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| Foote practices | Monday 9/1, 11:56 PM CT |
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Larry Foote practiced Monday, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. It marked his first practice since injuring his knee in an August 23 preseason game. He expects to play in Week 1, and said, "I took that brace off, so it felt good. The next step is with the pounding and see how my knee reacts to that. But for the most part, it feels good."
Our View: This is encouraging news for Foote, as he cannot afford to miss a game with Lawrence Timmons pushing him for playing time at inside linebacker. |
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| Branch misses Monday's practice | Monday 9/1, 11:25 PM CT |
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Alan Branch missed Monday's practice as he continues to recover from a sprained ankle, according to the East Valley Tribune.
Our View: His playing status for the opener against the 49ers could depend on his ability to start practicing Wednesday.
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| Adams named to practice squad | Monday 9/1, 11:21 PM CT |
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Michael Adams has been named to the Cardinals' practice squad, according to the East Valley Tribune. Defensive end Jason Banks, defensive tackle Keilen Dykes, receiver Lance Long, center Pat Ross, cornerback Wilrey Fontenot, receiver Onrea Jones, and center Anthony Oakley have been added to the practice squad as well.
Our View: The second-year pro out of Louisiana-Lafayette is a good athlete, but is limited by his lack of size (5-8 180 pounds). |
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| Harrington still free agent? | Monday 9/1, 11:09 PM CT |
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Joey Harrington may still be a free agent and the news circulating that he agreed to terms with Baltimore may not be correct, according to ProFootballTalk.com.
Our View: Harrington reportedly still has a visit scheduled for Tuesday with another team. |
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| Dolphins claim Smith | Monday 9/1, 10:58 PM CT |
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The Dolphins have claimed linebacker Tyson Smith off waivers from the Cowboys, according to the Palm Beach Post.
Our View: Smith has been added to the practice squad, and won't likely see action with Miami this season. |
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| Fisher likes Williams' potential | Monday 9/1, 10:49 PM CT |
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Coach Jeff Fisher commented that he likes second-year receiver Paul Williams' potential, according to the Tennessean. He flashed enough of that potential in training camp and the preseason to nail down a spot on the 53-man roster, and Fisher stated, "He's got the height, the weight, the speed, he can catch, he's got a lot ahead of him. He's closing the gap and he's done some nice things for us on special teams."
Our View: It sounds like Williams could gradually earn more playing time at receiver as the season progresses, and could potentially challenge for a favorable role in 2009, making him worth a look as a flier in larger keeper leagues. |
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| Piscitelli should play in opener | Monday 9/1, 10:42 PM CT |
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Sabby Piscitelli participated in Sunday's brief morning walkthrough and should be ready to play in the opener against the Saints, according to the St. Petersburg Times. He has been slowed by a knee injury.
Our View: Coach Jon Gruden has been pleased with his range and potential to be a play-maker, and could push for playing time at safety this season if healthy. |
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| Marshall sets lofty goals | Monday 9/1, 10:30 PM CT |
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Brandon Marshall has set lofty goals for 2008, according to CBS4Denver.com. Marshall wants to catch 140 passes this season, and will only have 15 games to reach his goal. Marshall said he is going to try his hardest to stay mentally and physically in the game while he serves his one game suspension.
Our View: Marshall reached a season-best 102 receptions in 2007, and personally believes he can shatter that mark in 2008. The most receptions ever racked up in a single season is 143, set by Marvin Harrison back in 2002 with Indianapolis. |
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| Mare is No. 1 kicker in Seattle | Monday 9/1, 10:16 PM CT |
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Olindo Mare will start the season opener Sunday against the Bills, according to the Seattle Times. The team kept Brandon Coutu on the roster, and he did not miss a field goal attempt in the preseason, but the Seahawks opted to go with Mare for Week 1. Mare held an edge for the job as he gets better distance on his kickoffs, and he said, "I know it was good for me to have a guy like Brandon in camp. I'm sure experience has something to do with it, and I'm sure kickoffs had a lot to do with it."
Our View: the Seahawks will have to clear two spots on the roster next week when Rocky Bernard and Jordan Babineaux are eligible to return from suspension, and Coutu could be expendable. Mare merits fantasy consideration as a No. 2 kicker. |
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| Branch does not participate | Monday 9/1, 10:09 PM CT |
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Deion Branch did not participate in Monday's light workout (without pads), according to the Seattle Times. He is still recovering from ACL surgery.
Our View: The team does not have to release an injury report until Wednesday, but as of now his status in not encouraging for the opener against Buffalo. |
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| Boiman released by Eagles | Monday 9/1, 9:54 PM CT |
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Rocky Boiman has been released by the Eagles, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. The team claimed Torrance "Tank" Daniels off waivers from the Giants, and Boiman was viewed as expendable to make room on the roster.
Our View: Boiman was working as a backup at middle linebacker behind starter Stewart Bradley, and held no fantasy value prior to his release. |
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| Daniels claimed by Eagles | Monday 9/1, 9:51 PM CT |
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Torrance Daniels has been claimed off waivers by the Eagles, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. He was let go by the Giants. Linebacker Rocky Boiman has been released to make room on the roster.
Our View: He was a special teams contributor with the Giants last season, and had a key forced fumble at the start of the second half that led to a field goal in the Giants' wildcard playoff win over the Buccaneers. This is his second stint with the Eagles, as he was originally signed as an undrafted free agent in 2006.
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| Thomas remains out | Monday 9/1, 9:38 PM CT |
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Robert Thomas remains out with his kneecap injury, according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View: Thomas is the starting strongside linebacker and will be missed if he is unable to play in Week 1 against the rival Broncos, but he won't be missed by fantasy owners, as he only registered 62 tackles over 14 games with the club in 2007. |
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| Kelly still ailing | Monday 9/1, 9:31 PM CT |
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Tommy Kelly was hospitalized with flu-like symptoms last Thursday and is still not back to full-strength, according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View: Kelly has developed into a solid pro and is a key member of the Raiders' defensive line, but does not generate good enough numbers to consider him for IDP leagues. |
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| Gore excited about new season | Monday 9/1, 9:25 PM CT |
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Frank Gore is excited about the new season, and working in Mike Martz's offense, according to the SF Chronicle. Gore said, "I love it, man. I've got a great feeling about it." He no longer feels opposing defenses will stack the box to target him and he added, "You can't do that now. When we played Chicago (in preseason), you saw guys you never heard of getting open and making good plays. Our second group was going against their best defense and doing what they wanted to to them."
Our View: Gore is an excellent receiver out of the backfield, and has drawn comparisons to Marshall Faulk, who thrived and put up great numbers while under the direction of Martz in St. Louis. Gore looks to be headed for a career-year in 2008. |
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| Leisle cut by Giants | Monday 9/1, 9:13 PM CT |
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Rodney Leisle has been cut by the Giants one day after being told he made the team, according to the NY Post. He was let go to make room for Jerome McDougle on the roster.
Our View: Leisle was not going to see much action with the Giants this season, and only made 17 career tackles over three seasons with the Saints. |
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| Spach released | Monday 9/1, 9:03 PM CT |
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Stephen Spach has been released by the Patriots, according to the Boston Globe. The team signed cornerback Deltha O'Neal and parted ways with Spach to make room on the roster.
Our View: Spach could not hold on as the Patriots' No. 3 tight end. |
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| Lemon No. 2 in Jacksonville | Monday 9/1, 8:37 PM CT |
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Cleo Lemon has nailed down the No. 2 role at quarterback behind starter David Garrard in Jacksonville, according to the Florida Times-Union. The team only kept two quarterbacks on the 53-man roster.
Our View: Lemon won the job, but is merely adequate as a quarterback, and the Jaguars offense would likely struggle if David Garrard is forced to miss time due to an injury this season. |
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| Guzman waived | Monday 9/1, 8:30 PM CT |
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Ramon Guzman has been waived by the Colts, according to the Indianapolis Star. The team scooped up linebacker Buster Davis off waivers from the Lions, and Guzman was viewed as expendable to make room on the roster.
Our View: Guzman was not going to see much action in the Colts' rotation at linebacker, and held no fantasy value prior to today's move. |
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| Foxworth not on Redskins' radar | Monday 9/1, 8:23 PM CT |
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Domonique Foxworth is not on the Redskins' radar, according to the Washington Post. The Broncos intend to trade him.
Our View: Foxworth is a Baltimore native and went to Maryland University, but the Redskins are not interested, as was previously rumored. |
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| Wilson signed to practice squad | Monday 9/1, 8:17 PM CT |
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Travis Wilson has been signed to the Broncos' practice squad, according to the Denver Post. Wilson was recently waived by the Browns.
Our View: Wilson was unable to secure a roster spot with Cleveland, and is not likely to see action with the Broncos, barring injuries. |
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| Hasselbeck ready for Buffalo | Monday 9/1, 8:03 PM CT |
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Matt Hasselbeck returned to practice Monday and expects to start Sunday against the Bills, according to the AP. Hasselbeck participated in just his second full practice since injuring his back close to a month ago.
Our View: This is good news, but he will remain a risky fantasy option, especially when you consider the current state of the Seahawks' receiving corps. The Bills' defense will present a tough match-up as well. |
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| Jackson to audition for Raiders | Monday 9/1, 7:57 PM CT |
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Chad Jackson, who was released by the Patriots, is going to audition for the Raiders, according to ESPN.
Our View: The Raiders lack favorable depth at receiver beyond Javon Walker and Ronald Curry, and Jackson would have a chance to push for the No. 3 role. Ashley Lelie should be confined to the bottom of the depth chart. |
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| Anderson on Ravens' radar? | Monday 9/1, 7:49 PM CT |
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Willie Anderson is believed to be on the Ravens' radar, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. The Bears, Buccaneers, Rams, Chargers, and Giants have also shown interest.
Our View: Anderson would be a significant upgrade over Jared Gaither at left tackle, and would give the Ravens more depth and options to use Gaither on the right side. |
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| Lewis sits out practice | Monday 9/1, 7:41 PM CT |
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Jamal Lewis sat out Monday's practice, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Our View: He is expected to try to play Sunday against Dallas, but the team wants to give his ailing hamstring a few more days to heal. |
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| Jones practices | Monday 9/1, 7:37 PM CT |
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Sean Jones practiced on a limited basis Monday, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. He has been nursing a knee injury.
Our View: We will keep you posted on the elite fantasy defensive back's status for Week 1 against Dallas. It is a good sign he practiced a little bit Monday. |
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| Edwards comments on chemistry | Monday 9/1, 7:30 PM CT |
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Braylon Edwards (foot), quarterback Derek Anderson (concussion), Donte Stallworth (hamstring), and Jamal Lewis (hamstring) all missed time during training camp and the preseason due to injuries, but Edwards does not believe the team's rhythm or chemistry will be compromised heading into the season opener against Dallas, according to the Akron Beacon Journal. Edwards said, "You're talking about a team that's been together for a year. We've done this all offseason; guys stayed and have been together in Cleveland when we could have been other places. We'll be fine. You're talking the pros. It doesn't take a lot of chemistry to do what Josh Cribbs does. He does all that on his own, anyway. We'll be fine when the game starts."
Our View: Edwards returned to practice Monday without any issues, and feels he is completely healthy following his recovery from a gash on his foot. |
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| Sims made Bengals' roster | Monday 9/1, 7:18 PM CT |
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Pat Sims hung on to make the Bengals' Week 1 roster, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. The team kept nine defensive linemen: Robert Geathers, Domata Peko, John Thornton, Antwan Odom, Jonathan Fanene, Frostee Rucker, Orien Harris, Jason Shirley, and Sims.
Our View: The rookie third-rounder has been diagnosed with turf toe but the injury did not prevent him from landing on the PUP list. He also showed up at the NFL combine out of shape, but the team feels he can develop into a solid pro and a potential starter down the line. |
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| Tomlinson excited about opener | Monday 9/1, 7:08 PM CT |
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LaDainian Tomlinson is excited to start the new season, according to the AP. He said, "I’m looking forward to it. It seems like it’s been a long preseason. I’m just excited at the kind of team we have and the opportunity we have, and doing something special. That’s more than anything. It’s not really about me so much. I used that as motivation to push me and the things I want to do individually. As far as the team, this is a special team, I feel like."
Our View: He should be excited as the Chargers are among the favorites to win the 2008 Super Bowl. Their first test of the season will come Sunday against the Panthers. |
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| Orton named team captain | Monday 9/1, 6:56 PM CT |
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Kyle Orton has been named a offensive team captain by the Bears, according to the Chicago Tribune. Olin Kreutz has been chosen as a captain as well.
Our View: The Bears named him a captain, but surely do not have great faith or confidence in him. As of now, Orton should not be on fantasy rosters in standard leagues. |
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| Rideau remains with Bears | Monday 9/1, 6:51 PM CT |
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Brandon Rideau has cleared waivers with Chicago and has been signed to the practice squad, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. He was surprised he was not scooped up by another club and said, "I really did think someone was going to claim me. I thought I proved enough. It's hard. Everybody is trying to cut their rosters down so picking up a guy is tough."
Our View: Rideau led the Bears, and the league, with three touchdown receptions in the preseason. The Bears are thin at receiver and should be pleased he is still available to them if needed. |
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| Clark returns to practice | Monday 9/1, 6:44 PM CT |
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Desmond Clark returned to practice Monday, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Clark sustained a sprained right knee in the second preseason game against the Seahawks and was wearing a brace.
Our View: Greg Olsen should make a bigger impact in his second pro season, but Clark could still be productive enough to consider as a No. 2 for larger leagues, as the Bears like to frequently employ two tight-end packages. We will keep you posted on Clark's status for Week 1 against the Colts. |
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| Hayden signed to practice squad | Monday 9/1, 6:35 PM CT |
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Sixth-round rookie Nick Hayden has cleared waivers and was signed to the practice squad, according to the Rock Hill Herald.
Our View: Seventh-round pick Geoff Schwartz also cleared waivers and joined the practice squad, allowing the Panthers to retain their entire 2008 draft class. Hayden is tough with a non-stop motor and the club admires his passion for the game. Keeping Hayden nearby was important, since they're still thin on the interior line, with just Gary Gibson and veteran Darwin Walker in reserve. |
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| Bell released | Monday 9/1, 6:27 PM CT |
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Tatum Bell has been released by the Lions following the acquisition of Rudi Johnson, according to ProFootballTalk.com.
Our View: The source believes the Texans may target Bell. Bell lost enthusiasm for football through training camp and the preseason, and his lack of dedication led to his release. |
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| Norwood to see action at receiver? | Monday 9/1, 6:23 PM CT |
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Michael Turner is going to handle the bulk of the workload at running back, but Jerious Norwood hopes that his role will develop into a situational third-down back, who will also show up as a wide receiver in some four- and five-receiver sets, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Norwood said, "Right now, I really don’t know my role. I’m just going to go out and take it easy, and wherever the coach wants to use me, I’ll be willing to do whatever it is they want me to do." He added, "We have a couple of formations where they’ll split me out wide and let me do my thing out wide. I feel that’s one of my greatest assets, going one-on-one in the open field."
Our View: Norwood is an essential "handcuff" for Turner, and could hold favorable value in PPR leagues as a backup. Norwood could also become more of a factor later in the season if Turner wears down in his first campaign as a starter. |
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| Feely gets tryout with Tampa Bay | Monday 9/1, 6:15 PM CT |
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Free agent kicker Jay Feely tried out with the Buccaneers Monday, according to the St. Petersburg Times.
Our View: The team is looking for insurance in case Matt Bryant struggles. Feely is familiar with Florida as he is a former member of the Dolphins. |
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| Gbaja-Biamila returns to practice | Monday 9/1, 6:10 PM CT |
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Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila has returned to practice Monday, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. He had been experiencing soreness in his surgically repaired knee.
Our View: This is encouraging news that he was able to practice, but it remains to be determined if he will ultimately be able to play in the opener against the Vikings. |
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| Jones misses practice | Monday 9/1, 6:06 PM CT |
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James Jones missed practice Monday due to his knee injury, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
Our View: If he is unable to play Week 1 against Minnesota, Ruvell Martin would move into Jones' No. 3 spot at receiver. |
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| Bennett feels good | Monday 9/1, 5:59 PM CT |
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Drew Bennett is feeling good and looking to get in a full week of practice, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. He has been dealing with a groin ailment.
Our View: We will keep you posted on his status for Week 1 against the Eagles, but it seems he will likely be ready to play. |
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| Hall confident for Week 1 | Monday 9/1, 5:53 PM CT |
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Dante Hall feels he will "definitely" suit up for Sunday's opener against Philadelphia, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. He missed the preseason finale due to an ankle ailment.
Our View: Hall is among the most dangerous return men in the NFL when healthy, and his fantasy stock is back on the rise in leagues that reward special teams and individual return yards. |
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| Pace feels good about opener | Monday 9/1, 5:49 PM CT |
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When asked about the possibility of playing Sunday against the Eagles, Orlando Pace replied, "I feel good about it," this according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Our View: His surgically repaired shoulder in not bothering him, and the Rams could be headed for a solid bounce-back campaign if he can stay healthy, especially with the addition of new O.C. Al Saunders directing the offense. |
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| S-Jax to see heavy workload Week 1 | Monday 9/1, 5:44 PM CT |
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Coach Scott Linehan intends to give Steven Jackson a heavy workload in Week 1 against the Eagles, despite missing all of the preseason due to his contract holdout, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Linehan said, "We’ll use him; we’re not going to inactivate him. He’s going to be ready to go. We’ve really worked the conditioning level. He’s had one grueling week and had a lot of good snaps today." When asked by a reporter to project the number of carries for Jackson in the opener, Linehan sarcastically replied, "fifty."
Our View: This is good news for fantasy owners who took Jackson high in round 1. |
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| Buccaneers sign lineman Lee | Monday 9/1, 5:32 PM CT |
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James Lee has been signed by the Buccaneers, according to the AP. He was released by the Browns Saturday. Defensive back Eugene Wilson was released to make room on the roster for Lee.
Our View: He will provide adequate depth and has the versatility to work at guard or tackle. |
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| Stanback is No. 3 WR Week 1 | Monday 9/1, 5:27 PM CT |
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Isaiah Stanback will play in Week 1 and serve as the No. 3 receiver, according to the Dallas Morning News. He had been dealing with a dislocated left shoulder.
Our View: He won't return kickoffs, but could be a deep sleeper for Week 1 against the Browns' secondary. |
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| Johnson inks with Lions | Monday 9/1, 5:22 PM CT |
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Rudi Johnson has landed in Detroit after being let go by Cincinnati, according to MLive.com. Terms of the deal are not yet known. Coach Rod Marinelli said, "I just had a chance to watch him in some drills (during a workout) and he's impressive. He's a big, thick guy who has great feet. I played against him over the years so I know he's a very physical back. He's a guy with a lot of talent and a lot of experience."
Our View: Johnson is expected to replace Tatum Bell as the primary backup to rookie starter Kevin Smith. Johnson should be "handcuffed" to Smith, and the team could be headed for a platoon at the position. |
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| Flacco to start opener | Monday 9/1, 5:17 PM CT |
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Joe Flacco will start in Week 1 against the Bengals, according to the Baltimore Sun.
Our View: He will start by default, as Troy Smith has been drained physically by a tonsil infection, and Kyle Boller is out with an injured shoulder. The Ravens added Joey Harrington, but the team does not want to throw him into battle without a firm grasp of their offense. Flacco should not be considered for fantasy lineups in his first career start. |
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| Leinart working hard | Monday 9/1, 5:11 PM CT |
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Matt Leinart is working hard after losing to Kurt Warner for the starting job at quarterback, according to the AP. Leinart said, "It was tough to take because we’re all competitors and we all want to play. But it did push me. It did make me a better quarterback and I’m going to keep on getting better. I know my opportunity will come sooner or later."
Our View: Warner won the starting gig but is 37-year's old and has not played a full 16-game slate since 2001 (with St. Louis), and it is only a matter of time before Leinart is back under center for the Cardinals. |
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| Kiwanuka excited to be back at DE | Monday 9/1, 5:01 PM CT |
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Mathias Kiwanuka is excited to be back at defensive end with the Giants, according to the AP. He experimented with working at outside linebacker, but has been moved back to his natural position due to the season-ending injury to Osi Umenyiora. He said, "I was never not a defensive end, I just played linebacker as well. Now I’m getting back into this on the first and second down, and getting the calls and the reads down. To be honest I am so excited about it that I will take any challenge that comes up."
Our View: He will work at right end with rising star Justin Tuck on the left side. Kiwanuka could prove to be a pleasant surprise this season for IDP leagues, and the Giants' pass rush could still be in good hands without Umenyiora. |
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| Taylor apologizes | Monday 9/1, 4:54 PM CT |
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Fred Taylor has apologized to team owner Wayne Weaver for his arrest on a disorderly conduct charge over the weekend, according to the AP. He said the whole incident was "very, very petty," and he added, "I’m not going to get into any details. It’s an awkward situation, but I really do, sincerely, from the bottom of my heart, want to apologize to the Weavers and this organization for this type of press. It’s never really good when it’s in the negative light."
Our View: Miami Beach Police spokesman Juan Sanchez said the police report for Taylor's arrest would be available Tuesday. Jaguars' coach Jack Del Rio wasn’t concerned with the situation, even though it was the club's 10th arrest in the last two years.
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| Hall holds off Kuhn | Monday 9/1, 4:50 PM CT |
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Korey Hall has held off John Kuhn for the starting job at fullback, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
Our View: Hall isn't expected to steal goal-line carries or be active in the passing game, and holds no fantasy value. |
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| Humphrey No. 2 TE | Monday 9/1, 4:45 PM CT |
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Tory Humphrey is listed as the No. 2 tight end ahead of rookie Jermichael Finley on the latest Packers' depth chart, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
Our View: Humphrey should see the field often in two tight end sets, but won't likely be productive enough to make him fantasy worthy. |
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| Hodge released | Monday 9/1, 4:40 PM CT |
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Abdul Hodge has been released by the Packers, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
Our View: Hodge enjoyed a solid career at the University of Iowa, but injuries spoiled his potential to make an impact in the NFL. The Packers are also deep at linebacker, which led to his release. |
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| Mason added to practice squad | Monday 9/1, 4:34 PM CT |
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Marcus Mason has been added to the Ravens' practice squad, according to the Baltimore Sun.
Our View: The rookie out of Youngstown State looked good in the preseason with the Redskins, but the team did not have a roster spot for him in a deep and talented backfield. Mason holds no fantasy value, but was a solid addition to the Ravens' practice squad. |
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| Pittman reaches injury settlement | Monday 9/1, 4:30 PM CT |
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David Pittman has reached an injury settlement with the Ravens and was waived Monday, according to the Baltimore Sun. He was placed on the season-ending IR due to an undisclosed injury.
Our View: Pittman was working for a backup role at cornerback and would not have held any fantasy value if he stayed healthy. |
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| Harrington joins Ravens | Monday 9/1, 4:25 PM CT |
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Joey Harrington has been signed by the Ravens, according to the Baltimore Sun. He was released by the Falcons Friday. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Our View: It remains to be seen if Harrington can learn the offense in time to play against the Bengals in Week 1. Harrington holds little value, but will help a Ravens' club that is in poor shape at the position. |
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| Anderson returns to practice | Monday 9/1, 4:16 PM CT |
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Derek Anderson has been nursing a mild concussion but returned to practice Monday, according to the AP. After stretching, Anderson sprinted over to the far side of the field and worked with the first-team offense during the initial phases of practice. Coach Romeo Crennel said, "The doctors need to see that he can handle the sunlight, which is pretty bright out today, that he can handle the verbiage of the offense, be able to handle the checks and do the things that a quarterback has to do. If he can do those things and doesn’t have any headaches afterwards then chances are they will let him go."
Our View: As long as he doesn't suffer any setbacks, he should be cleared to play Week 1 against Dallas. |
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| Muir claimed off waivers | Monday 9/1, 4:13 PM CT |
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Daniel Muir has been claimed off waivers by the Colts, according to the AP. The team waived Jamie Sliva to make room on the 53-man roster.
Our View: Muir was released by the Packers Saturday, and doesn't look to see much action in the Colts' rotation at defensive tackle. |
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| Davis joins Colts | Monday 9/1, 4:08 PM CT |
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Buster Davis has been claimed off waivers by the Colts, according to the AP.
Our View: Davis was competing for the No. 2 role at middle linebacker in Detroit, but was ultimately let go when rookie Jordan Dizon passed him on the depth chart. Davis will provide depth for Indianapolis with Tyjuan Hagler on the PUP list (torn pectoral muscle), but does not merit fantasy consideration in standard-sized IDP leagues. |
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| Sheppard displeased as backup | Monday 9/1, 4:04 PM CT |
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Lito Sheppard is displeased with being reduced to a backup role at cornerback, according to the AP. When asked why he isn't starting, Sheppard said, "That’s a good question. You should ask that right now. Given the reasons supposedly about my injuries and not being able to stay on the field, with that not being an issue, what is the issue?"
Our View: Sheppard is a two-time Pro Bowler, and still has the ability to shut down receivers, but was reduced to a backup role following the signing of Asante Samuel. Sheppard wanted to be traded, but the team did not satisfy his wish. |
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| Lelie signed by Raiders | Monday 9/1, 3:36 PM CT |
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Wide receiver Ashley Lelie, recently cut by the 49ers, has signed a one-year deal with the Oakland Raiders, according to the Contra Costa Times.
Our View: Lelie will go to Oakland and underachieve for the Raiders, too. Fantasy owners know by now to stay away from him. |
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| Porter practices | Monday 9/1, 3:27 PM CT |
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Jaguars wide receiver Jerry Porter practiced for the first time Monday since he had hamstring surgery in July, according to Jaguars.com.
Our View: It is not known whether or not Porter will play yet, but odds are probably against it. He remains someone who can contribute to the depth of a fantasy football roster, but nothing beyond that. |
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| Ryan released | Monday 9/1, 3:21 PM CT |
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The Green Bay Packers have released punter Jon Ryan, according to Packers.com. The team signed punter Derrick Frost earlier in the day.
Our View: This is somewhat of a surprise as Ryan had a very solid season for the Packers last season, but he's sure to catch on somewhere. |
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| Roethlisberger voted captain | Monday 9/1, 2:59 PM CT |
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Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, wide receiver Hines Ward, kicker Jeff Reed and linebacker James Farrior were named team captains of the Steelers on Monday, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
Our View: There aren't many teams where the starting quarterback is not one of the captains, so this should not be a shock to anyone. |
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| Porter says he is ready to play | Monday 9/1, 2:56 PM CT |
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Dolphins linebacker Joey Porter said his back was feeling good, and that he will be ready to play Week 1, according to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
Our View: Porter had just 5.5 sacks last season, along with 66 tackles. The team's D/ST unit should not be used in fantasy leagues, and Porter's value in IDP leagues is a depth player, at best. |
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| Foxworth will be traded | Monday 9/1, 2:51 PM CT |
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Denver cornerback Domonique Foxworth was sent home by the team, as they informed him he will be traded, according to ESPN.com. "They are being classy about it. I'm not upset about it at all," Foxworth said.
Our View: The website listed the interested teams as the Patriots, Redskins, Saints, Rams and Browns. Foxworth was the team's nickel back behind starters Dre Bly and Champ Bailey. |
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| Harrington among those working out for Ravens | Monday 9/1, 2:48 PM CT |
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Not only did the Baltimore Ravens work out quarterback Chris Simms, but they also brought in Todd Bouman and Joey Harrington for work outs as well, according to the National Football Post.
Our View: The web site reports that Bouman was good, and Simms was the least impressive. Baltimore is in dire need of a quarterback, as their current threesome of Joe Flacco, Troy Smith and Kyle Boller each have issues. |
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| Stills signed by Rams | Monday 9/1, 2:45 PM CT |
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The St. Louis Rams have signed standout special teams performer Gary Stills, who was released earlier in the week by the Baltimore Ravens, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Our View: The Rams special teams have been miserable for the past few years, so any addition to help the unit would be welcome. |
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| Keith may head to CFL | Monday 9/1, 2:40 PM CT |
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After being cut by the Colts, running back Kenton Keith stated he may be interested in going to the Canadian Football League, where he had previously had success, according to TSN.com.
Our View: Keith had two seasons of 1,000 yards rushing in the CFL, which is a much bigger deal in that league than the NFL because it is more dependent on the pass because they have just three downs on offense. |
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| Ravens add kicker | Monday 9/1, 2:29 PM CT |
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The Baltimore Ravens claimed kicker Steven Hauschka off of waivers from the Minnesota Vikings, according to ESPN.com.
Our View: The Ravens have a reliable, though aging, kicker already in Matt Stover, so it is likely that Hauschka will be used primarily as a kickoff specialist. |
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| Houshmandzadeh among Bengals captains | Monday 9/1, 2:26 PM CT |
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The Cincinnati Bengals announced that T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Bobbie Williams, Dhani Jones, Dexter Jackson and Carson Palmer as their captains, according to ESPN.com.
Our View: Houshmandzadeh and Palmer are leaders of the offense, so their representation is not unexpected. |
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| Phillips No. 2 on depth chart | Monday 9/1, 2:20 PM CT |
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Giants rookie safety Kenny Phillips, the team's first-round pick, had people talking about him in glowing terms this preseason, but apparently did not do quite enough, as he is listed second on the team's depth chart at free safety behind Michael Johnson, according to the New York Daily News.
Our View: If Phillips played as well as everyone claimed he did, then it should only be a matter time before he gains the starting job from Johnson. Phillips was a solid IDP sleeper, and still may be, but he'll have to get on the field in order live up to his promise. |
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| Bradshaw behind Ward | Monday 9/1, 2:15 PM CT |
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Running back Ahmad Bradshaw is currently third on the depth chart for the Giants, behind Brandon Jacobs and Derrick Ward, according to the New York Daily News.
Our View: Bradshaw is a favorite of many fantasy owners to have a breakout season - and he should still get some carries - but if he remains behind Ward, it will be difficult for him to contribute consistently enough to make much of a fantasy impact. |
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| HIxon will return to practice | Monday 9/1, 2:12 PM CT |
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Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon should be back at practice on Tuesday, according to the New York Daily News.
Our View: Hixon had been dealing with back issues, but should be good to go. He has limited fantasy value as he remains behind Plaxico Burress on the depth chart. He is also the team's kick returner. |
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| Bryant's job in jeopardy | Monday 9/1, 2:09 PM CT |
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Buccaneers kicker Matt Bryant had a horrific preseason, and the team is now trying out kickers at their practice on Monday, according to the Tampa Tribune.
Our View: The paper was unsure of who the particular kickers were, but this is not a surprising move considering how awful Bryant was. Stay tuned if you have him as your kicker on your fantasy squad. |
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| Metcalf practices | Monday 9/1, 2:07 PM CT |
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Offensive lineman Terrence Metcalf has returned to practice with the Chicago Bears after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery in early August, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Our View: Metcalf was thought to be in a battle for the starting left guard position, but that did not happen. He may still have a shot at it, but will have to perform in practice. |
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| Spencer out for Week 1 | Monday 9/1, 1:58 PM CT |
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Cowboys outside linebacker Anthony Spencer will not play Week 1 after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his knee August 20, but he hopes to be ready to play Week 2, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Our View: Spencer was slated to see a lot more action this season than last, when he made a favorable impression with three sacks and two forced fumbles. |
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| Jets sign eight to practice squad | Monday 9/1, 1:52 PM CT |
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The New York Jets have signed WR Larry Brackins, RB Jehuu Caulcrick, OL Stanley Daniels, DB James Ihedigbo, OL Matt McChesney, DE Ropati Pitoitua, WR Paul Raymond, and LB Brandon Renkart to the practice squad, according to ESPN.com.
Our View: Brackins was formerly a standout in the Arena League, and gives the team an option should one of their receivers go down. |
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| Rams make practice squad additions | Monday 9/1, 1:49 PM CT |
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The St. Louis Rams have signed seven players to their practice squad, according to ESPN.com. Those players are WR Derek Stanley, DL C.J. Ah You, FB Russ Weil, LB Marc Magro, RB Lance Ball, OL Dustin Fry, and CB Darius Vinnett.
Our View: Stanley played in one game for the Rams last season and was used as a kick returner. He will simply add depth, as will the others. |
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| Youboty will man nickle corner | Monday 9/1, 1:43 PM CT |
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The job of nickel cornerback has seen it's importance increase in the NFL in recent seasons, and for the Buffalo Bills, the person who will play that position for them will be Ashton Youboty, according to BuffaloBills.com.
Our View: Youboty was making plays all over the field in the preseason, including two interceptions. His fantasy impact is limited to how much he will help the Bills D/ST unit. |
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| Wilson signs with Chargers | Monday 9/1, 1:37 PM CT |
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Tight end Kris Wilson and offensive lineman Kynan Forney have signed with the San Diego Chargers, according to Pro Football Weekly.
Our View: Wilson holds limited fantasy value, and is behind tight ends Antonio Gates (assuming he is healthy) and Brandon Manumaleuna on the depth chart. |
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| Brady ready to play | Monday 9/1, 1:34 PM CT |
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Patriots quarterback Tom Brady said he will be ready to play Week 1 and his injured right foot feels good, according to the AP. "I've been getting progressively better over the past couple of weeks. I'm excited. I'm excited to start the year," he said.
Our View: This is great news for fantasy owners, many of whom undoubtedly took the New England signal caller in the first round. Only seeing him in game action will affirm his health, but unless a setback occurs, plan on having him in the lineup. |
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| Simms to Baltimore? | Monday 9/1, 1:26 PM CT |
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Quarterback Chris Simms, released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is making a visit to the Baltimore Ravens, according to the St. Petersburg Times.
Our View: Simms would give the team depth, and possibly a starter, because Baltimore quarterbacks have their own issues. Joe Flacco is a rookie, Troy Smith has been unable to practice or play due to an illness, and Kyle Boller is dealing with a shoulder injury. |
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