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Chicago Bears Lose Key Backup For Season
Published: September 5, 2009
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In the first quarter of a meaningless fourth preseason game against the Cleveland Browns on Thursday night, the Chicago Bears were dealt a harsh blow when backup running back Kevin Jones was lost for the season with torn ligaments in his ankle.
Jones, once a high first round draft pick by the Detroit Lions out of Virginia Tech, has a resume filled with catastrophic injuries, mostly to his legs. He had reported to camp in fantastic shape this year, though, and the Bears had not only committed to him taking pressure off sophomore star Matt Forte, but even the idea of using the two in the same backfield.
Now those dreams are gone.
The Bears will now enter the season with Adrian Peterson (not the superstar, the special teams ace) and Garrett Wolfe (who got dunked on by Mighty Mouse a couple weeks ago) as their backups.
There’s a good chance Bears GM Jerry Angelo is hunting the waiver wire this evening.
Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com
2009 Detroit Lions Fantasy Football Preview
Published: September 4, 2009
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Calvin Johnson.
OK, so there’s more to the Lions’ fantasy preview than just their marquee wide receiver. It’s no secret that the Lions had a dismal 2008 season, but from a fantasy perspective there were some points to be had from the worst team in NFL history.
As a new coaching staff, and the top overall draft pick, get used to the Motor City, there are certainly going to be growing pains for the players, coaches and fans. But there might be some smiles for fantasy owners.
Quarterback: Matthew Stafford
2008 Numbers: n/a Rookie
2009 Projections: 240-440 (54.5%) 2,800 yards 18 TDs 13 INTs
Thoughts:
Stafford, the Number One overall pick in this year’s draft might have won the starting job over Daunte Culepper as much because Culpepper can’t stay on the field (or stay effective) as he did because of his play. But there’s a strong chance that the Lions won’t allow the face of their future to get too beat up on another season that doesn’t look like a winner.
Stafford likely won’t be asked to throw the ball a ton, and will likely lose some snaps to Culpepper along the way, but as long as he has Megatron (Johnson) to catch anything near him he’ll get some touchdowns.
Considerations:
The Lions really lack a number two (or three… or four…) receiver, so Johnson will be the focal point of every secondary the Lions play this year. Stafford also has a history of being a little bit of a happy-chucking throw first and ask questions later quarterback, so his touchdown-interception ratio might be near even.
Running Back: Kevin Smith SLEEPER
2008 Numbers: Rushing – 238 att 976 yards 4.1 yds/carry Receiving – 39 rec 286 yards 8 total TDs
2009 Projections: Rushing – 330 att 1,250 yards 3.8 yds/carry Receiving – 40 rec 300 yards 11 total TDs
Thoughts:
Because Detroit had such a bad overall season last year, and because Chicago’s Matt Forte’s numbers across the board were so strong, Smith disappeared in the Lions’ mess. Many people forget that, at the beginning of last year, the Lions had Rudi Johnson penciled in as their starting running back. Despite only 238 carries, Smith almost cracked 1,000 yards.
In 2009 there are a number of factors that should lead any fantasy owner to feel good about Smith as second running back. The biggest reason is his increased workload both because of his full-time starter status and Stafford’s learning curve. The other huge reason the Lions will need Smith to produce is to keep safeties honest and not allow teams to single out Johnson in the passing game. Smith is an above average receiver, which could score points as well.
Considerations:
The Lions will have a rookie quarterback and two weapons, Smith and Johnson, for teams to game plan for this year. Teams might opt to load up the box and force the rookie to beat them with his arm, which could hurt Smith’s yards per carry. The future looks bright for Smith, but he’s going to have to earn every yard until Stafford shows he can beat people.
Wide Receiver: Calvin Johnson
2008 Numbers: 78 rec 1,331 yards 12 TDs
2009 Projections: 95 rec 1,600 yards 12 TDs
Thoughts:
What’s scary for opponents is Johnson, who was Detroit’s only respected offensive player for most of last year, still went over 1,300 yards and had 12 touchdowns, now has a young gun quarterback to get him the ball and a running back, Smith, who will force teams to pay attention to the running game.
The Lions are going to be bad again in 2009, so Culpepper/Stafford are going to be asked to throw the ball a lot. If the ball’s in the air, there’s a good chance Megatron’s going to catch it. He could have an incredible fantasy season in Detroit again this year.
Considerations:
Pretty much everything I said about Smith holds true here. If Johnson has a huge season it will be because a rookie quarterback is making plays and Smith avoids a sophomore slump. He’s going to draw a double team every time the ball is snapped, but he did for most of last year and look at his numbers.
Tight End: Brandon Pettitgrew
2008 Numbers: n/a Rookie
2009 Projections: 35 rec 300 yards 5 TDs
Thoughts:
He might be a nice pick up for a bye week, and might become one of Stafford’s best friends in the red zone over time, but as a rookie I wouldn’t expect a ton of production.
Considerations:
Johnson’s going to get the ball all day. Pettitgrew will be the quarterback’s third option most of the time, and considering the Lions’ line, whether it’s Stafford or Culpepper, the quarterback might not last that long in the pocket.
Defense/Special Teams
2008 Numbers: really, really bad
2009 Projections: probably not a whole lot better than last year
Thoughts:
Maybe valuable in a league that scores for return yards?
Considerations:
They upgraded in a number of places, but they’re still a bad unit. Don’t waste a roster spot on the Lions’ defense.
Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com
2009 Green Bay Packers Fantasy Football Preview
Published: September 4, 2009
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The Packers are working through a dynamic preseason environment that is unique in the franchise’s long, storied history. After almost two full decades of Brett Favre pulling the trigger, 2008 was the dawning of the Aaron Rodgers Era. How, and if, Rodgers could fill Favre’s shoes was the big question, both on the field and for fantasy owners last year.
This year, though, the Packers have confidence in their young quarterback. Rodgers was a stud last year, and the offense shouldn’t be the question. The defense, though, is in a state of transition. Dom Capers was brought on board to move the Packers to a 3-4 defense, with All Pro defensive end Aaron Kampmann picking his hand up and becoming a linebacker.
There are lots of unique questions heading into 2009 for the Packers, and we haven’t even talked about winning games.
Quarterback: Aaron Rodgers
2008 Numbers: 341-536 (63.6 percent) 4,038 yards 28 TDs 13 INTs (207 rushing yards, 4 rushing TDs)
2009 Projections: 370-570 (65.0 percent) 4,200 yards 30 TDs 16 INTs (150 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD)
Thoughts:
Rodgers has a lot of great weapons to play with, and his running game is questionable. He’s also on a team that should challenge for a division crown in an offensively loaded division. Translation: he’s going to have to win games with his arm.
Unless Ryan Grant wakes up and begins running like he did for half of 2007, Rodgers is going to have to win games every week with his arm. His touchdown-to-interception ratio was solid enough in what was truly his rookie season last year to give fantasy owners confidence that he’s a top-five fantasy quarterback.
Considerations:
The Packers offensive line has had issues, and the potential for Grant to be sub-par like he was in 2008 will have teams loading up their nickle packages earlier in games if the Packers become too pass-happy. His picks might go up if Grant’s numbers don’t improve.
Running Back: Ryan Grant
2008 Numbers: Rushing – 312 att 1,203 yards 3.9 yds/carry Receiving – 18 rec 116 yards 5 total TDs
2009 Projections: Rushing – 345 att 1,300 yards 3.8 yds/carry Receiving – 15 rec 100 yards 8 total TDs
Thoughts:
Grant had his highs and lows in 2008, with two 20 yard rushing performances in the first four weeks last year. He also had issues getting into the end zone last year, with only four rushing touchdowns. He still ran for over 1,200 yards, however. If he sees an increase in his carries this year (to take pressure off Rodgers and bring another body into the box), his gross production should increase, even if his yards per carry doesn’t go up.
Considerations:
He isn’t a primary target in the red zone for the Packers. With the weapons the Packers have outside, and Grant’s limited role in the passing game, he’s a one-dimensional threat that won’t score a lot again this year.
He also lost three of his four fumbles last year. With the Packers questions on their offensive line, and if the 3-4 defense doesn’t keep opponents out of the end zone, the probability of shoot outs on Sundays for the Packers could limit Grant’s touchdowns.
Wide Receiver: Greg Jennings
2008 Numbers: 80 rec 1,292 yards 9 TDs
2009 Projections: 95 rec 1,550 yards 11 TDs
Thoughts:
This could be the year that Jennings emerges as an elite fantasy receiver, even more than his 2008 season has already labeled him a top-tier receiver. As I noted before, if the Packers 3-4 doesn’t take right away, and with the talented offenses in the division, Jennings could blow up this year and join names like Fitzgerald and Moss at the top of the receiver list.
Considerations:
Donald Driver isn’t what he once was, and Donald Lee isn’t a vertical threat at tight end. If the Packers cannot establish a quality running game, opposing secondaries could begin focusing their coverages on Jennings. The Packers have some nice pieces on offense, but need someone to compliment Jennings each week to keep him open.
Tight End: Donald Lee
2008 Numbers: 39 rec 303 yards 5 TDs
2009 Projections: 55 rec 600 yards 7 TDs
Thoughts:
Lee didn’t get much of the ball last year, but considering one in every eight receptions was in the end zone is a fantastic ratio.
As his role continues to emerge, and as Rodgers grows into more of a field general, Lee should see more balls coming his way. He shouldn’t be at the top of your tight end rankings, but could be a valuable backup or decent starter in Green Bay’s offense.
Considerations:
Lee’s numbers will probably be tied to Grant’s production this year. If Grant’s effective on first and second downs, Lee stands to see fewer balls. If Grant struggles, Lee could get the ball, especially in the red zone, more often.
Defense/Special Teams SLEEPER
2008 Numbers: 23.8 ppg 27 sacks 22 INTs 6 Def TD 1,785 total return yards 2 return TDs
2009 Projections: 25.0 ppg 20 sacks 14 INTs 1 Def TDs 1,500 return yards 0 return TDs
Thoughts:
This might be one of the biggest question marks for a fantasy owner entering the 2009 season. The Packers weren’t an exceptional defense last year, but the eight defense/special team touchdowns they scored last year rank among the best in football.
The Packers still have an excellent, ball-hawking secondary and good athletes all over the field. The goal for the Packers, if they want to contend for the division crown, will be to keep the score lower than they did last year.
They’re the sleeper for the Packers because, if they take to the scheme and other teams in the division want to throw the ball with Cutler, Favre and Stafford/Culpepper, their ballhawks might get a pick-six and the turnovers might be big again in 2009
Considerations:
I don’t think you can count on the touchdowns again this year, and with Capers moving Kampmann to a linebacker spot I don’t think you can guarantee the sacks will stay near 30 either. Indeed, there will be a learning curve this year for the Packers defenders.
Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com
2009 Minnesota Vikings Fantasy Football Preview
Published: September 4, 2009
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Just like in Chicago, Minneapolis is selling jerseys for their new quarterback faster than they can put the letters and numbers on the jersey.
Both teams, and their cities, are excited about adding a quarterback with a big arm, but there are headaches from each quarterback’s past that both franchises have their public relations teams handling every day.
The similarities end there, though. Jay Cutler’s a nice, 25-year old quarterback with his entire career ahead of him still. Brett Favre is already one of the greatest of all time.
The addition of Favre is a fascinating issue to work through, both as a fan and as a fantasy owner. The implications of the two-year, $25 million contract on such a talented team could run ripple effects throughout a fantasy draft, both positively and negatively. For the Vikings, though, it’s up to Brad Childress and his staff to make everything work together to win games.
Quarterback: Brett Favre
2008 Numbers: 343-522 (65.7 percent) 3,472 yards 22 TDs 22 INTs
2009 Projections: 277-450 (61.5 percent) 3,100 yards 19 TDs 13 INTs
Thoughts:
This is a really, really tough situation to predict across the board for fantasy this season. The Vikings could go one of two directions: they could either get their money’s worth by letting Favre throw the ball 30-40 times a game with the talented receivers he has, or they could stay a running team with Adrian Peterson carrying the mail most of the offensive plays.
If the Vikings take the ball out of Peterson’s hands, they’re foolish. He’s their meal ticket, the bread winner of the franchise and should stay that way. Favre should be treated as the older, rented quarterback that he is and should be asked to, dare I say it, “manage the game” instead of being the headliner.
With Peterson in Minnesota, unless he gets hurt, the Vikings should continue pounding the ball all Sunday, every Sunday. That should bring Favre’s numbers back to the middle of the quarterback pool.
Considerations:
How healthy is Favre? Can he stay healthy? Will he be okay playing a supporting role to Peterson? Will the coaching staff be able to resist the temptation to let Favre be the Brett Favre fans have watched making plays for the last two decades? And can Favre avoid making the critical mistake?
Running Back: Adrian Peterson
2008 Numbers: Rushing – 363 att 1,760 yards 4.8 yds/carry Receiving – 21 rec 125 yards 10 total TDs
2009 Projections: Rushing – 340 att 1,700 yards 5.0 yds/carry Receiving – 15 rec 100 yards 12 total TDs
Thoughts:
Cut and paste everything I said about Favre here. If the Vikings know what’s good for them, you shouldn’t see a drop off in Peterson’s production and he should continue to be among the top fantasy running backs in the game.
Based on the preseason, there hasn’t been an indication that Peterson shouldn’t be consistent with his historical averages. In fact, if anything you should see his yards per carry go up (from almost five?) because teams won’t be able to load up the box as much because of respect for Favre.
Considerations:
Remember to be fully aware of your league’s scoring when considering a running back as early as Peterson generally comes off the board (top five overall picks). Many leagues on ESPN and Yahoo are scoring receptions, but not rushing attempts.
If that’s the case, you will want to consider that when thinking about Peterson, who isn’t a factor in the passing game. He’ll get you yards, and he’ll get you touchdowns, but there might be points left on the table with another back if receptions score.
One other point to consider is that Peterson puts the ball on the ground; he coughed the ball up nine times last year, losing four of the fumbles.
Wide Receiver: Bernard Berrian
2008 Numbers: 48 rec 964 yards 7 TDs
2009 Projections: 75 rec 1,050 yards 6 total TDs
Thoughts:
Berrian had a nice 2008 season, catching balls from Tavaris Jackson and Gus Frerotte. He averaged over 20 yards per reception and his seven quiet touchdowns were a surprising total for an offense that was so dominated by the running attack.
Because of Favre’s presense in Minnesota, Berrian should be a more significant factor on a weekly basis in the game plan. His reception total should go up, but, as I mentioned in my noted for Peterson, the respect for Favre’s arm will back up the secondary and there won’t be as much open turf around Berrian.
Considerations:
Favre has always been a big believer in tight ends in the red zone, and Percy Harvin’s athletic ability will make him a popular target as well. So while Berrian should see more of the ball and an increase in gross yardage, his touchdowns could decrease.
Tight End: Visanthe Shiancoe SLEEPER
2008 Numbers: 42 rec 596 yards 7 TDs
2009 Projections: 85 rec 850 yards 9 TDs
Thoughts:
Favre has always found his tight ends, and Shiancoe’s athletic ability should ake him just as popular. Shiancoe came on late in the season and put up nice numbers, putting up very similar stats to Chicago’s Greg Olsen. This year, just like Olsen, he should see a pleasant jump in his scoring and he should be a nice sleeper to get you catches and touchdowns with decent yards as well.
Considerations:
Last year, Peterson was stuffed on six of 18 attempts inside their opponent’s 10 yard line. That should, in theory, make Shiancoe a popular red zone option. And Favre has historically looked for tight ends in the red zone, which builds the case for him to get more touchdowns. But fewer defenders in the box because of Favre, coupled with additional respect for Shiancoe’s abilities, should help Peterson get into the end zone more often.
Wide Receiver: Percy Harvin
2008 Numbers: n/a – Rookie
2009 Projections: 35 rec 400 yards 1,300 return yards 3 total TDs
Thoughts:
Harvin projects as a Devin Hester Light, used in a number of formations and handling the ball in any number of ways to simply get him, with the ball, into space. He could develop into a dangerous punt and kickoff returner, and could probably be counted on more for special teams touchdowns in his rookie year than receiving touchdowns.
Considerations:
He’s a rookie, on a running offense. He’s also listed at 192 pounds, which I’ll believe when I’m the mayor of New York. Like Hester, it won’t be easy for the Vikings to find ways to get Harvin the ball, but they won’t have to because of Peterson. He’ll get what he can, but will always be a threat to take it to the house.
Running Back: Chester Taylor
2008 Numbers: Rushing – 101 att 399 yards 4.0 yds/carry Receiving – 45 rec 399 yards 6 total TDs
2009 Projections: Rushing – 125 att 440 yards 3.5 yds/carry Receiving – 35 rec 440 yards 6 total TDs
Thoughts:
Taylor gets the hand-me-down yards from Peterson, but his versatility in the receiving game might make him a good late round pick in a deep league. The respect for Favre’s arm, and willingness to go deep, should raise Taylor’s yards per catch by pulling the secondary off the line of scrimmage.
Considerations:
He’s Adrian Peterson’s backup.
Defense/Special Teams
2008 Numbers: 20.8 ppg 45 sacks 12 INTs 0 Def TD 1,642 total return yards 1 return TDs
2009 Projections: 22.9 ppg 37 sacks 14 INTs 0 Def TDs 1,800 return yards 2 return TDs
Thoughts:
They have one of the best tackling corners in the game in Antoine Winfield and one of the best pass rushers in Jared Allen. They’ll continue to hold down opponents’ running games, and the addition of Harvin could get additional yardage and another touchdown on special teams this year.
Considerations:
The division around the Vikings improved. Jay Cutler is in Chicago, and he’s more mobile than Kyle Orton is in his best dreams. The sacks won’t come as easily, but the interceptions could increase. The upgraded talent might see opponents scoring more on the Vikings as well.
Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com
2009 Chicago Bears Fantasy Football Preview
Published: September 4, 2009
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There hasn’t been this much fantasy football hype in Chicago… ever? Even when Devin Hester emerged as a return jedi, his fantasy value was limited because of most scoring systems. But now that the Bears made the incredible, unthinkable trade to bring Jay Cutler to Chicago, the fans (and many major media outlets) are thinking the sky is the limit in Chicago.
Quarterback: Jay Cutler
2008 Numbers: 384-616 (62.3 percent) 4,526 yards 18 TDs 11 INTs
2009 Projections: 300-500 (60 percent) 3,800 yards 24 TDs 10 INTs
Thoughts:
In case you haven’t read or heard, Cutler doesn’t have a big time, No. 1 receiver in Chicago like Brandon Marshall was for him in Denver. But that doesn’t mean the cupboard is bare by any means. Eddie Royal’s skill set is very similar to that of Hester, and Cutler did a good job of incorporating the tight end in Denver and now has a very good, athletic Greg Olsen to work with in Chicago.
The Bears will continue to be a “run-first” offense, but Cutler is certainly the best quarterback Bears fans have seen in over 20 years. He won’t be asked to carry the Bears’ offense as he was in Denver because of the Broncos’ miserable running game last year, either. His overall points should come down some from last year, but he’s still a solid fantasy play.
Considerations:
There are a number of items that need to be considered with Cutler. First, the Vikings will get two cracks at him this year and they have a great run defense. That being said, their pass defense has been vulnerable and could lead to Cutler being asked to put the ball up more. There are also very valid questions about the Bears receivers and their offensive line.
Running Back: Matt Forte
2008 Numbers: Rushing – 316 att 1,238 yards 3.9 yds/carry Receiving – 63 rec 477 yards 12 total TDs
2009 Projections: Rushing – 310 att 1,350 yards 4.3 yds/carry Receiving – 45 rec 400 yards 15 total TDs
Thoughts:
In a league that is becoming more specialized with more teams opting for a two-back attack, the Bears have a rare running back in Forte that can play all three downs.
Forte was one of the elite running backs in the entire NFL last year, and should benefit from Cutler’s presence by seeing fewer crowded running lanes. It is doubtful, though, that the Bears will ask him to handle the ball nearly 380 times like they did in 2008.
You should expect Forte’s receptions to drop, but that doesn’t mean he’ll disappear from Cutler’s radar. He’s still a very good back coming out on routes and should still be a dangerous weapon through the air. Also consider that Forte only fumbled once in 379 touches last year… amazing.
Considerations:
Forte’s receptions should drop some and the Bears, realizing they have a stud work horse running back, had committed to backup Kevin Jones getting more touches this year. Now, however, Jones is out for the year with an ankle injury. In a competitive division the Bears aren’t going to win games with backups handling the rock too many times per week.
Tight End: Greg Olsen
2008 Numbers: 54 rec 574 yards 5 TDs
2009 Projections: 90 rec 1,000 yards 10 TDs
Thoughts:
Olsen has emerged at Cutler’s favorite target and should see a significant jump in his production this season. Indeed, Olsen could become an elite fantasy player this year if he’s effective in the red zone. Considering the Broncos two tight ends split 72 catches and seven touchdowns last year, and the Bears don’t have a vertical threat like Brandon Marshall, Olsen could easily eclipse the Broncos’ 2008 numbers alone this year.
Considerations:
The Bears will need to find someone on the outside to stretch the field or opposing safeties will begin sitting on Olsen in the second half of the season. That means either Earl Bennett or Hester is going ot need to emerge early in the season as an effective option in the passing game.
Wide Receiver: Devin Hester
2008 Numbers: 51 rec 665 yards 877 return yards 3 total TDs
2009 Projections: 50 rec 650 yards 600 return yards 5 total TDs
Thoughts:
Last year was Year One of the Bears’ great experiment: moving the greatest return man since Deion Sanders into a receiver. There was certainly a learning curve, and with Orton having limited abilities in a vertical passing game Hester had to work underneath routes more than the Bears, or Hester, were probably comfortable.
This year in the preseason, Hester has shown a little of that learning curve remaining as he’s misjudged a number of throws from Cutler and is still learning about Cutler’s strength. Against Denver, though, Hester broke a punt for over 50 yards and he still has the ability to take any kick to the house.
Considerations:
Hester could see his role transition back into a game-changing punt returner more than as a No. 1 receiver. Olsen’s development as a threat could hurt Hester’s receiving production.
However, because of how Hester’s contract is structured, and the Bears need for someone to stretch the field to open up lanes for Olsen and Forte to work underneath, Hester will continue to be a key part of the Bears offense.
Wide Receiver: Earl Bennett SLEEPER
2008 Numbers: n/a
2009 Projections: 55 rec 850 yards 5 TDs
Thoughts:
Bennett is the sleeper on the Bears this year, with a lot of the focus from Chicago’s media being placed on the Bears receivers not named Hester. He was Cutler’s favorite target at Vanderbilt and has shown enough in the preseason to make the Bears, their fans, and the Chicago media think this guy could be a decent receiver this season.
Considerations:
His career production: zero. He has no NFL catches to his credit, so despite his experience with Cutler Game One in Green Bay will be his learning curve.
Defense/Special Teams
2008 Numbers: 21.9 ppg 28 sacks 22 INTs 1 Def TD 1,859 total return yards 0 return TDs
2009 Projections: 18.5 ppg 30 sacks 25 INTs 2 Def TDs 2,100 return yards 2 return TDs
Thoughts:
This unit, led by Brian Urlacher, has a lot to prove this year. Though the offense wasn’t certainly as potent as it should be in 2009, it was the defense that disappointed the most last year. With Rod Miranelli now coaching the defensive linemen and Urlacher saying he’s fully healthy for the first time since 2006, this unit should improve.
Considerations:
Um…Adrian Peterson…Aaron Rodgers…Brett Favre…Calvin Johnson…Greg Jennings…
The NFC North is loaded with some of the most spectacular offensive players in the NFL. Any defense in this division will have a lot of turnover opportunities, but could also give up a lot of points.
The Bears have a lot of health concerns on defense, especially in their secondary and Tommie Harris, and they cannot afford for this to become a MASH unit like it was in 2008 against the weapons in their division.
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2009 NFC North Fantasy Football Preview
Published: September 4, 2009
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As the 2009 NFL season is nearly upon us, fantasy drafts are approaching, as well. There a many different ways to break down the fantasy potential of players, the best of which is the competition those players will face.
With that in mind, I am going to provide team-by-team analysis over the coming days for every NFL team, looking at some of the improvements, question marks, and expectations for the season. Who could be this year’s breakout star, like DeAngelo Williams? And, on the opposite side of that spectrum, who could be a bust?
In a logical progression through the NFL, I will provide these previews both for the individual teams as well as a divisional overview. After all, if the competition of a player plays a significant role in that player’s success, where better to begin an evaluation than their division?
To begin our look around the NFL, we’ll start in the middle of the country, with the NFC North: the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers, and Detroit Lions.
Quarterbacks
Rank: Aaron Rodgers, Jay Cutler, Brett Favre, Daunte Culpepper/Matthew Stafford
Sleeper: Stafford
Overview:
This might be one of the most fun divisions to watch for quarterbacks this year. Rodgers projects as a top-five quarterback with the weapons around him.
Cutler certainly has the ability to be a big play guy, but has some questions in the receiving corps that still need to be answered.
Favre’s statistical expectations can’t really be confidently projected, because of the strong running game in Minnesota. Can Favre be a “game manager” while his heart still wants to chuck?
The unsettled situation in Detoit is something that could evolve with the season. Either quarterback will have Calvin Johnson to throw to, but which one’s on the field might be determined as much by the team’s record as it is by their production; if the Lions fall out of contention early, they might make the move to Stafford with an eye on the team’s future sooner than later.
Running Backs
Rank: Adrian Peterson, Matt Forte, Kevin Smith, Ryan Grant
Sleeper: Smith, Chester Taylor
Overview:
Much like the quarterback position, the NFC North has two of the elite running backs in the entire NFL entering 2009. There is going to be one significant consideration every manger will want to make when picking their running back this year, though: how is the league scoring?
Many ESPN and Yahoo leagues are scoring points for receptions this season, but many aren’t scoring for rushing attempts. This is something you’re going to want to consider when taking that long, hard look at Peterson with a top-three pick.
Peterson’s a special running back, but hasn’t traditionally been used as a receiving back. He accumulated 1,760 rushing yards last year, but only caught only 21 balls for 125 yards in the entire season. If receptions are a consideration, he won’t get you many points there.
On the other hand, Forte had 63 catches and eclipsed 1,700 total yards last year. If Cutler checks down because of the questionable Chicago receiving corps, Forte could benefit and be a favorite target in 2009 just as he was for Kyle Orton last year. This could, indeed it should, elevate Forte into a top-ten overall fantasy pick this year.
Smith quietly had a solid season in Detroit last year, while the rest of the house collapsed around Johnson and him. He fought Rudi Johnson for playing time early in the season and nearly totalled 1,000 rushing yards by the end of the season. Like Forte, this second-year back will also get you some points in the passing game; he caught 39 balls last year. If the Lions make the move to Stafford, they could rely more on the run, leading to bigger numbers from Smith.
Grant wasn’t in very good shape last year, and his numbers reflected that at the end of the season. While he should bounce back, the emergence of Rodgers could take the ball out of Grant’s hands.
Chester Taylor could vulture some touchdowns away from Peterson in Minnesota as more of a versatile receiving back, and he could be a nice late-round pick.
Wide Receiver
Rank: Calvin Johnson, Greg Jennings, Bernard Berrian, Devin Hester, Percy Harvin, Donald Driver
Sleeper: Harvin, Earl Bennett
Overview:
Let the record show that after Johnson and Jennings, there should be a fairly significant drop-off before the rest of the receivers in this division. Johnson could also see his numbers become volatile with a potentially-evolving quarterback situation in Detroit, which leads me to believe that Jennings might be a safer pick late in the season.
Berrian and Harvin, however, could be wild cards. If the Vikings allow Favre to earn his $25 million contract and throw the ball, Berrian might be the happiest receiver in football. Harvin has shown some flashes of becoming something special as a slot, and could work his way into decent playing time this year.
In Chicago, the receivers are a huge question mark. Hester has already been fooled by Cutler’s arm strength on a couple occasions in the preseason, and the biggest beneficiary of his continued learning curve could be Greg Olsen.
A nice sleeper could be Bennett, though, who was Cutler’s favorite target during their one season together at Vanderbilt. Bennett has emerged as the starting receiver opposite Hester for the Bears.
Tight End
Rank: Greg Olsen, Donald Lee, Visanthe Shiancoe, Desmond Clark, Brandon Pettitgrew
Sleeper: Shiancoe
Overview:
Olsen might stand to be the biggest beneficiary of the Bears addition of Cutler. He was on the cusp of emerging as a legit fantasy tight end at the end of last year, and has quickly become Cutler’s favorite target in Chicago during the preseason. He could see a significant jump in receptions, yards, and touchdowns this season, while Clark could get some catches in the red zone and end zone as well this year.
Lee is an athletic tight end that could put up good numbers with Rodgers continuing to emerge as an elite quarterback in Green Bay.
Shiancoe, much like Olsen, could benefit from his new quarterback this year in big ways. In Favre’s last year in Green Bay, tight ends caught nine touchdowns in the same system Minnesota uses now. Shiancoe could be a great fantasy sleeper this year.
Detroit’s unsettled quarterback situation, coupled with Pettitgrew being a rookie, makes him an option only in a bye week or deeper leagues.
Team Defenses
Rank: Minnesota, Chicago, Green Bay, Detroit
Sleeper: Green Bay
Overview:
Minnesota is one of the best defenses in the NFL, and should be a solid fantasy play all year.
In Chicago, the health of their secondary is a huge question mark that hasn’t been settled, but they have always taken the ball away well under Lovie Smith.
The wild card in the division, indeed what might play the biggest role in determining the division title, will be how the Packers adjust to Dom Capers’ 3-4 scheme. With Aaron Kampman moving to a linebacker slot instead of a traditional end, there could be a learning curve in a division with a lot of offensive talent.
Detroit made a lot of changes, but needed to after tossing a doughnut last year.
Kickers
Rank: Robbie Gould, Mason Crosby, Ryan Longwell, Jason Hanson
Sleeper: Hanson
Overview:
All four of these kickers, especially the two that play in domes, are solid fantasy plays and should put up good fantasy points in 2009 considering the offenses in the division. Hanson emerges as a sleeper because he’s always been good from long range and, with the struggles the Lions have had, he might be asked to kick a lot of field goals.
Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com
Fantasy Football Rankings: Wide Receiver
Published: August 25, 2009
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This is the week for fantasy football drafts, so as I prepare for a few of my own, I thought I would share my position rankings, moving now to the receivers.
In my mind, there are a number of things that need to be considered when ranking wideouts.
The athletic ability of a receiver doesn’t guarantee success. He has to have a quarterback that can get him the ball, a system that uses his abilities well, and an offense that passes with some regularity (cough, Tennessee, cough).
What also should not be ignored is the personnel around the receiver. Did a team bring in a big time running back? Did they spend money on another receiver?
Whether anyone wants to admit it or not, financial concerns do have a role in play calling.
I’m going to give you my top 25 receivers for this coming season, as that should cover you in most 10 to 12-team leagues.
Why Detroit Is the Perfect Home for Marvin Harrison
Published: August 22, 2009
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Marvin Harrison will be remembered as one of the great receivers of his generation after a long, fantastic career catching balls from Peyton Manning in Indianapolis.
But right now, Harrison is sitting at home, waiting for his phone to ring; the veteran was not brought back by Indy and is now, still, looking for work.
While every team’s fans have their own thoughts about Harrison, both as a receiver and in the wake of legal issues last year, there is one team that should have signed him weeks ago.
A marriage between Marvin Harrison and the Detroit Lions makes perfect sense.
Consider, first, the roster they have in place in Detroit. Mike Furrey is gone, leaving Calvin Johnson as their only legit receiver. He’s a big, physical deep threat; Harrison is none of those three.
Harrison could be a great compliment to Johnson in their passing game, and they need to fill that void.
But more than just the receiving corps in Detroit needs to be considered. Daunte Culpepper is trying to revitalize a career with the top overall draft pick, Matthew Stafford, pushing him for playing time.
Reality for Culpepper is, with a team that was biblically bad in 2008, the minute the team’s out of the playoff picture, his starting days are numbered. He might want a veteran receiver to get the ball to, along with Johnson.
Oh, and the Lions play in a dome; some have questioned Harrison’s ability to play outdoors at his age. That’s kind of a lay-up, though.
While being a sidekick to Johnson and a weapon for Culpepper are two significant pieces to why Harrison is perfect for Detroit, they barely scratch the surface of why this would work.
Think about the legendary work that Harrison did with Manning in Indianapolis. Together, they built a loser team into one of the most potent offenses in league history. Think of Harrison as much as a teacher as a player.
Harrison could teach Stafford what it took for Manning to become great.
Harrison could be the same mentor to Johnson he was to Reggie Wayne. Wayne’s skill set is very similar to Johnson’s… except he isn’t as big or as fast.
Wayne is now one of the elite receivers in all of football, which is largely why his former teacher, Harrison, is still unemployed.
Harrison could teach the other young pieces on the Detroit offense, like talented young running back Kevin Smith, what work ethic is, and how to be a professional.
Harrison could be the best, more relevant coach on the Detroit staff.
By adding Harrison to the 2009 offense in Detroit, he might make the Lions more competitive in more games.
But by adding Harrison to the 2009 Detroit roster, he could teach them to be elite in 2010 and beyond.
What Brett Favre Brings to Minnesota
Published: August 19, 2009
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It’s pretty simple: money. He’s going to sell tickets and jerseys. Just ask Stubhub about the meteoric rise in the average price of Vikings tickets on Tuesday, and it’s already showing on the bottom line.
But there’s a dark cloud on that green lining… what if this move doesn’t go well? What will we remember of the end of Brett Favre?
Let’s take a look at what it might become…
NEWS: Chicago Blackhawks Sign Center John Madden
Published: July 1, 2009
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Various media outlets are now reporting that the Chicago Blackhawks have now agreed to terms with center John Madden on the heels of adding Marian Hossa earlier on Wednesday.
Madden reportedly signed a one-year, $2.75 million contract.
Formerly of the New Jersey Devils, Madden scored 23 points last year and figures to replace Sami Pahlsson as the Hawks’ third center. He has two Stanley Cup championship rings to his credit.
