 overall fantasy WR very soon.
MIN - Former WR Cris Carter believes Favre addition would affect chemistry
Source: Sean Jensen, The St. Paul Pioneer Press
Sean Jensen, of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, reports former NFL WR Cris Carter said he believes that if the Minnesota Vikings sign free-agent QB Brett Favre (Jets), it could affect their chemistry because head coach Brad Childress will have to talk with QBs Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels after they were told they would compete for the starting job. 'The bad thing is, what is the backlash from no communication with the other kids? Because ultimately, you have to tell these kids something. You're setting yourself up where they're going to have a very uncomfortable time, at the first day of camp, because Tarvaris don't know nothing and Sage don't know nothing. That right there will be the hurdle for them to overcome, internally,' Carter said.
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Carter is wise. Favre has a field of gravity that throws off the delicate balance a team has spent years establishing. What makes it worse is that Favre isn't even a lock to play well enough to justify that risk and the large salary he will command. We still wonder what the Vikings are thinking here.
KC - QB Matt Cassel doesn't need WR Randy Moss
Source: C.E. Wendler, WarPaintIllustrated.com
C.E. Wendler, from WarPaintIllustrated.com, thinks there are certain individuals who would have you believe Matt Cassel is a rich man today because he played with Randy Moss last season. The truth is that Cassel has earned a contract worth $63 million based on his own merits, and not because he rode anyone's coattails.
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Matt Cassel IS a rich man today because he played with Randy Moss last season. Yes, he played better as the season went on but the fact of the matter is he was surrounded by perhaps the best WR duo in the league with Moss and Wes Welker. It's hard to believe that one year's worth of starting in the NFL is worth that kind of jack. We hope it works out for Cassel in K.C. but don't be surprised when fans are calling for Tyler Thigpen by the midway point in the season.
GB - QB Aaron Rodgers talks about facing QB Brett Favre
Source: Gregg Rosenthal, ProFootballTalk.com
Gregg Rosenthal, from ProFootballTalk.com, reports Rodgers showed up to the ESPY's Wednesday likely looking forward to an exciting evening filled watching people win awards they could care less about winning. Once he got to the "red carpet," Rodgers was peppered exclusively with Favre questions. To his credit, he answered every one with a smile. On the inevitable Favre vs. Rodgers storylines: "I know that will be the big story. You guys have a job to do. That probably sells a few more papers than the usual matchup. We'll try to stay focused that week if that does happen."
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Aaron Rodgers knows that even when Brett Favre retires he will still have to field questions about the "wrangler tough" gunslinger. It shows great character that Rodgers is able to field these repetitive questions calmly without going Ryan Leaf on a reporter.
CHI - GB - Packers WR Donald Driver does not believe Bears have receiving corps to compete
Source: Bob Wolfley, The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Bob Wolfley, of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, reports Green Bay Packers WR Donald Driver said during a radio interview that the only thing the Bears are missing is a receiving corps that can make plays down the field. 'They have the running back, they have the offensive line and they have a great defense. But you're going to have to need receivers to make plays down the field, and they don't have that right now,' Driver said.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Sounds like bulletin board material for Earl Bennett and Devin Hester.
BAL - Kicking competition expected to last through camp
Source: Mike Duffy, BaltimoreRavens.com
Mike Duffy, of BaltimoreRavens.com, reports the competition between Baltimore Ravens PKs Steven Hauschka and Graham Gano likely will last until the final preseason game.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Whomever wins won't exactly be secure in the job until they string together a few good weeks in the regular season, so we would just stay away from this situation altogether in your draft.
NFL - Koren Robinson staying in shape waiting for teams to call
Source: John Clayton, ESPN.com
John Clayton, from ESPN, notes Robinson is staying in shape and waiting for a team to call. Injuries in Seattle or Green Bay could put his name on speed dial. I don't think it will take a boatload of injuries, but it will take a few to open some doors for Robinson. He did well in his role for Seattle last year. The biggest thing is that he appears to have cleaned up many of off-the-field problems.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Robinson deserves another shot in the NFL, but was his production last year too little too late? He certainly won't ever be the player that he could've been when he came out of NC State (where he broke a lot of Torry Holt's records), but Robinson could go to a WR depleted team like Baltimore and contribute right away.
SEA - Fans excited about WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh
Source: Danny O'Neil, The Seattle Times
Danny O'Neil, from the Seattle Times, reports that Seahawks fans are really excited about the prospects of WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh in the upcoming season.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Seahawks fans should be excited about Houshmandzadeh coming to Seattle. Not since the days of Darrell Jackson has Matt Hasselbeck had a legitimate number one wide receiver to throw to. With tight end John Carlson doing his damage underneath, and rookie Deon Butler wowing from the slot, it means that defenses won't be able to solely concentrate on Housh when the Seahawks are passing the ball. His current ADP is WR15 and we anticipate that he'll have around 80 receptions for near 1,000 yards and 6-8 TDs in 2009.
NFL - WR Larry Fitzgerald hosting WR camp
Source: Jim Trotter, SI.com
Jim Trotter, of SI.com, reports Arizona Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald is hosting a wide receiver camp in Minnesota and has invited several other NFL players to participate in the camp, which has had former NFL WRs Jerry Rice and Cris Carter as instructors. Among the wide receivers that have been participating are Denver Broncos WR Brandon Marshall, Buffalo Bills WR Lee Evans, Green Bay Packers WR Greg Jennings, Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Michael Clayton, Minnesota Vikings WR Sidney Rice and Cleveland Browns WR Brian Robiskie. Washington Redskins CB DeAngelo Hall, New Orleans Saints CB Malcolm Jenkins, Pittsburgh Steelers TE Matt Spaeth, Arizona Cardinals TE Dominique Byrd and St. Louis Rams LB James Laurinaitis also are attending the camp. Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo may attend the camp next week.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Fitzgerald, Jennings, Marshall, and Evans are some of the best wide receivers in the game today so it's nice to see them competing against each other in order to get better. With Jerry Rice and Cris Carter giving pointers the young wideouts can only improve their games. It will be interesting to see if guys like Michael Clayton or Sidney Rice can become consistent receivers in the NFL because of this "All Star" camp they're attending.
CLE - WR Braylon Edwards vows to bounce back
Source: Zac Jackson, ClevelandBrowns.com
Zac Jackson, of ClevelandBrowns.com, reports Cleveland Browns WR Braylon Edwards has vowed to bounce back in 2009 after having a poor year in 2008
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
He said his mind is right this spring and he figures to be the top big-play target amongst the team's wide receivers. In order for Edwards to bounce back he'll have to stop dropping the ball so much. Last season Edwards was 2nd in the league behind Brandon Marshall (18) with 14 drops on the year. He may have to get used to poorly thrown passes downfield if Brady Quinn is the starting quarterback. Quinn is known to be wildly inaccurate when throwing passes over 15 yards.
DAL - Fans can thank John Mayer for Romo/Simpson breakup
Source: Big News Network
Big News Network is reporting American singer Jessica Simpson was allegedly dumped by Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo after he found text messages from her ex-lover John Mayer on her cell phone.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
And with that let's hope John Mayer and Jessica Simpson's names never come up in a football story again.
That'll do it for today, Folks.
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Have a great Friday and we'll see you tomorrow with the update.
J