ARCHIVES Geez, I have a lot of formatting to do here! (John) Second Half Sleepers: AFC The reason for a cannon fodder list is to isolate the players who will simply sit on your bench and be average or unproductive. The last picks in the draft need to be high upside players that have the possibility of having fantastic seasons, or half seasons. You can't expect to win championships with the team you drafted. The players you have researched, and, draft first, are going to respond in the first half of the season. As they get injured, fail to perform, game planned or marginalized then you'll need good replacements. These will be players emerging into prominence due to outstanding performance or scoring circumstance. We have 14 - 16 owners in our league. In order to have more players available during the year for injury replacement and waiver wire pick-ups we allow only three bench players and two I.R. spots. It's even more important to isolate the first/second half players in smaller leagues that have larger benches up to five or six deep. Last year Larry Johnson was the classic second half player. In researching the draft it's easy to only focus on full season stats and ideas. That's why Rod Smith, Curtis Martin, Ahman Green and so many other respectable but fantasy average scorers will be chosen and finish the season on teams out of the playoffs. In order to win, risks need to be taken. many players will be fantasy average, but, you can narrow down the emerging talent and opportunistic breakouts by critically examining the scoring emphasis cross referenced with circumstantial analysis. Javon Walker coming off injury and getting stronger and more familiar with Denver's system, DeAngelo Williams who will take over after DeShaun Foster has his inevitable injury; players that circumstance will allow to shine in the second and closing half of the season are the bench players that will make you stronger when other teams are weak and scrambling for replacements. A.F.C. BALTIMORE: Jamal Lewis should have a great year, but, Anderson, as an adequate back-up will only give a, daily, more confident McNair reason to find his receivers. This means that Mason and Clayton's stock would rise faster then Anderson's. Baltimore uses a power running game which is different from Denver's zone-blocking, and, Musa Smith and Sams have power and could fill in nicely. Anderson was primarily a fullback and is an excellent lead blocker. If the Air attack increases Clarence Moore is tall and talented and could easily emerge as a favorite target. He's 6' 6" 220, and in his breakout third year. He has this advantage over the second year Darling who can't seem to wrap his head around the job and first year Williams. If Clayton doesn't work out, or Mason becomes injured Moore could be your man. S.H.P.: 1st Clarence Moore, 2nd Mike Anderson. BUFFALO: Willis McGahee could be a second half player as the line gels and the team finds cohesion and pride. I will not draft any player from this team, but, Kelly Holcomb is a good quarterback that can perform under fire. All the receivers are projects and wannabees. Price will be gone, but, Andre Davis was valuable in Cleveland and was lost in the field in New England. He's fast and experienced. I could see him emerging as the #2 receiver on this team. He'll be around on the waiver wire and can be picked up later. Buffalo is a bad team that will not score reliable points through any one player. Teams will stack the box on McGahee and blitz Holcomb. He has a little mobility and will be looking for reliable targets. Price will see the double teams so someone will have an opportunity to emerge. S.H.P.: 1st Andre Davis CINCINNATI: This is a prolific offense. It's hard to find a second half player when most of these will be on teams. Chris Perry has good size and hands and if Rudi Johnson ever decided to relinquish his hold on the #1 job he could be very valuable, but, baring a catastrophe that will not happen. Palmer is still limping with a brace and I just don't see him being back too soon. I also see him being blitzed, hit and re-injuring the knee. Anthony Wright will have a decent line, a great running back and a very deep cadre of receivers, He could be adequate, but, could never win the #1 job in Baltimore. Chris Henry is an idiot, but, hopefully, will mature because he is a gifted athlete. Behind him is Kelly Washington who has been relegated to mop up duty behind him. Antonio Chatman was a decent receiver in Green Bay and could have an impact as a speedy alternative. Tab Perry is also tall. In fact there are five six footers here with Henry the highest at 6' 4". This basketball team will provide decent targets for Wright if he has to play. S.H.P.: 1st Chris Perry, 2nd Kelly Washington, Antonio Chatman CLEVELAND: I think that Droughns will be fine for yardage again this year and he is an ox. The loss of Bentley is a huge setback for a program that seemed on the rise. Charlie Frye will be making most of the touchdowns through the air, and most of them will go to Joe Jurevicius. Edwards is returning from injury and will be drafted. I like Frisman Jackson. At 6' 3", I liked him last year in limited time. Northcutt is a possession receiver at best. Jackson has the best chance for breakout if Edwards can't make his comeback work. S.H.P.: 1st Frisman Jackson DENVER: This offense is all about the running game. Both Cedric Cobbs and Mike Bell are exciting Shanahan; according to him. Cobbs was a player Denver scouted hard in the draft two years ago and they grabbed him when he left a crowded New England backfield. Mike Bell has been showing a knack for the moves needed in the unique zone blocking scheme. If Dayne doesn't work or either of the first two go down then watch for Cobbs to step up. It's almost impossible to know what's in Shanahan's mind, but, with the confused receiver corps, Cobbs could be taken with a last pick and M. Bell in larger bench leagues. Denver's running game is one of the most fantasy prolific and needs to be respected. Darius Watts is looking at destiny and could easily pull it off this year. Walker may not be fully back until next, David Terrell needs to prove something to me before I look twice at him, and Smith is the consummate possession receiver at this point in his career. Shanahan will score with Kyle Johnson, Cecil Sapp, various tight ends and possibly linemen. Denver will simply score a lot and Watts could easily end with 8 - 9 T.D.s. S.H.P.: 1st Darius Watts, Cedric Cobbs, 2nd Mike Bell HOUSTON: Vernand Morency will be effective this year. Dominick Davis has never had the heart for this game. Maybe the reoccurring injuries are his way of collecting a check with something to blame other then his lackluster play. Antowain Smith seems to have a good attitude this year, and so would I; if I had a job in the N.F.L. He's a non-factor for the starters job. Maybe Houston should have tried harder to trade down to get multiple picks so they could draft a new O-line. Instead they upgraded their defense, a move I applaud, and returned the wretched line they had. Carr could be a great quarterback if he wasn't on his butt all the time. He has proven to be amazingly tough, he's possibly developed a whole new technique for Judo, and he is a first round pick with tested experience. He must be learning a quicker release, as a defensive move, and by now should be perfecting it. Moulds and Johnson will be taken, but, why. With a trio of tall receivers behind them Houston obviously wanted to get some targets Carr could still see as he went down. Forget all of them. This is a bad team. S.H.P.: 1st Vernand Morency INDIANAPOLIS: This team will score and score and score, until, the last two games when the reserves play, because, the bye is sewed up and the starters are sitting. Rhodes and Addai will fulfill the runningback role, but, don't sleep on the fullback James Mungro. If the first two go down or can't handle the job, Manning, I mean Dungy, will put him in. Mungro had 8 T.D.s when James went down and is, possibly, the best goal line back Indy has. Harrison and Wayne are the best, and Stokely will also be drafted because of the numbers he put up two years ago. Keep an eye on Aaron Moorehead. Stokely has lost a step and Harrison had two surgeries in the off-season. S.H.P.: 1st James Mungro, 2nd Aaron Moorehead JACKSONVILLE: This is a good team on the cusp of greatness. Unfortunately, they cannot get past Indianapolis, but, can and will make the playoffs. The running game has been fantasy-confused for a while. Someone always takes a chance on Taylor and good riddance. every year he's healthy, worked out and ready to go; whatever. Greg Jones is the fullback, but, a good goal line option and could take over as running back, he's that good. LeBrandon Toefield is awesome. This could be his year. Ignore the rookie with the two last names until he proves something he couldn't at U.C.L.A. Pearman is a wild-card. With Smith gone it's time for someone to step up. Everyone expects that to be the popular pick, Matt Jones, but, it could easily be the hard-working Wilford. Both will be gone. Reggie Williams is in his third year and could break out, but, Randy Hymes is a hard worker. S.H.P.: 1st LeBrandon Toefield, 2nd Reggie Williams, 3rd Greg Jones, Randy Hymes KANSAS CITY: Johnson is young and healthy. Dee Brown and Quentin Griffith are unproven. Griffith is too small and Brown could step into the role. It's unlikely to happen. Bennett, however, is a proven veteran and could take over if necessary. He will be used to spell Johnson. Kennison will be drafted, but, everyone will overlook Samie Parker. It's his third year and he can run the routes the rookies are learning. Dante Hall is a special teams player, but, keep an eye on him; he's special. It's hard to tell what Edwards will do with this offense. After losing two pro-bowl linemen, Gonzales will have to block and Green is one of the best in the game. S.H.P.: 1st Samie Parker, 2nd Michael Bennett MIAMI: Ronnie Brown is the running game. He is also very young and inexperienced. Fred Beasley is a good fullback and Sammy Morris has proven he can do the goal line duties if he needs to. Minor is a minor player. Chambers and Booker will be drafted, although Booker might actually be overlooked. I've always liked Kelly Campbell and I think he will lock up the third receiver role. Culpepper is going to have a great year and he knows Campbell well. S.H.P.: 1st Marty Booker, 2nd Kelly Campbell, 3rd Sammy Morris NEW ENGLAND: Dillon is going to have at least one more good year, then, Maroney will take over. Kevin Faulk is a between the numbers back only. Maroney is very good and Belichick is a genius. Could this be a R.B.B.C.? Brady spreads the ball around for success and no one emerges with any acceptable fantasy pattern. I really like Reche Caldwell and Deion Branch, and, really like the new rookie Johnson. But, Ben Watson will get more goal line looks then all of them. S.H.P.: 1st Laurence Maroney, 2nd Reche Caldwell N. Y. JETS: Cedrick Houston is ready to be the man. Martin isn't quite ready to give it up, but, it may not be his choice. Blaylock is a wild-card. He was brought in to replace Jordan and if that's all they wanted was a back-up then that may be all they got. Please, remember, the Jets are a bad team. Ramsey will likely be the quarterback and Coles the possession receiver. McCairens is rapidly dropping on the depth chart. If Ramsey can find any pride, while he's probably chasing Carr's record for sacks in a season, then watch for Jerricho Crotchery to emerge as the star here. I've always liked Tim Dwight but he's too much on McCairens path. S.H.P.: 1st Cedrick Houston, 2nd Jerricho Crotchery OAKLAND: This team wants Fargas to step up. I think that if he could he would have last year. Zack Crockett is a good goal line threat. The rest including Rod Smart, or ,"He Love Me", will have to find some of the Lion's courage if Jordan goes down. Brooks will be great this year, after all he is Vick's cousin. Porter is done for now and Moss is resurgent. Gabriel and Whitted are both awesome. Either could have a great year as the second receiver. And, Curry is still floating around. With a new, old school coach, there are a lot of changes and mystery on this team. The only constant is that they will score a lot of points! S.H.P.: 1st Doug Gabriel, 2nd Alvis Whitted, 3rd Justin Fargas PITTSBURGH: Confusion reigns in Bettis' wake. Willie Parker seems like he could be a Westbrook and not a Dunn, but, who knows. Staley is finished, unless the dead walk. Verron Haynes looks like the goal line beneficiary, but, Pittsburgh is actively talking to teams about their malcontents. They are not so sure of the Parker/Haynes duo either. Just think if T.J. Duckett actually showed up here, wow. Pittsburgh is an excellent judge of talent and Cedric Humes looks very good. I hate drafting rookies, but, keep your eyes on this Bettis clone. The spotlight is on Holmes, but, Cedrick Wilson is the former quarterback made good. Ward is awesome but attracts a lot of attention and truly works better as a second. He and Wilson could act as a potent duo. Quincy Morgan has talent and Nate Washington will be used more this year. Both Morey and Mays are quite tall as well. There are a lot of targets here for Roethlisberger. Pittsburgh has a difficult schedule ahead, and, as the champs, everyone will gun for them. They will be up to the task. S.H.P.: 1st Verron Haynes, 2nd Cedrick Wilson, 3rd Quincy Morgan, 4th Duce Staley, Santonio Holmes SAN DIEGO: Michael Turner is awesome. If he gets a chance he will prove it. McCardell is practically a sleeper. I can't see Eric Parker stepping it up with an inexperienced quarterback. He's a nice receiver, but, the offense revolves around Tomlinson and Gates. Jackson and Floyd are tight-end-like beasts. But, only McCardell and Gates will have a fantasy impact. Jackson has the bigger upside here. S.H.P.: 1st Michael Turner, 2nd Eric Parker, 3rd Vincent Jackson TENNESSEE: What is going on with this team? Are they truly terrible? Is any line with Kevin Mawae bad? Four solid free agent pick-ups and a truly risky and audacious draft mean that Tennessee is not going the way of San Francisco. Fisher's job is on the line and I don't know why. He's a genius. If Tennessee is so dumb to get rid of him, then some franchise will be only too happy to get him. Tennessee hadn't any teeth after Moon left, and, during the move to Nashville, he maintained dignity and fear in opponents hearts. Then, he went to a Superbowl; hey, Pittsburgh manufactured a miracle to get started too, right Franco? Now, wallowing in cap hell, you don't see him rolling over, but charging forward. Chris Brown and Lendale White will both be drafted. Travis Henry will not. Once, he was a stud, now, he's a career backup. Even with a bad attitude and lackadaisical work ethic, you can still have a job. Kind of like a reverse Terrell Owens. They both should thank God for winning the gene lottery. Peyton is a solid back-up and a small-ball contributor. What, I can't use cross sport terminology? David Givens is a tweener. Bennett is fragile.Volek is a stud, and Collins may be behind him. Young could come in on third downs near the goal line, although, that might be dangerous; see Vick. There's another basketball team of young receivers here, but, Tyronne Calico is a star waiting to happen. He is ready to prove that terrible injury, Theisman squared, is behind him and the great promise he exhibited is ready to shine. S.H.P.: 1st Tyronne Calico, 2nd David Givens July 31, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/sleepers/index.html" SLEEPERS | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/second_half_sle.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/second_half_sle.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 105. Rod Smith Smith probably deserves to be higher. He is a cannon fodder player that I hope will be taken by someone in the first four rounds, leaving the players I want to me. If he's available late, then, he can be valuable. He's 12 years into the league and is a consummate performer. The problem with his fantasy stats is that his scores will be haphazard, and largely unpredictable because of the prominence of the running game in Shanahan's offense. There are other receivers and three tight ends that can catch the ball. Plus, Kyle Johnson and the other fullbacks and halfbacks will catch touchdowns too. If Walker succeeds in his comeback he may even take over the #1 job with his youthful explosiveness. Plummer cannot be allowed to be out of control and is restrained by Shanahan's game plan. You'll get decent yards from Smith and 6-7 touchdowns, but, there isn't an upside to having him. He is a #1 receiver on a prolifically scoring offense and for that reason he will always have some value. If he's your #1 or #2, then your fantasy team is in trouble. July 29, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/denver/index.html" DENVER | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/105_rod_smith.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/105_rod_smith.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 104. Rod Gardner With a first ballot, Hall of Fame quarterback, a new running scheme that could confuse the offense as much as it works on the opposing defenses, and a softly moderate schedule; Gardner is poised to finally fulfill his potential. Whether attitude or immaturity, or personality clashes caused the mediocre years he's had, only he can tell; but, he is now coming into camp with the right attitude and renewed commitment to achievement. Green Bay will surprise some teams and simply beat others. It is not far fetched to feel they could have a .500 season. Whenever you have Brett Favre, you have a chance. Gardner's 6' 2", 213 and in his 6th year. He's fast and experienced. He runs crisp routes and has had plenty of time to get used to the swollen fingers Favre's passes cause. He will earn the #2 opposite Driver, and, with his height, catch his share of touchdowns. Favre may not win 50% of his games this year but he will go out trying and teams will have to outscore him. Gardner is my favorite sleeper pick, and, has as good a chance as any to be on top of the receiver charts at the end of the year. July 29, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/green_bay/index.html" GREEN BAY | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/104_rod_gardner.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/104_rod_gardner.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 103. Kevin Curtis Hm, some dissent is showing in St. Louis over the new regime. Worth noting. Curtis is a hardworking and valuable #3, with the right attitude. He could take over for Bruce and perform adequately. In the prolific offense that St. Louis has he is a threat to score each week. Once again a 'match-up' player for your bench; if Holt goes off, then the next week the opposing defense will be game planning for him. This means that they have decided that he will not beat them. With Bruce primarily a possession receiver who will hardly score more then 6 T.D.s all year, Curtis, will have an excellent opportunity and can be started especially in three wide receiver leagues. If Bruce goes down then his stock will rise dramatically. Even with the new emphasis on the running game, Bulger is an excellent quarterback and Holt an excellent receiver. The passing attack may not be used as much between the hash-marks, and even in the red-zone, but, it will not be forgotten and will still be prominent in the scoring. Curtis is definitely worth a, last couple of picks, flier. July 29, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/st_louis/index.html" ST. LOUIS | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/103_kevin_curti.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/103_kevin_curti.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 102. Lee Evans Solid cannon fodder player. Let someone else buy into the hype. Buffalo is a bad team that will be competing for the top draft pick. If Dilfer shines in the second half of the season they may be able to wrench it away from San Fransisco. He's here on the list because he's a #1 receiver on an N.F.L. team; which means he will have more opportunity then the #3s leftover. He will have one or two explosive games like last year, but, steady production is what's most important and he wont give it to you. If at the end of the draft he's still there then take him with your last or second to last pick, because, you never know, and his #1 position means he could become a focal point of offensive scoring, what little there will be, and, he would be a good, match-up, extra receiver to plug in occasionally. Plus, if I'm all wrong, and Buffalo gels, then he is a sleeper; yet, to take him too high is wasting a pick. July 29, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/buffalo/index.html" BUFFALO | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/102_lee_evans.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/102_lee_evans.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 101. Derrick Mason Reunited was a song I hated in high school. It was so sappy, and they played it over and over and over; ugh. Now whenever I hear it I reminisce and feel good about a truly magical time, and I don't mean high school; the 70's. You had to be there. With McNair in the Raven's covey, he finds himself hooking up with an old friend. They were a prolific duo, that know each other well. Take Mason late and expect some fantasy love. He's a good sleeper. Baltimore is on the rise and as it gels, and, the McNair/Mason relationship finds itself again, they could very easily be prolific. Mason is mostly a possession receiver right now, but, in the second half of the season he could be a solid starter for your team. July 28, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/tennessee/index.html" TENNESSEE | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/101_derrick_mas.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/101_derrick_mas.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 100. Reggie Brown A #1 receiver is always worth having, even the 49er's. Donovan McNabb  is all the scoring on this team. Philadelphia will revert to the pre-T.O. game-plan; you know, the one that worked in the playoffs two years ago. Westbrook will emerge and grab a lot of what's left of the scoring, and the rest will be mostly distributed to minor players. Brown will be a solid contributer. He is a very good pick-up later in the draft, but, because of my feelings about McNabb  being the only real fantasy value on the team; he's a cannon fodder player for me. 6' 1" 197 is a good sized target. Yet, he is only on his second season and still has much to learn. If you are desperate for receivers in the seventh or eighth or later, and he is available, then he's not a bad chance at an every other week scorer. July 28, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/philadelphia/index.html" PHILADELPHIA | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/100_reggie_brow.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/100_reggie_brow.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 99. Drew Brees Brees proved that he can be a great quarterback and even a fantasy stud. A shoulder injury has sidelined Pennington for quite sometime, and in the past, ended careers. Cannon fodder list for sure, and, keep an eye on him. Someone will draft him, but, the news coming out of New Orleans is increasingly bad and I just don't see daylight here. Let someone else have the Saints players and reserve your prayers for playoff caliber teams. Todd Bouman is not going to help you win championships in any way. July 28, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/new_orleans/index.html" NEW ORLEANS | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/99_drew_brees.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/99_drew_brees.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 98. Cedric Cobbs Cobbs is the last player you take in your draft. If he's not drafted watch him closely, but, when he emerges you will have to compete for him with other owners through the waiver wire. Any back in Denver, Mike Bell included, has a chance to be a fantasy god any season. Shanahan the Genius is the guru, runningback savant of the last decade. And, like the bearded monk that sits atop the mountain, climbing up to ask him who will start and be relied upon this year will get a cryptic prophecy of codified inspiration from an enlightened plane we could never hope to understand; just simply appreciate. Cobbs as much as anyone could emerge here, and, more then most. Denver scouted him hard, missed him, but, kept their eye on him. As he became available they secured his services. The coaching staff thinks very highly of him and if Bell and Dayne falter he will have every chance to be, the offensively prolific, Denver's, primary scorer. At 6' 0", 227 and Superbowl experienced, Cobbs is the best wild-card in the draft. July 28, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/denver/index.html" DENVER | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/98_cedric_cobbs.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/98_cedric_cobbs.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 97. Marion Barber This guy is a journeyman stud. It looks like a definite R.B.B.C. approach in Dallas. If he gets more then 7 T.D.s this season, then he will be a success. The passing attack will suck up most of the touchdowns, as Dallas's focus of scoring. Julius Jones may be a little fragile, but, can be explosive and will keep Barber from being the #1 and only back on the team. If Jones goes down again, Parcells will still R.B.B.C. like he did last year, and, the unpredictable nature of the Dallas offense means that Barber is essentially a cannon fodder player. Keep an eye on him as he may be available during the season. Certain match-ups should be strong. With T.O. and Jones on the team, I don't see Barber as an upside player. July 28, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/dallas/index.html" DALLAS | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/97_marion_barbe.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/97_marion_barbe.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 96. Curtis Martin And the last team finally makes a presence on the list. Curtis Martin deserves total respect. A great runningback, a selfless performer, a team player, a loyal professional, he will be in the Hall of Fame. He has been on my cannon fodder list for years, but, deserves the respect of placement. Young players could study his attitude to understand what it takes to really be a success in the N.F.L. and life itself. He's on the P.U.P. list now and may not come off it all season. The Jets are a jest, right now, and someone will score occasionally on the team, but, depending on any Jets player week to week is the white flag of desperate surrender. Watch this team for fill in players and emerging stars. I like Cedrick Houston, but, he may not be large enough. Derrick Blaylock is a cypher. Leon Washington could emerge and is worth watching. Forget the quarterback and receiver for now. A cannon fodder team and an unfortunate end for a great player. July 28, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/ny_jets/index.html" N.Y. JETS | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/96_curtis_marti.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/96_curtis_marti.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 95. Deion Branch Holding out for what? Listening to all the wrong people is why. Screwing up the Karma of a three time Superbowl championship team that can do it again is stupid. If you read the Gore posting, then you know how I feel about people that sign contracts, and, then don't honor them. Brady spreads the ball around and that's why Branch will never put up serious fantasy points. With three good runningbacks, they will try to use them more, and, the dink-n-dunk offense will march down the field and score. And, it will do it without him if need be. Branch is a cannon fodder player. He's looking at 6 maybe 7 touchdowns tops. There are plenty of upside players and sleepers that are worth having instead of him. Think about it. July 28, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/new_england/index.html" NEW ENGLAND | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/95_deion_branch.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/95_deion_branch.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 94. Ahman Green "You don't bring me flowers, you don't sing me love songs, anymore..." Solid cannon fodder player. Let him go. The whole idea of the cannon fodder list, is, that you only have one pick every twelve or fourteen. You choose a player and there will be many more taken before you get another choice. The cannon fodder players are the ones you ignore, hoping that someone else grabs them high, and, wastes their pick, leaving you with the players you've isolated as breakout, upside players. Green is done. the injuries, the new line, the new zone/cut blocking scheme; he's an old dog that will have to learn new tricks. He's just collecting a paycheck at this point. If he pulls a Curtis Martin, fine, you still have some other good player with less risk. He really had, only, one amazing year. That's it. Davenport is a better choice. Forget him. July 28, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/green_bay/index.html" GREEN BAY | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/94_ahman_green.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/94_ahman_green.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 93. Antonio Gates OK, does Gates deserve to be taken earlier in the draft? I've taken defenses early in past years. They can be very seductive. Every time has been a failure. Chicago leads the list this year. Almost 100% returning starters from the #1 fantasy scoring defense last year. A very soft schedule. An improved and deeper offense. Wow. Third pick, fourth pick? How soon will someone else step up and take them? Most pundits will beg you to take them last. Yes, I've been burned, but, if you get the right one the point differential from 1st to 5th or 10th is the widest gap of any other position. Late in the draft it starts to make sense to be the first to grab a position. Gates is the clear first in his position. He will outscore all other tight ends, maybe by double! To pick him will give you more points in one position each week over your opponents. But, his point total will only be about 50 - 60 and that puts him in the middle of the receivers. The tight end position is like having another, weaker receiver and you will not win a championship if you are depending on receivers. They do not score every week. They do not score on a regular basis. Only four or five of all of them are dependable in this way the rest will give you spotty production. So, how important is that tight end? Do you really want to give up on a 1st through 4th round pick? A 50-60 season point producer instead of a Marquee runningback, quarterback or even wide receiver? Chicago would be a better choice for they score every week, and their situation is awesome, and their point total will be over a hundred, and they will outclass most of the defenses you play against, week after week, giving you a distinct advantage. You won't have either, without picking them high; for someone else always will. Make the entire tight end position, cannon fodder, and get a solid one late in the draft. Practically no team will carry two and every team (32) has one and some, like Tennessee or New England, will have two who will score. If you have to work the waiver wire, week to week, to strengthen the position you're weakest in, then; choose your battles, and, choose the tight end position to work on. That said; Gates has only the Rivers inexperience and increased double teams to worry about but he is a huge target and will get open with his basketball blocking out skills. He's a great choice. July 28, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/san_diego/index.html" SAN DIEGO | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/93_antonio_gate.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/93_antonio_gate.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 92. Andre Johnson Until Houston shows competency, please, don't believe all the positive glow around this guy. Year after year he's talked up and year after year he disappoints. It's not his fault that the quarterback is on his butt. Johnson could be running the perfect route, juke his man, and be open straight to the end-zone; but, if Carr is enjoying the birdsong the little sparrows sing as they weave through the rotating stars over his head, then nothing is going to happen for your fantasy stats. Houston is a bad team. I think the three games, they may win, will save them from the #1 draft pick, two years in a row. 28th with a very mediocre 53 points in '04, 64th with a lousy 23 points and an injury last year. Remember, injuries tend to 'magically' show up when things aren't going well. Adding the ancient Moulds, upgrades, but, that still doesn't help get the ball in the air. Dominick Davis is coming in, supposedly, stronger and ready; but, that gets said every year. Philadelphia, @Indianapolis, Washington, Miami, @Dallas, Jacksonville, @Tennessee, @N.Y. Giants, @Jacksonville. Please, tell me which one of these games they will win, or even beat the spread! It's going to be another long year in Houston, and, I have no pity for the fans; have you seen the cheerleaders there, I'm thinking of moving! Johnson is the classic cannon fodder player. He is highly touted and someone will take him by the fourth round. If you chose not to take him and don't focus on studying him, or, not even putting him on your list; then you can focus on the players you believe will actually contribute to fantasy victories. There are players in certain situations that are just not a good gamble and need to be stayed away from. It's like being short-stacked in the main event and you're looking at an 8-3 suited. Don't even think that your going to bet your tournament life on a miracle flush! Just muck the cards, please. July 28, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/houston/index.html" HOUSTON | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/92_andre_johnso.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/92_andre_johnso.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 91. Jon Kitna Pick him. Grab him at the end because Detroit has a lot of talent, an easy schedule and, finally, the right coach. Early quarterback picks in the draft are proven, once again, to be the ultimate lottery. Careers can be ruined, reputations destroyed, especially since so much invested money, means they must hold onto an under-performer too long. I'm a firm believer that the position player with the greatest impact and longer career should be taken first. In retrospect, is there a better choice for #1 in '05 then Shawne Merriman? Kitna has a fire burning inside him. He has proven over and over again that he has what it takes to lead a franchise. He's finally in a place where he can really be appreciated and if he proves it once again, then he will have a home to cement a legacy. A strong veteran leader is exactly what this team has needed. Yes, he's small, but, he more than makes up for it in heart. Marinelli will bring discipline and Martz a Superbowl winning, offensive scheme. With the softer schedule that Detroit has, Kitna could put up some great numbers and give Detroit a solid season. July 28, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/detroit/index.html" DETROIT | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/91_jon_kitna.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/91_jon_kitna.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 90. Frank Gore And San Francisco almost wins again, finally making the list at 90, the second to last team standing. The regressive rookie contract situation is out of control. What may have been a good idea at one time has become a yearly embarrassment of competing, unproven, ego's. There are so many failures that walked away with large dollars. There are so many players that have held up teams. That's teams; the plural means people: owners, coaches, players, fans. The contracts the first picks receive are insulting to the journeyman and professional veterans that have already given of their blood and tendons etc., and proven their worth on the field. It's time that the money and contracts were standardized for rookies. The first pick should be a chance to turn things around, like it was intended, not a nightmare headache, franchise destroying roll of the dice before you ever even get to see them play. Someday, players will have to realize that they can't keep asking for more of the pie, as the owners are putting up the money, and the fans are paying for all of it. A national sport that quickly becomes a diversion of millionaires for millionaires while the peasants pay for it with stadium financing bills and tax breaks. (And, the basic salaried players can't complain as they often approve of things, rank and file, for the millionaires benefit with the idea that it could be them, though for the majority it will never be.) But, that's another issue. Houston, clearly scared of Bush demanding too much money, the best defensive pick is possibly the better long term choice anyway (wouldn't San Francisco be a better team with Merriman or Tatupu, then Smith? Houston a better team with first round offensive lineman then Carr?); and other issues like the length of contracts and later choices wanting more than their correct share because they were slighted and think they should have been first even though they weren't. Gee, Seattle should just call themselves the Superbowl champion, since many clearly think they are, thinking they lost only because of the ref's perceived incompetence, and, having been cheated; they should demand the league make them co-champions or not play the next season! Gosh, just like Saddam Hussein saying he is still the leader of Iraq and refusing to recognize the court he's being tried in! Hunger strike, anyone? Wow, Bush is clearly on to something here. Why, this type of thinking could infest our whole society and change everything! Oh, wait, were talking about the N.F.L., which has no guaranteed contracts; so they don't have to pay for players who can't perform or don't want to, and, players routinely complain they're not paid enough and renegotiate, hold up teams, destroy seasons, and generally refuse to honor the contract they signed. But, wait, the rest of society could use that too! We should be able to ignore our contracts as well without repercussion. They're only legal documents anyway. Who cares. Oh yea, were just the little people. The insignificant, common ants that these players look at from their suites' balconies. I should have more perspective; I should be more enlightened and understanding. I should simply worship Bush, or, say, Terrell Owens, and be thankful that I was allowed to exist at the time of the realization of, their greatness; their Ascension. Anyway, Gore worries me with the injuries last year. His line is not good, his team is even worse. He showed talent and a nose for the end-zone, and, he could be the focal point of scoring for the team in '06. (Very important concept here!) There is a good possibility that San Francisco will have entire games where they don't score. With this in mind, and the health issues; not to mention a veteran who might suddenly find his 'special' power, Gore is a cannon fodder player. If he's not on a team mid-season, a strong possibility, then he'll be a good pickup with the right match-up. The reality is, that you should strive to have players that are on the best teams. Playoff team players make up most of the top fantasy performers. Gore might have a great year and would be a good late, late round flyer, but, San Francisco is even odds to have the dilemma, and pocket book pains, of the #1 pick once again. I can't help wondering, though, if Bush was the franchise savior every pundit thought he was, then why didn't a single team trade up for him, especially, since Houston didn't want him? July 28, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/san_francisco/index.html" SAN FRANCISCO | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/90_frank_gore.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/90_frank_gore.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 89. Jake Plummer Every team would like to have the luxury of sitting their future quarterback for a year. There is a huge difference between what they did and saw in college, and what goes on in an N.F.L. game. Marvin Lewis reminded everyone of this when he had Kitna playing and slowly worked Palmer into the line-up, starting his second year. In his third year, Palmer became a fantasy demi-god. Palmer is also a good reason to have either a legitimate back-up, or, your future quarterback on the bench in case of serious injury. Cutler will be able to take his time and learn the plays, the defenses, soak up the speed of the game, and build his strength and endurance. He will also be ready, in the event that Plummer goes down, to start his career. We'll see this year how well the theory works, as Phillip Rivers takes the field for his first, season opening, start in three years. Aikman has stated that if he hadn't started his first season and ended up taking such a pounding his career would have been longer. Carr has been in the line of fire from day one. He has certainly held up well. He has not been down with a serious injury, yet. And, it is the quality of his team, especially those terrible lines, that has kept him from the playoffs. If he were to have been in Roethlisberger's place, would he have performed with similar success? Denver has a legendary running game; and don't be concerned about all of the news filler about their back confusion, its the usual confetti that Shanahan throws out there to confuse his opponents and mess up their game planning. They also have good coaching and a solid defense. Their tight ends keep turning over, and, former Denver tight ends are littered around the league; but, that's because they have some young ones they like and they don't want to put a lot of higher money into he position right now. Their receivers are also a jumble, which further increases the density of their (misdirection?) confusing smoke screen. Will Walker be able to come off injury and perform? Will Lelie play for Denver and/or will they replace him with another receiver; or a runningback? With the steady veteran, Rod Smith, and the emerging, third year receiver, Darius Watts; Plummer has two excellent targets. He, and Denver will be fine. Lelie knows that Watts is breathing down his neck, and, with Walker going to be increasingly part of the offense, he can't see a place for himself. With his underachieving play and overachieving ego, he's right. Plummer is being reigned in. It's working. Whenever he's asked, or thinks he has to, take over a game he tries to do to much and chokes. (Sound a little like a certain Green Bay quarterback last year?) If they keep him an active but controlled part of a well oiled offense, then Denver is hard to beat. And, because the running game is the focus of the scoring in this offense, Plummer will always be competent, but, not spectacular. I'd leave him as cannon fodder for someone else. July 27, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/denver/index.html" DENVER | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/89_jake_plummer.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/89_jake_plummer.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 88. Chad Jackson At 6' 1", 212, Jackson has good size for a receiver. He has gifted hands and fast feet. Normally I would never recommend a rookie receiver, but, with Branch's discontent and the Possession master Brown on the other side, Jackson could end up being very effective in the second half of the season. Brady is an excellent quarterback and will move the ball with short, controlled passes. Branch will be in play when the season opens, but, missing camp will put a bitter taste in Belichick's mouth, and I wouldn't be surprised to see Jackson getting opportunities and stepping up. Brown is a great player, but old and limited in what he can accomplish. He is a great leader for the team and can help the collection of nobodies that New England has at receiver. He will be a mentor for Jackson. Can Jackson have a Boldin style season? In New England he can. The O-line is excellent and the defense stout. The coaching is still the best in the league. Corey Dillon is revitalized and physically ready for a good season and behind him a hungry rookie. The schedule is moderate, and this will help tremendously. With Buffalo and the Jets weak, only Miami stands in the way of another division championship. Someone is going to score points in the red-zone and by the second half of the season Jackson could be the one catching Brady touchdowns. July 27, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/new_england/index.html" NEW ENGLAND | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/88_chad_jackson.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/88_chad_jackson.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 87. Trent Green The addition of Ty Law gives the defense some serious upgrade. They are already one of the most opportunistic in the league. Now they could be termed dangerous. Trent Green is a very competent quarterback. The man of 4000 yard seasons. If only the running game wasn't so strong. If only Vermeil had stayed in St. Louis. How many championships would he have won? Certainly the next one, for starters, and with Green to step in when Warner went down; what might have been. As it is, Green's going to have to get there without him. And, he just might. Edwards is, currently (now that Mora the elder is out of the league), the most colorful and quotable coach. His sound-bites have the deliciousness of sense behind their desperate, sarcastic, urgency: "We play to win the game!" Kansas City is going to scare everyone they play. They'll probably split most of their division games, as usual, everybody wins at home. Living in the old A.F.C. Seattle, any year we could beat division rivals twice (particularly Kansas City), was a year we were going to the playoffs. There weren't many of them. The home field advantage Kansas City has is legendary. Denver can boast of the same. Teams that visit San Diego let their guard down and party too hard. Oakland, is Oakland. When Seattle played in the deafening roar of the Kingdome with a surface almost as hard as the Vet, they were just as intimidating. Before re-alignment the A.F.C. West would beat each other silly, until there was nothing left year after year. Any team that came out of this division was a dangerous playoff opponent. It's no wonder that Seattle, after joining the N.F.C. West, with the depleted San Francisco, the anemic Arizona, and the waning, post championship Rams; has gone to the Superbowl. Meanwhile, the A.F.C. West is still one of the toughest divisions. Denver has many questions, but, is still a solid, Shanahan team. Oakland's defense can't keep anyone from the end-zone, but, their offense will have to be out-scored. Regardless of River's ability you still have to beat Merriman, Tomlinson and Gates. Kansas City is going to score a lot of points and Green will be the facilitator. The problem is that Johnson will probably score most of them, and, if he does, then Green's fantasy value is solid, but, limited. Don't worry about his age because his protection comes from one of the best lines in the N.F.L. Edwards wants to try ball control. He wants longer, grinding drives to eat up the clock and keep the A.F.C. West offenses off the field. In the end this may open the door for Green to actually score more touchdowns. He is a great second quarterback. He will be a little frustrating as your starter in the weeks he doesn't score touchdowns, unless your league scores massive yardage points. If Johnson falters then Green could have a stellar year. July 27, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/kansas_city/index.html" KANSAS CITY | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/87_trent_green.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/87_trent_green.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 86. Byron Leftwich I'm not exactly sure why Leftwich has been a fantasy disappointment year after year. I've certainly put forth some theories already. I think the team isn't sure either, but, they are committed to him. My brother feels that the light hasn't gone off in Leftwich's head. I'm skeptical that it ever will, but, TJ puts him on his team every year. He's a Cannon Fodder player. This offense just can't seem to come together since they let go of Brunell. The running game has been anemic, the receivers a rotating crop, and the line play average at best. Yet, Jacksonville is always dangerous. They are the foil to Manning's Colts, the second fiddle, the also rans. They did nothing in the off-season to make anyone feel that they can overcome the Colts and make it deep into the post season. They are a winning team with an aura of failure hanging around them. They feel like the Stockton-Malone Jazz in the Jordan era. With a very good defense and a solid, tough-minded coach, what holds them back, year after year, from the ultimate success? They say no one ever remembers second place. The quarterback is the emotional leader of the team. His personality defines them, his confidence elevates them; so, his deficiencies, eventually, are glaringly evident. Leftwich cemented his place in college football lore when he was basket carried by two teammates between plays in an important late season game. His fortitude and bravery cemented him in the draft as a Culpepper/McNabb clone. '05 19th, 65 total: 7, 0, 6, 6, 6, 3, Bye, 7, 10, 4, 16, 0, out, out, out, out, out '04 17th, 76 total: 3, 3, 4, 8, 11, 16, 9, 1, Bye, out, out, 4, 4, 7, 6, 0, 0 '03 16th, 66total: 0, 3, 3, 5, 10, 6, Bye, 5, 3, 11, 0, 0, 8, 3, 3, 3, 3 I'm sorry, but, I don't think Leftwich will help anyone win fantasy championships this year, either. Jacksonville has a very difficult schedule, with a very tough start. If they start 0-4 then things will go downhill from there. Anticipate a .500 season or better. The defense is just too good, the O-line is solid and there are decent runningbacks and two, ready-to-break-out, receivers. Maybe Leftwich can find his grove, his bravery, his confidence and lead his team back into the playoffs. Maybe. July 27, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/jacksonville/index.html" JACKSONVILLE | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/86_byron_leftwi.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/86_byron_leftwi.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 85. Keenan McCardell An aged warrior, McCardell continues to earn respect around the league. Fifteen years, 10680 yards, 62 T.D.s. In 1991, as McCardell carried veterans' bags into the Redskin's training camp facility, Kevin Costner won an Oscar for best picture, Phil Collins had the album of the year, while under house arrest Aung San Suu Kyi won the Nobel Peace Prize (She's still under house arrest), George Bush had soldiers in Iraq, Boris Yeltsin was elected President of Russia, the last three U.S. hostages are freed from Lebanon, the Soviet Union was dissolved, Kirby Puckett and the Twins win the 7th game of the World Series 1-0 in the 10th, and, the Giants sustained a ten minute drive after halftime to help Bill Parcells to a Superbowl victory; thanks to Scott Norwood, who became the most well known Bills player in history. Chris Simms was in the stands, that day, having been excused from his fifth grade class. McCardell will be a big help to Rivers with his experience and professionalism. He gets open, makes the tough catch, and can still break the home-run. Grandpa with teeth! He is the primary receiver on a good team and is worth an eighth round pick. If he gets nine touchdowns again, he'll be worth even more. Teams will stack the box and force Rivers to win the game. McCardell will stand out from a bunch of journeymen receivers and the double team will be over on Gates. Hmm, Maybe seventh round would be better. He'll be an excellent third receiver and will be overlooked by most owners. He may even be a productive second and help you to victories. Keep in mind he had only one touchdown in 2004, a year that Tomlinson ran wild and Gates emerged. This year looks to stack up a little differently. And, I can promise you that next year, Aung San Suu Kyi will still be under house arrest, George Bush will still have soldiers in Iraq, Hostages will still be in Lebanon, the Twins will be remembered for a hard run at the World Series, and Scott Norwood will still be the most well known Bills player (wide right) in history. Oh, and you never know; Parcells might be in another Superbowl. July 26, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/san_diego/index.html" SAN DIEGO | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/85_keenan_mccar.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/85_keenan_mccar.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 84. Chris Brown I wonder how many people realize that the phrase 'writing on the wall' comes from the book of Soloman. Jones is not getting a message from God but he is surely getting a message from Chow. He has a straight up running style that everyone said reminded them of Eddie George. They may have drafted him with this in mind,  ignoring the warning that this style lends itself to injury, and, the fact that Jones is not George. He had some exciting games before the injuries derailed him and sent his fantasy owners to the waiver wire. He even was injured on a long, bonus bomb, run where he was stopped short of the goal line erasing a 9 point fantasy score and more then a few F.F. victories. Travis Henry was not a suitable replacement. Climbing out of salary cap hell is a painful process and never easy; just ask San Francisco. In trying to get back to the Superbowl after the heart-wrenching loss to St, Louis, many extensions were paid and free agents signed. A few disappointing years later the Peter came looking for the money they had given Paul. (Is that a biblical reference?) Now they are a reborn team and have made savvy moves that are making the hopelessly mired Forty-Niners blush, and, subsequently green with envy. Norm Chow is an awesome addition to a team on the rise. The defense is starting to come alive and the division is starting to level. If Brown can screw his head on right, the team wants and needs him right now. What these modern players fail to understand is that if they just perform they will get paid, and, the guy in camp to replace them will sit on the bench. If Brown wants job security, then he needs to prove on the field that he deserves it. White hurt himself with a bad attitude and dropped like a rock in the draft. He is Chow's project and Tennessee got him cheap. There is no guarantee that he will make it in the physically, and psychologically grinding punishment absorbed by a back in the N.F.L. Increasingly the league is seeing the value in a two back approach, and, even if the second quality starter doesn't see the field right away, injuries are just around the corner to give him that chance. With runningbacks being the highest rate of attrition then having a second is the smartest move a team can make. Before drafting White it would have been courteous and diplomatic for the coach to have called Brown and explained to him that he was the man and they were making a value, best available player. pick-up and that he was valued by the team and should not feel threatened by it. This could have saved some pain. And yet, how many of us think out the consequences of our actions and how they effect others. Tennessee will still have a tough time this year, but, Volek is the real deal and the receivers are good. The O-line is ranked 31st out of 32, but, they are improving. Brown will play all year if he stays healthy. White will get increasing playing time, depending on his attitude. Brown is the #1 runningback on his team and in Chow's system an important part of the scoring attack. As a late pick he is a solid value. He will go earlier and due to the many questions that surround him it's probably better if you designate him as a cannon fodder player. There are better choices to focus on. July 26, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/tennessee/index.html" TENNESSEE | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/84_chris_brown.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/84_chris_brown.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 83. T.J. Duckett 8/22/06 Well, my Steelers didn't get him and this on the back of rumors over Staley's release. What will happen now, eh? Portis will be relegated to between the numbers carries and Duckett will become the touchdown back. We'll see how he does in the first few games that Portis might be out, but, this makes him even more valuable then being in Atlanta. Betts is good, but not great, and Cartwright will always get a few, but, with Duckett, Washington adds a fearsome element to their attack. Rumors are flying that Norwood is something special and that he has made Duckett expendable. If this is true and Duckett stays with Atlanta, then it's sure that his touchdown totals will be off as Norwood gets his. At 6' and 254 he is a Bettis clone (5'11" 255). Pittsburgh likes the size and views him as a perfect compliment to Willie Parker and Verron Haynes. If Duckett is traded to Pittsburgh then his value will go up. He's too large to be an every down back (maybe), but, anyone will be fearful if he's barreling down on you from behind the stout Pittsburgh line. There's no zone/cut blocking in Pittsburgh, just pure and simple power running, ram it down your throat style. The Zone scheme fully in place in Atlanta doesn't really suit his skills. With the #1 rushing attack last year, Atlanta uses Vick as their primary back and Dunn as a yardage back/receiver. Duckett has been valuable as a goal line pounder, but, if Norwood is good enough in the scheme to take over, he could relegate even Dunn to a change of pace back. This will not happen this year, but, I think it is the plan. Atlanta has an improved defense and would be wise to keep Duckett and use him as they have been. Without him they will be a poorer team. He wont give you yards, but, he is a load coming at ya! July 26, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/washington/index.html" WASHINGTON | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/83_tj_duckett.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/83_tj_duckett.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 82. Mark Clayton Clayton started to show signs of life towards the end of last year. He finished the last four games with a 100 yarder, three touchdowns, and one, a 47 yard bonus bomb. At 5' 10", 195 he is a speedster and can be a perfect complement for Mason and McNair. Baltimore is improving so rapidly that the team is definately looking at a strong postseason run. Billick has had to endure tons of criticism as the glory and respect he received for winning the Superbowl has eroded badly from mediocre seasons and an offense that they could never seem to get right. Finally he has the pieces in place to make it work. Clayton is only in his second year, but, the excitement is sure to get his attention and start his blood to boil. There is magic in the air in Baltimore and this particular season could be a very special one for Mr. Clayton. The defense is older and has lost some key components, but, now, there will be more balance on the team. Jim Fassel was a good head coach and has a keen offensive mind. Clayton may only project to six T.D.s, but, if he can carry over what he accomplished at the end of last year, and, sustain it all season, then he will crack many a fantasy line-up for his lucky owners. July 26, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/baltimore/index.html" BALTIMORE | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/82_mark_clayton.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/82_mark_clayton.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 81. Eddie Kinneson It always pays to have a #1 receiver on a good team. Edwards says that he will be running more. This will actually benefit Kinneson. Last year Johnson was the offense for Kansas City. He was the unknown, fresh legs. This year he will be the offense for the whole season. This means that Edwards will have to spell him where he can and have the luxury of some misdirection near the end-zone. I see Kinneson's numbers going up. Trent Green is a vastly underrated quarterback, and , often throws for 4000 yards in a season. Who do you think he's throwing to? Kinneson would be better as a #2, but, Kansas City has never bothered to upgrade the position. Between Gonzales and Johnson there usually aren't that many more touchdowns to go around, but, I'm getting a good feeling about Kinneson this year. The division foes know what's coming and are not game planning for Kinneson. Usually he's just an adequate filler with stability and limited upside. We'll see. Samie Parker is in his breakout third year and Kinneson a wizened eleventh. It wasn't so long ago that he retired on Denver in a fit of frustration. He has quietly revived his career in Kansas City. He is worth a seventh or eighth round flier and will play, at the very least, to the average. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/kansas_city/index.html" KANSAS CITY | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/81_eddie_kinnes.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/81_eddie_kinnes.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 80. Brett Favre Is there really any other player you'd rather hang out with then Brett Favre? He could be the coolest guy in the N.F.L. Green Bay has a kind schedule, a division they can't win, but, with some luck, still dominate; and a championship pedigree. They have a new coach with a new system, a very young and inexperienced O-line, questions at runningback and a #1 receiver that works better as a #2. I think just having Favre gives them a .500 or better season. Favre will be in some shootouts and will try to be a little reigned in this year, but, will still throw plenty of touchdowns. It will be very educational to see how the offense responds to their crash course in the zone/cut blocking scheme. It helps that they're all young men. If the running backs have trouble and can't establish the rushing attack, then defenses will blitz to get to Favre. Subsequently, his throws will get wilder as he scrambles and feels it is all on him to win the game. It is. The uncertainty surrounding this player, who has been a first and second round fantasy pick for years, leaves him as an excellent second quarterback, and, if you've waited to get one, a more then adequate starter for your team. Because of last years injuries to marquee players, and, the subsequent movement of many more, this position is deep with talent. Favre will still be in with the best of them. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/green_bay/index.html" GREEN BAY | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/80_brett_favre.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/80_brett_favre.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 79. Steve McNair McNair is one of my favorite players. How can you not love a man that plays through any injury, rises from his hospital bed, (I'm sure he has installed in his home) to charge onto the field each Sunday and perform. I think he simply lives to play. If Ronnie Lott hadn't removed a finger for the game, I would have said that McNair is the toughest player in the modern age. Baltimore has championship pedigree and more then a few players on the team remember the road there. The defense is still feared and fearsome. The O-line is solid and the running game backed up with studs. McNair finds an old friend in Derrick Mason, a talented underachiever in Clayton, a talented giant in Moore, and a third year Cougar in Darling. The division is very tough and the schedule no better. McNair will be facing defenses that will be looking to test his legendary toughness, but, I have a good feeling about his chances. Lewis should be able to resurrect his career just on the hope and promise that raises the atmosphere around the Ravens camp. This entire offense is the best fielded by Baltimore since their Superbowl run. There will have to be a lot of points engineered by McNair for them to win the division, but, Cincinnati is wounded, Pittsburgh faces a murderers row, and Cleveland is still getting their feet underneath them. McNair is an injury risk, but, a great option for fantasy success. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/baltimore/index.html" BALTIMORE | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/79_steve_mcnair.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/79_steve_mcnair.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 78. Samkon Gado A message to all my mates out there, forget about this player and move on. That's right, just mouse down to the next guy on the list, now. Gado is the consummate sleeper material. His infectious personality, eagerness to play, humble nature, and elusive feet have made me a Gado believer! He's not unknown, but, no one will take him high. Green Bay is a bad team in a bad division, which, makes them a good choice for mining gold. Favre is a Superbowl winning, future Hall of Fame quarterback behind a young and hungry line. The receivers are suspect and the first two runningbacks are coming off serious injuries and attitude. Gado has not taken to the new zone/cut blocking scheme being installed. His lack of football experience means he will learn and adapt to new things at a different speed. It's unsure how successful this crash course in the new system can be. The linemen are young and don't have old habits to break. Still, they're in a learning process and may take more then one season to master, competently, the technique. It will be interesting to see if Green Bay reverts at any time, either during games, or for half a season. Gado is a diligent worker and his spirit is strong. Like learning a new dance step it will take some practice for him. His pride will not let him fail. I think that Gado can win the starting job. There is some concern that Davenport will be the goal line back, and Green is still around, but, Green has been injured so often lately that I think his career might be over. This is certainly the year for him to disprove it. Gado showed promise last year, and, the talent to relegate Davenport to a back-up role. Unfortunately, his experience is so light that a Dunn and Duckett approach is more likely. Green is the wild-card. With a crowded backfield, Gado is a risky pick and perhaps an excellent second half player. Green Bay has a soft schedule and an improving defense. With Favre as a leader, a winning season is not unlikely. If Gado wins the job he will run with unbridled joy. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/green_bay/index.html" GREEN BAY | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/78_samkon_gado.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/78_samkon_gado.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 77. Deuce McAlister I was the one who drafted him in the fourth and fifth rounds when Williams left for Miami, and he took me to two Superbowls. I was the one that passed on Edgerrin James, last year, to take McAlister; twice. I was caught up in my own prejudices and ignored the powerful incentive of the contract year. I couldn't have foreseen the hurricane that would suck all hope out of the team, or, the injury that took him down. But... He is still a great player and with his experience a better player then Bush. It takes two years to return from the injury he suffered. This year will be interesting in New Orleans, and McAlister may be very valuable in the second half of the year. He will be taken early, but, if he's overlooked then he's a decent pick-up in the eighth or ninth round. You will need to carry him for six games at least, and, if you've got a short bench, maybe his owner will drop him mid-season, not! There are too many questions about the team and the schedule for him to be ranked higher, but, as a sleeper he's a great one. Everyone always gives weight to what the players did the year before, thinking that this is the road they're on. Because of the unknowable chaos of the future and its infinite possibility, just looking at last year is a novice strategy, at best. In analyzing the lists over multiple years there is great turnover, and, a lot of players will re-appear after falling due to circumstances. Identifying these players, that can be picked up late, win championships. McAlister will have a great '07 season, but, will he this year? If you draft well and win a lot of games, but, then your team falls apart and you're bounced out of the playoffs; then, you'll start thinking about the players that will help you in the second half of the season. McAlister is a good candidate for that. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/new_orleans/index.html" NEW ORLEANS | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/77_deuce_mcalis.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/77_deuce_mcalis.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 76. Mark Brunell Even an old Cougar, like myself, must tip his hat to a worthy warrior. Brunell and Bledsoe seem to still be rivals in how long they can keep their battered bodies on the field and play at starting quarterback levels. Jacksonville has to be wondering where they would be, had they kept Brunell and replaced the O-line to protect him instead. Both quarterbacks are still rivals, going from one of the most fierce in college to one of the most fierce in the N.F.L. One has to wonder if they are friends that sit down over Martinis in Washington and Mint Juleps in Dallas, or a beer at home. Brunell is old, bruised, experienced and savvy. Gibbs is a great coach and Snyder has been dumping money into talent for years. The division is going to be a brawl and the rest of the schedule affords little relief. Portis will establish respect for the running game and a cadre of fleet receivers will keep the blitzes off him. Brunell needs to just sit back in the pocket and do what he loves to do. I give him the edge over Bledsoe in how far his team will go, but, T.O. gives Bledsoe the greater opportunity for fantasy scores. Brunell will be an adequate quarterback, and every now and then, will give you the big game; but, he is also a strong candidate for injury and the back-ups are shaky. Nothing special here, a solid late round pick or second quarterback for your fantasy team. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/washington/index.html" WASHINGTON | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/76_mark_brunell.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/76_mark_brunell.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 75. Nate Burleson '05 103rd, 7 total: 45, 48, out, out, Bye, out, 37, 6, 16 - T.D., 14, out, 0, 26, 20, 24, 26, 66 Yards '04 10th, 78 total: 0, 1, 1, Bye, 6, 2, 1, 6, 14, 8, 9, 0, 6, 0, 14, 10, 0 F.F. Points '03 87th, 17 total: 0, 6, 29, 54 - T.D., 71, Bye, 0, 52, 51, 19 - T.D., 32, 32, 28, 0, 15, 57, 8 Yards Based on the promise of one season, and, more out of revenge for the Hutchinson fiasco, Seattle has Burleson. He's a hometown boy and comes back to the love and camaraderie of family and friends. He's coming off a serious injury and it remains to be seen how that will develop. He will be drafted earlier, especially in Seattle, and will be a great gamble. He is on an A-list team, that is set up to go back to the Superbowl. He replaces a great, Superbowl winning, receiver. The expectations are very high. It will be interesting to see if he can catch Hasselbeck's passes, or, if the legacy of drops still haunts the team. I think he's a huge risk and maybe a good pick-up for the second half of the season, as he comes back from the injury and acclimates to a new system. Burleson is an upwardly mobile player, but, has not really shown that he is better then a #2 receiver, yet. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/seattle/index.html" SEATTLE | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/75_nate_burleso.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/75_nate_burleso.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 74. Matt Jones At 6' 6" 242, Jones, the former quarterback, is tight end sized. If he succeeds to elite status as a receiver, he may create a new mold to aspire to. Leftwich seems to have plateaued in talent. By putting the hard working 6' 2" Wilford and Jones into his sights it will be hard to miss them. At 6' 5", Leftwich and his receivers will tower above the field and play in a different atmosphere then the grinders on the field. Jones is still developing his receiving skills, and, is becoming a dangerous weapon on the field. I expect his numbers to rise this year and with all the buzz around him it will be interesting to see how soon owners draft him. I think he is on the rise and next year will be even better. He is officially, a sleeper. Jacksonville will take a small step back this year, but, will still be a very formidable team. Jones is a great late round choice for yours. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/jacksonville/index.html" JACKSONVILLE | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/74_matt_jones.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/74_matt_jones.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 73. Jerry Porter 7/28: Another underacheiving, frequently injured, disgruntled player. Downgrade this, I have an injury-leave practice early wearing a belt studed with large metal dollar signs, idiot of a player. Oakland has plenty of talent in Whitted, Curry and Gabriel. They need him, but, wont miss him. The T.O. infection spreads. =========================================================================== It's troubling to see Robert Gallery have an injury so soon. Injuries are a good indication of attitude. Winning teams suck it up and play. Losing teams use them as excuses. I'm not talking about the Theisman, season over, type; but, the McNabb hernia or the numerous, you never heard about them, Bruschi injuries that simply prove strength of character. Gallery has already been an under-performer, and, the team needs him to excel this year more then ever. Watch the lists to see how many Raiders are injured in camp, and, you will see the general attitude they have to the new coaching staff and quarterback. Porter has always had an attitude. He has always shown flashes of brilliance and potential, but, never had the professionalism to put it together for an entire season. He's valuable and will give you a good game, but, consistency has eluded him. He has had a series of nagging injuries which hold him back from a higher ranking. Moss, Jordan, Brooks, Gabriel, and Porter are a talented and dangerous combination. Porter has a great chance for a breakout year. But, so many other years were great breakout chances too. If Brooks and Moss work things out, then Porter could easily put up Wayne and Houshmandzadeh numbers. At 6' 2" 225, he has the size and is in an odd year, his seventh season. He has always groused that he is not the #1 receiver and never accepted his #2 role. He has never bothered to earn the #1 receiver role, either. Last year he was 30th with 44 points. In '04 he was 15th with 69. Expect a bounce back year with new hope and a better, hopefully, healthier team. More then 70 points? Probably not. However, Porter already has a strained calf and it is a lingering problem. He is quickly living out an unremarkable career and that's very sad. His potential is much greater than this. If only someone could get into his head and impress upon him the incredible future that could be his, and, how fleeting the lottery pick job, he has, is. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/oakland/index.html" OAKLAND | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/73_jerry_porter.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/73_jerry_porter.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 72. Terry Glenn "She." Possibly one of the most infamous name-tags in football. Parcells knew what he was doing when he called Glenn this. It's the same thing Vermeil did to get Larry Johnson to wake up and correct his attitude. She, has finally come into his own, and that, with the coach who gave him the unflattering moniker. Terry Glenn had a fantastic year last year. I don't mean as an elite, but, as a waiver wire pick-up that helped your team to the victories you needed to get to the playoffs. '05 12th, 66 total: 0,11,2,1,14,1,0,1,Bye,6,0,1,6,16,0,7,0 Keyshawn Johnson will make Steve Smith better. T.O. will help Glenn have similar numbers as the opposite effect of Johnson. Glenn is a home-run hitter and with T.O. elevating the scoring opportunities, Glenn will be the outlet when he is triple covered. Teams will forget about Glenn to their sorrow. I don't see Glenn as the tough over the middle, sacrifice guy, picking up possession yards so someone else can be the hero. But, this may be the role he falls into. The running game is still soft and confused and T.O. will open things up for everyone. If Glenn can be as productive as Reggie Wayne and T.J. Houshmandzadeh, then, that would be the high side of what to expect. If Bledsoe goes down, so will his numbers. I like Glenn as an eighth or ninth round back-up. If someone goes starry eyed and takes him sooner, well, there are a lot better choices available. She will have to check his attitude and be a selfless contributor to the team. I think he has bought in to what Parcells is selling and has matured wonderfully into a valuable player. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/dallas/index.html" DALLAS | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/72_terry_glenn.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/72_terry_glenn.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 71. Reggie Bush I guess I've always rebelled against the norm and that's partially why Bush is so low here. But... The attitude he exhibits as 'the anointed one', and, as 'God's gift to football'; are simply offensive. Football is a team sport and no individual can succeed without the team doing its job well. Even Barry Sanders, the greatest 'running' back to ever play, had a team that showed, in the year after he left, that they were a good team without him. For an individual to flout the rules, and act like he is above everyone else, is troubling to the genesis of the team attitude needed for team success. His situation with the house his family accepted, and, the people led on to believe they would be his representatives, reeks. Why would they have put up a dime without talking to him directly and getting some assurances; and, if he was against it, then why did the family accept? So, he never visited his mother, and brothers, for an entire year and never asked about their new house? Please. It's, simply, U.S.C.'s problem. The hubris in which he thinks he is untouchable and everyone else is stupid, is amazingly tolerated by the press and N.F.L. owners. Kellen Winslow had this attitude, and, he went down and lost his money. His accident was a direct reflection of his invincible attitude. The best example is Maurice Clarett. Bush could be heading down a similar road. A truly great player needs to be humble and respect his peers. No matter what the promise of his athletic ability he needs to learn and prove that he can do something with it. David Boston had a great athletic ability, and, he destroyed his career instead of becoming the elite receiver he could have been. The list of failures is far longer then the list of successes. The media frenzy phenomena, of our current culture, has gone to his head. The promise of potential and, more importantly, the money he will command in endorsements and salary; have gone to the heads of the people around him. This is looking strongly like the giant ready for a fall. He should study the class of the N.F.L. and emulate them. The Barbers, for instance, are an excellent example of hard working talent that understand the wonderful life they are privileged to receive. The overwhelming majority of humanity will never experience or understand the life that Reggie Bush now stands on the threshold of. In respect for them and the fans that make his ascendancy to god-hood possible, Bush should show appreciation and respect. Unfortunately, he has decided to be small minded, selfish and a consummate jerk. He is quickly cashing in the good feeling chips for the isolated, busted out misunderstanding of Barry Bonds. Bonds cheated Pittsburgh of two World Series championships by putting himself before the team, turning his back on his teammates and the fans to publicly rail about his selfish desire for money. His postseason batting average proves he choked to prove the point of his stupidity. He filmed a commercial that came out early in his Giants career. He hits a home run and while rounding second he stops, calls his agent, and tells him that he's going to need more money or he's not going home. Bush is quickly headed down this road. His first national commercial portrays him cheating a friend; through the guilt of association by using his status to demand friendship tribute from one of the 'little people', out of the top draft pick in fantasy football. Often hubris blinds its slaves to themselves and allows them to become complicit in portrayals of the truth that they feel is simply acceptable behavior. Reggie Bush is quickly becoming a cancer that will infect and destroy New Orleans. He will be the second hurricane to decimate that wonderful city and rip the hearts out of its suffering residents. He may be the catalyst that destroys the franchise enough to allow its departure. (L.A.) Deuce McAlister is a great back and still young. He will recover from his injury by next year. Bush has never held the #1 runningback's responsibility, alone. He was the alternative, the lighter, quicker, pass catching outside rusher. When the national title and history was on the line, some very smart and accomplished men went with Lendale White, instead. White scored more touchdowns and was possibly more valuable overall then the occasional home-run hitter against questionable talent on college teams. It will take a couple years for his body to get acclimated to the N.F.L. speed, hitting and endurance. He needs to learn plays and defenses, and gain valuable experience in dealing with professionals looking to knock him back into his rookie place and give him an intimate understanding of the term: "snot bubbles". The schedule New Orleans faces is brutal. They will get another top five draft pick next year. They will lose games and frustration will set in. Brees needs to come back from a very serious injury and stay healthy. The line needs to re-find an identity and reform its unity around a lot of new people, some with questionable talent and attitude. the Stallworth issue could blow up and be poisonous, and then there's Bush's future relationship with McAlister and the pecking order he will not want to accept. Bush will feel his way into his greatness or wither and die under the unfulfilled expectations and crushing psychological failure that found its extreme in Ryan Leaf. Houston is still taking heat from the pundits that have anointed Bush as the second coming, but, everyday they are looking smarter and smarter. Their defensive choice is already under contract and, if he truly is talented, will contribute immediately and elevate the Texan defense. Look up what Merriman, Tatupu, Urlacher and so many more did in their first year. Has any runningback had such an impact; and for so long! Houston knew there was going to be a problem with the money, Bush let them know right away. In the retrospect of this draft it will be evident that the Saints would have been better served with D'Brickashaw Ferguson, a future franchise quarterback, or a top defensive player who would have made an immediate impact on the bottom line, winning. If Bush is the demi-god everyone thinks he is then he will score the minimum ten touchdowns and get over 1200 yards and be the rookie of the year. Take the chance and draft him if you think this, because someone will. He won't be available after the third round of any fantasy draft. But, keep in mind he could just as easily end with 4 T.D.s and 650 yards. More likely, in the midst of failure, a convenient, or (hopefully not) tragic, injury will occur, and he will use it like so many others as the excuse for failure. There is one thing that in his heart of hearts and soul, Barry Bonds would love to have; a World Championship. If he had followed either of his fantastic seasons with a quiet, team first effort in the series with Atlanta, then he would have one or two rings and have gotten the money he desired anyway. Bush, like Bonds feels that money is respect and Bonds, at least, has learned that type of respect is false and empty, in deed. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/new_orleans/index.html" NEW ORLEANS | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/71_reggie_bush.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/71_reggie_bush.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 70. Darrell Jackson In watching his remarkably unremarkable career unfold in Seattle, the greatest catch Jackson has ever made was his new contract after a very unprofessional season. We all know why Shaquille O' Neil is less than 50% for free throw accuracy; a lack of concentration and practice because he can keep his job regardless. Darrell Jackson is not a physically gifted specimen like T.O., and yet, he drops a crazy amount of costly passes, has a bad attitude, is a good second receiver on another team, and, gets a huge contract that set a new standard for G.M. excess. He is good, and in the Seattle system will give you a lot of touchdowns. He's going into this season injured, and it's inconclusive how long, or, how much it will effect his playing ability. Jurevicius, last year, finally proved that someone can catch Hasselbeck's passes, and, as Burleson realizes his potential, Jackson will become a #2 again. Alexander has a new contract, So, it's hard to tell whether he's happy to slide, or, if he feeds off the pride of accomplishment and wants more. Any fall off in his production and the slack would be picked up by the receiving corps. With Jackson's experience in Seattle, he's the class of the organization right now. He may deserve to be higher on this list, but, somehow he always lets his fantasy owners down. He may get good scores in the first half of this season, but, then may fall off. His fantasy scoring has never been consistent. Seattle has a tougher schedule this year then they've faced in years past. Watch the injury in camp, then make your own decision if he should be on your team. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/seattle/index.html" SEATTLE | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/70_darrell_jack.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/70_darrell_jack.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 69. Kurt Warner Warner must be really excited and more then a little scared as he gets ready for this season. He has an amazing array of weapons available to him. The schedule is relatively moderate, and the defense is improving. He will have many opportunities to prove he's back and still as good as his M.V.P. season. But, he's got to be feeling very nervous about the line in front of him. If they were better, he'd be much higher. Warner can't take even a fraction of the punishment that Carr absorbs in a single game and if James can't provide some security and build pride in the O-line he'll be looking up at the stars before his eyes. If Warner makes it through the year he will have gaudy numbers. It's been established that James isn't interested in the end-zone, but can move the ball. Warner's two pro-bowl receivers will eat up opponents, and, will have to in the shootouts that will ensue. If Warner makes it through the season he could easily be in the top five of fantasy scoring Q.B.s. If... If... When adding him to your team make sure you have a back-up plan! Unfortunately, he's the sexy, loose, Swedish beauty you met on her one week, wild, vacation before she goes back home for good. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/arizona/index.html" ARIZONA | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/69_kurt_warner.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/69_kurt_warner.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 68. Ben Roethlisberger Roethlisberger should recover completely and have no lingering affects from his accident. Cedrick Wilson is a former college quarterback, just like Randle El, and should fill his shoes nicely. Santonio Holmes is fast and will be a new and unknown weapon to be dealt with by opponents. Hines Ward is a true champion and one of the best ever. He has the toughness of a linebacker and the blocking skills of an offensive tackle. He is always open, even when double covered. His instincts are amazing and he will catch the ball almost every time. He is a lethal weapon. Heath Miller is quickly growing into one of the best tight ends in the N.F.L. He is needed to block, often, and is very effective, but, can catch and is particularly dangerous in the red-zone. Willie Parker is not a power back. He is fast and can run and catch, like Dunn or Barber. He is quickly developing into a formidable weapon and can break a home-run from scrimage, or a pass, anytime. Staley is in the twilight of his career and has never been the back they paid for. His frequent injuries and lackluster attitude were actually evident in Philadelphia. Bettis' health and spirit kept him on the bench, where he gladly accepted an easy paycheck and Superbowl ring. This has allowed Verron Haynes to emerge from a group of talented, journeyman backs to actually elevate his play to starter consideration. He's not quite the goal line puncher that Pittsburgh likes to have. He can catch the ball, though. If they get a power back, like T.J. Duckett, then some touchdowns will be taken away from Roethlisberger. As for now, Cowher is ready to depend on him to evolve into the quarterback he hasn't had to be, yet. Roethlisberger will take another step in a very lucky career, and, if he can become a great passer and lead Pittsburgh to another Superbowl, then he will cement his own glory in the Steeler legacy. Pittsburgh faces one of the most difficult schedules in '06. Yet, they are the reigning champ. They have one of the best defenses in the league, one of the best offensive lines and, certainly, one of the best coaching staffs. Seattle can cry about the refs and about how they appeared to be the best team on the field, but, they did have their chance to win, and, more importantly to the outcome, they did not make adjustments on the field; Pittsburgh did. Roethlisberger will be an adequate quarterback for you fantasy team. And, in the crucible of a withering schedule, if he transcends and rises into the responsibilities thrust upon him, then he will outperform all but the most elite of fantasy quarterbacks. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/pittsburgh/index.html" PITTSBURGH | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/68_ben_roethlis.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/68_ben_roethlis.html" \l "comments" Comments (2) 67. Joseph Addai 5' 11" 215. Good size, fast feet. Dominic Rhodes had a great rookie season after James went down. Then, James came back. Last season, James would march them down the field, then, take himself out, to stand on the sidelines; reportedly tired, while he watched Rhodes punch it in to the end-zone. Rhodes is still young and experienced, but, the injuries he has had are almost enough for him to get 'the label'. Now that he goes from back-up closer to starter, I think he will be fine. Addai doesn't strike me as the back that comes out of college and destroys the league. But, with a year or two to work with the N.F.L. strength and conditioning coaches, to add layers of muscle and toughness might craft him into an effective back. If Rhodes goes down then Mungro is the experienced back, but, Addai will certainly get his chance; probably in a thunder and lightening approach. I don't think he will beat out Rhodes, but, he could be a helpful, second half scorer; depending on circumstance. As an upright runner, he opens himself to injury, and, his football instincts are not, currently, sharp. He may not be the answer as James' replacement, but he's going to have a couple years to grow into the job. If he doesn't get discouraged early, and works hard, he could earn it. July 25, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/indianapolis/index.html" INDIANAPOLIS | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/67_joseph_addai.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/67_joseph_addai.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 66. Ernest Wilford Wilford has been the designated favorite player of Tuesday Morning Quarterback. (accessible on ESPN.com, page 2) Now that he's coming into his own, there will be some prescient pride shown by the Easterbrook clan. He is tall (6' 3"), hungry and talented. He's in his third year; touted as the breakout year for receivers. With Jimmy Smith retiring, he has a shot at being the #1 wide-out and I think he will succeed in holding onto the job. Byron Leftwich is only an adequate passer. His numbers, year after year, are not spectacular. He is a physical specimen, but, as a field general, he seems to come up short. The Jaguars are an interesting study in N.F.L. football. Under a John Fox protege in Jack Del Rio, their defense is a clone of Carolina. As much as you can be with different personnel, Del Rio has created a formidable, well coached group. Unfortunately, he is defensive minded and desperately needs an offensive genius to get him over the hump. It's ironic that Brunell is on track for the Superbowl, while Jacksonville, can't win their division and struggles to make the playoffs. The running game is alternately brilliant and missing, and, above that reigns the dangerous but easily diffused (did I say confused?) Leftwich. Jacksonville is strong and dangerous, but, until they figure out why the offense doesn't seem to work, they will not win the Superbowl. Maybe they just keep the wrong people too long. Brunell wasn't finished when they brought in the Culpepper/McNabb clone Leftwich, and, Taylor has been letting them down for a while. They have a promising young player in LeBrandon Toefield, and the U.C.L.A. rookie. Matt Jones is a huge talent and Reggie Williams is fast. Most cornerbacks are rather small. If the runningbacks can get close to the end-zone it will be hard for Leftwich to miss either of his starting giants; or, at least Del Rio hopes so. Wilford has been progressing nicely and is really, in the best place to succeed. I look for him to have an excellent season and a long career.    July 24, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/jacksonville/index.html" JACKSONVILLE | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/66_ernest_wilfo.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/66_ernest_wilfo.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 65. Billy Volek Sleeper alert! Volek was one of the most productive back-ups for years and now he gets his chance to be the man. Last year he came in and was a fantasy relief, for McNair's suffering owners. He hooked up with Drew Bennett as if they were Manning - Harrison. He's got a decent O-line, a good group of receivers, good runningbacks, and a new, awesome coordinator. The defense is improving, and even though Tennessee will struggle to make a .500 record, teams will know they were in a game. Volek will play well. With an entire training camp and preseason as the designated #1 quarterback, Volek will finally be prepared and comfortable for the role. He wont stop Young from taking over the job, but, he can prove to the league that he can be an effective starter, and, get awarded with a big contract in a place that appreciates him. Tennessee could open 1-5, and, the schedule doesn't get any better. But, Volek looks like a lock to score points, especially if he finds himself coming back from behind every week. Knowing this is his chance, he will not be depressed by the, basically, expected losses and will play on, inspiring his team with an undaunted spirit. He will be this year's Drew Brees. It will take time for everything to gel and the team is looking at this year as the first step on the road back from cap-casualty hell. They are up and coming and will surprise a few teams. If the young players step up sooner then expected then it will be an interesting year. Jeff Fisher is a good and tenured coach and he always wants to win. Volek will be available later, and, if you've neglected the position in a 14 team draft he's an excellent value pick-up. As a second quarterback, he's the best choice to cover your bet.   July 24, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/tennessee/index.html" TENNESSEE | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/65_billy_volek.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/65_billy_volek.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 64. Javon Walker At this point on the list, players that are due respect are given just that. And, as cannon fodder they may already be on someone else's team. Even though Walker is coming back from a severe injury, and a severe case of discontent (bad {selfish?} attitude), he is still a great talent. Anyone who can stand in their and catch Brett Favre's finger-braking bullets, deserves respect. Denver has a mess on it's hands right now, but, still has a variety of working receivers. Rod Smith is one of the class acts in the league and it's a testament to him that he's still with the team that drafted him. Darius Watts is a future stud and can take the opportunities opening up for him and run with it. He is in the magical third year. Denver will get something for Lelie and will be better off for his departure. Anyone that demands respect without proving they deserve it is an idiot. Lelie is a good second receiver and has not shown the heart it takes to be a first. He has a good contract that he signed and needs to honor. If he tries to sit out the season, I would love to see, just once, a team take their player to court over breach of contract. Oh yea, that happened to Rasta - Ricky! Denver is ready to make a run at another Superbowl and this idiot, who really is an important part of that plan, objects to them adding the last component that will take them there. Hmm, maybe he hears the footsteps of a draft pick that could supplant him in the line-up this season. After all Walker, inevitably, is there to replace Smith, not Lelie. If Lelie outperformed him then he would have earned the #1 receiver role. Shanahan saw a good deal and pulled the trigger. He envisioned a Walker - Lelie attack with Watts as the third receiver. Unfortunately, ego's got in the way and things turn bad. Lelie can go away, because this team will go on, and will do well. Will Walker be a scoring part of that this year? Who knows? He has his money and has his pride. He may be an excellent pick-up for the second half run. Kind of like the numbers Boldin put up last year after sitting out the first half with his injury. Someone will take him higher, and that's OK. Greenbay passes to score. Denver passes to set up the running score. Shanahan knows he needs to keep Plummer's passes to a minimum to succeed. With the injury, new system and scoring competition, I think I have him in the right place. Walker will contribute, just, not right away. July 24, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/denver/index.html" DENVER | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/64_javon_walker.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/64_javon_walker.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 63. Cedric Benson 7/28: the longer Jones keeps a bad attitude and pulls the mysterious injury antics the more he looks like a downgrade and Benson's stock will rise. Chicago is in a serious Superbowl run so they will not trade Jones. And, ultimately, Jones is the better back. =========================================================================== I am in firm belief that Thomas Jones has not only earned the #1 spot in the Bears backfield, but, he will if knocked back; by some very ill-timed money grousing, earn it again. You just can't bench the kind of talent he's developed into. Chicago is on a Superbowl run and the stars are so right that I've predicted them to be there. Benson will not be hurt to wait, and learn, and grow stronger. It worked for Larry Johnson. He will see playing time and will score a few touchdowns. But, there are too many questions as to Jones ability and his inexperience. A team looking at a cupcake schedule, and a #1 defense, and a now thoroughly backed up offense is not going to let a little pay griping get in the way of their march to a playoff bye. Jones realizes that his payoff will come from showing once again that last year wasn't a fluke and that he's the real deal. Benson, well, so far he hasn't shown the fire he should have for his draft status and windfall payday. I don't buy the argument that a team must play a guy just because they paid him. I think the smart teams will do what it takes to win; and Lovie Smith is very smart. Remember, Chris Perry was to take over for Rudi Johnson, and, he's still waiting and getting paid. Rookies should not have these escalating paychecks that make hard working veterans look like a joke. They should be capped and given bonuses based on performance. I'm sure that would have saved San Diego a lot of money a few years ago. But, then, where would Coach Price have been able to hide from his own scandals if not for the awesome, unearned paycheck his former quarterback received. Benson is here, and many will have him higher. That qualifies him as a cannon fodder player, but, one I would draft, in later rounds, on the chance he takes over. Many will argue that he will and if that's true he'll be a steal for whoever drafts him. I'm betting that wont happen this year; it's too important to the team to mess with success. July 24, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/chicago/index.html" CHICAGO | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/63_cedric_benso.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/63_cedric_benso.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 62. Fred Taylor OK, let's see if I'm wrong. '05, 41st, 31 pts., 13 games under 2 pts., 5 to injury, one 100 yd. game, one 150 yd. game. '04, 30th, 41 pts., 11 games under 2 pts., 2 to injury, three 100 yd. games, one 150 yd. game. '03, 17th, 58 pts., 11 games under two pts.0 to injury, three 100 yd. games, three 150 yd. games. '02, 12th, 66 pts., 8 games under two pts., 0 to injury, four 100 yd. games, one 150 yd. games. Most distressing is the loss of his receiving yards. Most of his career, Taylor, was like a poor man's Marshall Faulk. He has had magnificent games. The promise of his fantasy potential has had him picked higher then he should have been every year. He is a favorite among list pundits and rookies. He is an archetypal, cannon fodder player. He always comes in to camp with the buzz of how much he's worked out, and, what a great year he will have if he can keep healthy. I can't believe it. I love it when someone takes him because that leaves a player, I'd rather have, untouched. Jones is developing the toughness, layers of muscle, and experience necessary to capture the primary runningback's job, but, is listed as the fullback. Alvin Pearman has Westbrook size and will only be a contributor. Yet, LeBrandon Toefield has the right size, and is slowly gaining respect. This could easily be the year he steps from Taylor's shadow. Oh, and I guess I'm not wrong. Still, Taylor's mystique earns him this spot on the list, but, keep an eye on the young Toefield. July 24, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/jacksonville/index.html" JACKSONVILLE | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/62_fred_taylor.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/62_fred_taylor.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 61. Matt Hasselbeck In '05 he finished 10th,  90 total, in the middle of a 5th to 15th, 17 point mediocrity. He also scored a 0 in week seventeen. In '04 he was 12th which, at 89 total, was the best of the quarterbacks that missed the great-year-of-the-quarterbacks. He was, once again, mired in mediocrity. Eleven quarterbacks scored 102 - 177. Only five quarterbacks scored 102 - 131 in '05. In '03 a 19 point week, an anomaly, put him in 4th with 107. In '02 he was a still developing 23rd with a measly 63. As long as Shaun Alexander does his job, then, Seattle, will not ask much of him. They have tried to put together a receiver corp, but, have had the worst luck. Joey Galloway didn't work out and they eventually traded him to Dallas, ironically, he finally found respect again last year in Tampa Bay. Darrell Jackson used one good year to get petulant, then overpaid, so he could underachieve. Oh yea, and sit around injured a lot. Koren Robinson was a high draft pick that is also beginning to realize his potential in another city, Minnesota. There have been a variety of aged veterans and young wishfuls, but, none have overly distinguished themselves until Joe Jurevicius brought the aura, and then reality, of championship professionalism to town. And he was allowed to move on to Cleveland. He showed the Seahawk receivers, who they could be. Hopefully, his level of commitment and professionalism infected the whole team! I love Bobby Engram, but, as hard as he works he is a third, possession type receiver. That's why Chicago let him go. Peter Warrick is the great potential that was never realized, and, is revitalizing himself on special teams as a returner. Cincinnati found a cadre of excellent receivers so they let him go. It's hard to believe that he will crack the top two and have a fantasy impact. Then there's the latest free agent project, an injured hometown boy, that they acquired due to revenge. It will be interesting to see if he can recover and then actually become the receiver he hasn't yet. When handed the #1 job he wavered, didn't succeed in convincing anyone he could do it, and succumbed to a season ending injury. Seattle wanted to prove a point about playing fair, but, in the end Minnesota was willing to pay, way to much for any, guard and Seattle ended up with a wounded apprentice. There are two dynamics here. The first, is the question of Hasselbeck's constitution and talent. One game in the playoffs he looks like he's reached a new level of excellence and then the very next game he's the same old guy. Faced with adversity in the Superbowl he didn't step up, walked away without a trophy, and convenient scapegoats to deflect any criticism. The second, is the epidemic of dropped passes. When even the all world, all universe, all time, incomparable Jerry Rice drops passes then you have to wonder what the real source of the sickness is. Holmgren is a good coach. Favre won the Superbowl, and he's been trying to prove it was him ever since. Holmgren was out schemed in his second, which draws into question his own legacy and commitment. Either there is a sickness of spirit in the receiver corp and he can't seem to inspire these men to elevate their level of concentration and play, or, he simply doesn't care to fix it and find the source. Alexander is the focus of the scoring in this offense. He has commanded the point total of this team since he came in for Waters years ago. Seattle had an easy ride through their division and schedule, last year, and few realize how important the schedule is to everyone's outcome. Namath threw the most catch-able ball. That's what they all said; and, he delivered a Superbowl. Maybe the real problem, if it's not in the spirit or leadership capabilities of the coach, is in the quarterback. Maybe the solution is a quarterback coach who can identify this problem and fix the mechanics in Hasselbeck's throw. I'm simply speculating, from the outside, on a fatal flaw of this team. As far as fantasy football is concerned he is a very adequate quarterback, who will give you the average points for the position. If you draft him late, then I hope you get some extra points from the positions you drafted early, because, he won't be winning the Superbowl for you. On the other hand he will deliver a solid average and possibly above average; he will not go below it. Seattle has two very improved teams in its division and they will also face some of the best teams in the league all year. If they do get back to the Superbowl it will be because both Hasselbeck and Holmgren are the best at what they do. July 24, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/seattle/index.html" SEATTLE | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/61_matt_hasselb.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/61_matt_hasselb.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 60. Carson Palmer At the end of the regular season, franchise fantasy owners were excited that they were going to be able to keep Palmer in '06. Then, in the first playoff game, the horrible, the sickening, the tragic major catastrophic injury occurred. We all hope that Palmer can come back and play at the level of his potential. We all hope he has a long career. But, it will probably be played out on someone else's team. He is a keeper no longer. Cincinnati is showing a lot of faith in his comeback. They didn't pick-up a decent quarterback in the off-season. Neither back-up can lead them into the playoffs with any expectation of a Superbowl appearance. The total blow-out of a knee is shocking. To come back and play professional football on it eight months later is even more shocking. It takes runningbacks two years to come back from even half the tears that Palmer suffered. He doesn't have to run too much, his O-line is solid and there's an excellent running game to take some pressure off. Defenses, if they are ruthless, will stack the box and blitz him. They will force him to throw and scramble. They all want to see if he can perform. Cincinnati had a great year in '05. The receivers are excellent and the back-up runningback can catch too. They won a very tough division, and, Palmer had a career year; a breakthrough season. If not for the injury he would be up with the Mannings in everyone's rankings. Most prognosticators have him still ranked quite high. Yet, one more injury and he's in trouble. If he pushes too hard and tries to come back too soon, he could be down for a while. I tore cartilage playing racquetball in college. At the time I was playing everyday and loved the sport more then any other. the doctors told me to get lost and I had to quit playing racket sports. I still miss it terribly. Years later, after aggravating the knee again, I had a surgery. The arthroscopic procedure, that hardly left a scar, was not available when I originally injured it. By not having the first surgery, I had saved myself a six inch scar and bone on bone grinding. I can't imagine the technology involved in surgeries today. But, the body still needs to heal and you can't change that. If pride and hubris brings him back too soon and he tears it again, there may be the possibility of a career threatening situation. I went back to work too soon and tore a calf muscle. There are many ways the leg is weakened and Palmer faces more the just another ligament tear. He's 60, on my list, out of respect. But, in a deep quarterback pool risking everything on this gamble is dangerous. He'll be chosen much higher then this, and, so, he becomes a cannon fodder player for me. Too bad. Cincinnati will not recapture their division crown. With a schedule twice as difficult as the one they played last year, they will have a hard time maintaining a winning season. One step forward, two steps back. If they lose their first few games things could get ugly quickly. Maybe Boomer could come out of the booth and suit up. Cincinnati has a very bright future with Marvin Lewis and the team he has assembled. Culpepper, was injured early in the season and has had more time to come back from a lessor injury. Palmer, simply needs more time. It's conceivable that he rages through the second half of the season trying to catch up to Pittsburgh and Baltimore. Its not like their schedules are any easier. I'll draft him late as a back-up and give a good look at him in the first week or two. Most likely a true believer will exercise his faith much sooner then I. July 23, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/cincinnati/index.html" CINCINNATI | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/60_carson_palme.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/60_carson_palme.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 59. Julius Jones After disappointing early, Julius Jones sat on my I.R. the entire year; until, there he was, available, but, battling for playing time with Marion Barber. I was in a semifinal playoff game and hating my match-ups. Injuries had started to take their toll. I needed a runningback and surveyed my bench. Jones just didn't seem to be there for me. I had watched him tear up Seattle, a couple years ago, and was impressed with his fantasy potential. But, he now seemed small and ineffectual and Barber seemed to have the job. When in the playoffs you really need to think about what the coaches are thinking and what the teams are going through. Perhaps if I hadn't been so fatalistic, and focused on my other two semifinal games so much, I might have realized that Parcells wanted to see what Jones could do. He had been injured all year and Parcells had rotated the backs until Barber started to show some fire. It made sense that, with the season over, Parcells would experiment a little; and, a hungry Jones, who wants to get his job back, would run all over the place. I didn't see it because I didn't creatively think about the fourth quarter of the N.F.L. season. I'm always warning about Indianapolis, sitting their players, because they've sewn up the bye; essentially ditching their owners, and disappearing in the fantasy Superbowl. The flip side is teams experimenting to see who they need to keep and who to let go. My team went off in week 17, but I wasn't in the game. Where does this leave the discussion about Julius Jones? Who knows! Jones is a cypher. He's too small to stay healthy all year, until, he builds up his body and conditioning. His brother needed a few years of N.F.L. workout to be a starter as well. He can go off like Santana Moss in one game and then disappear for two. Parcells found an appreciation for Barber, while Jones was injured, and he's a bigger back. Parcells will definitely operate the R.B.B.C. and Barber will take valuable touchdowns in the red-zone away from Jones. Even more damaging is the attention and Touchdowns that will naturally go to T.O. Both Jones and Barber will be asked to advance the ball between the hash-marks and establish the running game to open up the pass. It's vitally important to isolate the focal point of scoring on each team. In Dallas it's obviously T.O. Jones may have a good year, and may bloom, as the player he keeps promising in spotty play. But, for me, putting him at this placement means he's become a cannon fodder player. They say once burned shame on you. Twice burned shame on me. In fantasy football, prejudice can cost you a good player. Whether I'm reacting to being burned in the past, or if I'm trying not to react to the fact that I like him; he's a gamble and a late round pick-up if anything. July 23, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/dallas/index.html" DALLAS | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/59_julius_jones.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/59_julius_jones.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 58. Brad Johnson I have a tremendous respect Brad Johnson. Johnson is a player, a champion, a fierce competitor, and, for a man his age to stand in there knowing he's going to be hit and be calm in the face of the storm. He's a bit fragile, but, tough, and throws accurately. He's got a variety of good receivers, pass catching runningbacks and tight ends. A plethora of targets! With a newly, pro-bowl cemented line, and, one of the greatest fullbacks currently in the game, as well as a new runningback who adds instant respectability, the Vikings have been reborn. Add to that a new coach, a new attitude, and a soft schedule and you have a winner! He does deserve a new contract and it's too bad that they haven't addressed it; even if it's just for the year. He should not be starting, and, being paid back-up money. The man has won a Superbowl! He will play his heart out and selflessly, tutor Tavaris Jackson. He adds dignity and legitimacy to a team that desperately needs it. I'm embarrassed as a fan, that he isn't being respected financially for what he is contributing to the team. Johnson is too much of a professional to do anything, but his job. He will score prolific points. If the new line can keep the defenses off of him, and, he can get through the season healthy, then, he is a much greater value then this placement.    July 23, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/minnesota/index.html" MINNESOTA | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/58_brad_johnson.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/58_brad_johnson.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 57. Domanick Davis Another Cannon Fodder player. At this point on the list, these players, that will be taken much earlier by someone else, would have some value. If I'm in the seventh round and need depth, then, I'll buy into the working out in the off-season story. That's still not going to improve that O-line! Carr will be on his butt again and often. He is a real gamer to keep going out there, and, the most amazing thing, is that he doesn't roll over with a minor or major injury. What a durable guy! That can't be said for Davis. He does score and get some yards, and, if you've spent you're early picks in other places then you have no choice. Houston is simply a bad team with a tough schedule. How could it not be tough if you're the worst team in the league!?! My philosophy is to always have players that are on good teams or at least prolific offenses. Houston will have games where they do not score; maybe even in a row! Buy into Davis if you want, Houston  needs to use their next #1 on the best Offensive lineman in the draft! July 23, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/houston/index.html" HOUSTON | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/57_domanick_dav.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/57_domanick_dav.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 56. Santana Moss Santana Moss is on my cannon fodder list. In '05, 4th with 85 total: 1,17,Bye,1,2,17,8,0,1,1,1,7,1,1,1,25,1 If you analyze his scoring it came in bunches and if you take away three games he didn't help his fantasy owner very much. Three games does not make a fantasy season. Now that would be OK if you plugged him in and needed a victory, but, someone will draft him in the second or third round and he's definitely not worth that. I put him even this high because of his home-run ability. Defenses became aware of him quickly and game planned accordingly. They certainly respected his speed, but he was too easy to take out and didn't overcome. Steve Smith is game planned for, too. Washington will have a great season and Portis will run all over the place. Moss will have opportunities to do what he did last year. In a three-receiver-starting fantasy league, he's worth playing until he proves that the added receiver depth is diluting his chances at scoring, too much. He's fast and runs good routes. He is a good player, but, at this point, Washington has many players. Santana Moss will not be on any of my teams, but, gets the respect of placement for what he accomplished in total last year. July 23, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/washington/index.html" WASHINGTON | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/santana_moss_is.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/santana_moss_is.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 55. Lendale White I'm concerned, that, with his future on the line and millions of dollars at risk, a gifted young man would show up at the Combine overweight and unprepared. If Norm Chow was still at U.S.C., how far would he have dropped? It looks like Chow believes in him and he seems to be responding to the old coach. I've read reports that he is getting into shape and working hard. Chris Brown has been a huge underachiever. His running style makes him prone to injury. The team seemed to think they could get a clone of Eddie George and it would work out. Brown has already requested a trade. (Strangely his agent is saying that he is passing on the request but not going to be serious about it. What, a responsible agent?) These events have ratcheted White up the list, in an increasingly thin runningback field. An R.B.B.C. is likely, but when Brown goes down to injury, or attitude, then White will probably perform well. Tennessee will move the ball. Volek is a better passer then analysts give him credit for. It's different when you are thrust into a game from the bench, as opposed to, having a pre-season camp preparing to be the starter. White will see the field, and, by splitting time, will be able to handle the longer, Pro season. He saw more time on the field then Bush and was always the pile mover. He couldn't move the last pile, but, that was clearly the wrong call by the coaches that day. Kevin Mawae is one of the greatest centers in the game, and, brings instant chops to a still developing line. He will be a rock and a mover. The schedule is difficult, but, the Titans will advance the ball. White will score more touchdowns in the second half of the season and that may be just when you need them. You don't want a team that comes out strong and fades, leaving you at the doorstep of the playoffs. Planning for the second half of the season is good strategy in the later choices of the draft. This philosophy netted Larry Johnson, for me, last year.  July 23, 2006 in HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/tennessee/index.html" TENNESSEE | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/55_lendale_whit.html" Permalink | HYPERLINK "http://fantasyfootballdrafthub.typepad.com/win/2006/07/55_lendale_whit.html" \l "comments" Comments (0) 54. Donovan McNabb I would love to put McNabb higher, he was my keeper last year, but... When it comes to Philadelphia, McNabb is the only fantasy scorer. I think the nature of his physical injuries will easily heal in the off-season. He showed a toughness that exemplifies his champions spirit. From the beginning when the Philly crowd booed his selection at the draft he has had to deal with adversity. McNabb is an imposing figure. Fou