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Chris Henry: Remembering “Slim”
Published: December 19, 2009
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Dec. 19, 2009 – 1:45 p.m. PST
From the recent comments made by his teammates and the recent press clippings it is very easy to see that Henry was greatly loved by his team and was a favorite among all that really knew him.
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MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE
Published: September 22, 2009
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So What did we see in Week Two in the NFL
With so much to watch, I can only say thank you “DirecTV” and “Sunday ticket.” There is never too much football at my house on Sunday. With multiple screens and the ticket I not only caught all the action, but I saw plenty.
I watched as Drew Brees and his unstoppable passing game made the Eagles defense look Pop-Warner. For much of the afternoon, the Saints passing game was flying in high gear and because the safeties couldn’t cheat up, their running was equally effective racking up 133-net yards.
I also followed the Jets-Patriots chess match and it was everything folks paid to see. Ryan brought a variety of blitzes and there’s no question that he was able to flush Brady at times and keep him off balance. Perhaps the most amazing part of watching this classic battle was the poise of the rookie quarterback. Sanchez plays years ahead of his time. He has that swagger and confidence on the field. ESPN analyst Trent Dilfer has described what Sanchez possesses as an “it” quality. The Jets are now 2-0, I think Dilfer is right.
I waited two weeks, but in two games I saw both offensive coordinators finally realize that only good things happen when you get the ball to your playmakers. Now the Rams just have too much to overcome, but when you give Steven Jackson enough touches (he had 21, still needs more) he will produce. With 17 carries and a couple of grabs, Jackson totaled 119-yards.
In the Bills-Buc’s matchup, Edwards finally took some shots and connected not just once, but twice with his receivers. Edwards could have had a third big pass play had Terrell Owens not let the opportunity slip through his hands, but he made amends in the 4th quarter with a 43-yard grab to seal the win for Buffalo.
During the course of my Sunday ritual of catching all the action (or as much as I can with multiple computers and three TV screens) I managed to follow;
- Brett Favre continues to play efficient and effective as a game manager, doing just what he needs to do (completing 23 of 27 passes) to help the Vikings be successful.
- Adrian Peterson (the future 2009 NFL rushing title king) runs hard for another 92-yards on the ground. He now has leads the NFL with 272-yards rushing.
- Kurt Warner dissects the Jaguar secondary on his way to setting an NFL record for completion percentage in a game. Warner completed 24 of 26 passes (92.3%).
- Michael Turner get his usual workload (28 carries) and normal production on Sunday (105-rushing yards).
- Larry Johnson earns every one of his 78-yards on the ground against the Raiders on Sunday. He had 24 carries, but I am skeptical about that continuing.
10 Things I remember from Sunday…
1. The Great Ray Lewis stepping up in the big moment and making the game saving run stuff against the Chargers. Poor Darren Sproles, never had a chance.
Remember to check back for more “Monday Morning Huddle!”
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Fantasy Football: Week One Water Cooler Chat
Published: September 18, 2009
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Do you sit your studs and do you drop your duds?
With your fantasy season typically being 13 or 14 weeks long, there is plenty of time for your team to get right. Most 10-12-team leagues include a two to three week playoff tree, so typically you don’t have to have the best record to make the playoffs, you just need to have the best team.
There were plenty of performances to frown about in Week One, but not many key ones warrant any drastic action like dropping your stud or Week One dud. In Tennessee, running back Chris Johnson is going to be fine after a less than stellar Week One performance, as is running back Matt Forte, who toted the rock 25 times against the Packers.
There is always something to be taken from the opening weekend performances, in some cases it sets the tone for some players (see Wayne, Moss, and Peterson), but many others they’re just getting started. While again I’ll reiterate not to panic, many fantasy owners will still have some difficult decisions to make looking ahead to Week Two.
Playing the GM Game…
The Fantasy GM
Hold Steady
Analysis: this ship will get righted, so don’t sit him.
In New Orleans, it’s much of the same with Marques Colston. Drew Brees was simply outstanding, spreading out the field and hitting all his targets. As a matter of fact, Colston was targeted six times on the day, while the team’s leading receiver, Devery Henderson, saw eight balls.
Analysis: again, don’t panic; Colston will get his looks, so don’t sit him.
While Monday night was probably an emotional roller coaster if you were a Bills fan and T.O. fantasy owner, this is a situation that you needn’t be too concerned about.
Analysis: the offense will open up as the season goes and T.O. will get his touches; don’t sit.
While the Bronco’s defense is not notorious, quarterback Carson Palmer was often forced to settle for a lot of underneath stuff and was at times pressured in the pocket. The Broncos defense actually played well, sacking Carson three times and not allowing a single pass play longer than 34 yards.
Some other notables that will be fine after a slow Week One start include: QB-Matt Schaub, RB-Brian Westbrook, RB-Darren McFadden, RB-Matt Forte, WR-Anquan Boldin, WR-Chris Henry, WR-Vincent Jackson, and WR-T.J. Houshmandzadeh.
The Panic Room
After a very poor showing on Thursday night against the Titans, Willie Parker owners will want to keep a close eye on this situation. Parker was very ineffective, albeit against a tough Titans defense, but the Steelers also called 47 pass plays; something to watch.
It’s worth mentioning with Cadillac making such a triumphant return in Week One and Derrick Ward running as well as he did, Earnest Graham could quickly become the odd man out.
Others notables that it might be time to shelve, at least for a bit, include: QB-Donovan McNabb (injured), QB-Jake Delhomme (ya think), QB-Brady Quinn (still a work in progress), RB-Larry Johnson, RB-Correll Buckhalter (timeshare), RB-Knowshon Moreno (see Buckhalter), and WR-Domenik Hixon.
Keep checking back for more Water Cooler chat…
By David G. Ortega
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NFL Football: Thursday Night Special
Published: September 10, 2009
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THURSDAY NIGHT SPECIAL PREVIEW
Fans have waited more than seven months, but it’s finally here—“The NFL season” kicks off Thursday night when the defending Super Bowl Champion Steelers host the Tennessee Titans. And how appropriate is it that the Steelers participated in last season’s final game and now they will participate in this year’s opener.
Deservedly so, the Steelers will be in the spotlight Thursday night when the 2009 season kicks off. With one of the league’s premiere elite quarterbacks in Ben Roethlisberger (two Super Bowl rings), there’s no question that the house will be rocking as the Steelers will look to repeat their impressive run of a year ago.
The Titans on the other side of the field will be filled with emotion, but they will also enter the 2009 schedule with a heavy heart. The team will be mourning the loss of former Titan quarterback Steve McNair, who passed away during the offseason, by wearing the No. 9 on the back of their helmets in his memory. Nonetheless, head coach Jeff Fischer will undoubtedly have his team prepared for what should be an epic battle.
The Matchup…
With an offseason of preparation the Steelers did not do much to change last season’s winning formula, except get healthy. Big Ben has looked in form this preseason in limited action. Although some may worry about his off-the-field distractions, it doesn’t seem to be affecting Big Ben.
At the ripe age of 27 and entering his sixth season, Big Ben already has two rings on his resume and has proved time and time again that he is clutch. The healthy return of Fast Willie Parker will be a huge upgrade to the Steelers offense that likes to control the clock and move the ground on the ball. If FWP can stay healthy, expect to see the Steelers offense to get back to doing what it does best, run the ball and stretch the field with Big Ben’s arm in the vertical game.
The Titans are coming off a season that was filled with great high hopes following their impressive start, but one that came crashing down when all the air was let out in their only post season appearance against Ravens last season. The most notable changes the team made this offseason came on the offense. The team signed former Steeler receiver Nate Washington (questionable) and free agent tight end Algee Crumpler (named starter).
The additions should help boost a lethargic passing game (ranked 27th last season), but there is no questions like the Steelers, the Titans prefer the ground game. Last season the Titans punched it in 24 times with the run and Thursday night they will face a Steeler defense that allowed a meager seven touchdowns (tied for second fewest). Still the Titans will try to establish ground superiority, but at some point expect to see Collins test drive his new aerial attack.
My Take…
Thursday night should be a classic matchup of two teams that like to get dirty in the trenches and pound the ball inside. With two throw back quarterbacks that have big-arms, the season opener promises to be a good one. Expect to see both quarterbacks take plenty of shots downfield as each offense will try to loosen up the defense.
The Titans will try to run early to set up some play action, but Steelers have a lot of playmakers on defense and plenty of speed up front. Expect the Steel Curtain to put a lot of pressure on Collins early and get the crowd going. With designed pressure and a suffocating run defense, turnovers will come into play here. I like the Steelers to take the early lead, apply the pressure and put this one to bed by the early part of the fourth quarter.
Prediction: Steelers 28, Titans 17
Fantasy Notes:
The Gamers:
Willie Parker won’t see too many holes, but without big Albert Haynesworth in the middle, he’ll be able to squeeze through a few times. Expect 20-plus carries and at least one big run (possibly to the house)!
Hines Ward is the steady play in the pass game. Roethlisberger is going to look downfield to Holmes quite often, but he’ll find Ward underneath more. Ward won’t rack up big yards, but he’ll get some catches (6-7 recepts) and could find the end-zone.
The Steelers defense will play big in front of the home crowd. Expect a couple of turnovers, a few sacks, and possibly a score!
White and Johnson are going to split carries (10-12 each), but against a stingy defense playing at home, neither is going to find much luck.
The Titan’s will likely see Collins throw more than he likes and with lots of pressure and no time, the short routes will be most popular. Expect Crumpler and Johnson to see their numbers called quite often, in a take what the defense gives you (not much) result.
IDP Watch:
Notable must plays
Steelers: Harrison and Woodley have a nose for the ball and Polamalu is always a playmaker.
Titans: Bulloch will be tracking FWP all night, while Finnegan is going to be busy with Ward. Expect Vanden Bosch to say hello to Big Ben.
Check back this Monday for our “Monday Night Preview”
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Fantasy Focus: Change is Good?
Published: September 10, 2009
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A Wild Offseason Filled with Change and Moves
Changes that will impact Fantasy…
Like every year in the NFL, the offseason can quite often and usually does impact fantasy in a great many ways. This past offseason has been no different with many changes taking place that will in one way or another impact fantasy;
My 10 Notable offseason Changes and Moves
1. Broncos Trade Cutler to Bears…
One of the offseason biggest and most surprising moves was the trading of quarterback Jay Cutler to Chicago. Once you get past the “how and why” you then have to examine the fantasy ramifications. Cutler’s influence in Chicago figures to greatly improve the tema’s passing game and increase the fantasy value of some of its’ skilled players such as wide receiver Devin Hester and tight end Greg Olsen.
2. Brett Favre un-retires and signs with Vikes…
This story began well into the offseason and just wouldn’t die. As it turned out it had more life than a cat with nine lives and now that Favre is in Minneapolis, the Vikings passing game receives a perceived upgrade.
The secondary affect is not so much what Favre can or can’t do, but what defenses think he might do. His presence will open holes for the leagues best runner and his arm should make a few of his targets viable fantasy options.
3. The Patriots trade Cassel to the Chiefs…
Was it a surprise, probably more of one to Josh McDaniels more than anyone else? The was the move that precluded the Cutler fiasco in Denver, but we have yet to see the payoff for Kansas City. The signing of Todd Haley as the team’s head coach is what gives this move its’ value.
After a successful 2008 campaign, Cassel will lead a wide open spread offense attack in Kansas City. The move would seem to give Cassel more value as a starter, but owners will have to wait and see.
4. The Jets trade up for Mark Sanchez…
A gutsy play for a first year coach, but already the rookie pick is drawing a lot of attention and looks like a brilliant move. It’s too early to tell, but Sanchez has taken great strides this preseason and appears set to lead a team that hopes to win now.
5. The Bills sign Terrell Owens…
This move actually began with the release of Owens from Dallas. While his absence from Texas will have its’ own repercussion, his arrival in Buffalo figures to offer more benefit. The T.O. affect is well chronicled and it’s certain his presence will add value to quarterback Trent Edwards and even benefit their number two receiver Lee Evans. Of course it is expected that T.O. will likely have initial success in town.
6. The Chiefs trade Gonzo to Atlanta...
When you add an offensive minded coach and trade for a your arm under center, the obvious move is to rid your team of its’ leading receiver. Well that’s what the Chiefs did when they traded tight end Tony Gonzalez to the Falcons.
His arrival in Atlanta will only elevate the play of second year quarterback Matt Ryan, while the Chiefs receiver Dwayne Bowe becomes the only draft able fantasy option on that squad. Already a star on the rise, Gonzo’s arrival will just help receiver Roddy White firmly entrench himself as one of the leagues best.
7. Mike Shanahan gets fired…
This was the ill-fated move that began all the turbulence that new head coach Josh McDaniels is now trying to smooth. Fortunately for fantasy owners, the Broncos owner Pat Bowlen just replaced one offensive minded coach with another. If and when McDaniels can get things settled in Denver, fantasy owners can expect to see several worthy candidates by draft time and early into the season.
8. The Colt’s release Marvin Harrison…
This was an expected move by the team once the offseason began. Many analysts and experts viewed the aging veteran as salary cap casualty, so this one was easy to read. Harrison’s departure opens the door for fourth year receiver Anthony Gonzalez, who is very likely to have his best season as a pro in 2009. There is likely to be a trickle affect as well, so many of Peyton’s weapons could see a rise in production this season.
9. The Seahawks sign TJ Houshmandzadeh…
With a healthy Matt Hasselbeck back in 2009, this move could turn out to be much bigger for the Seahawks than first projected. In Cincinnati Houshmandzadeh was a top-10 receiver, now in Seattle he will be the team’s definitive number one and go to receiver in the west coast offense. As good as TJ has been in the past, he could staring at his best season yet in the Northwest.
10. The Broncos draft Knowshon Moreno…
This move may have been the one that made the least sense at the time. After last season’s debacle down the stretch, it was quite apparent to many in Denver, the defense would need a lot of fixing in the offseason.
So the first thing the franchise does is bring in an offensive minded coach and then the second thing they do is draft a running back with their first pick. There’s no doubting Moreno’s talent, but is he worth taking him over a top-rated defensive impact player? Only time will answer that one.
Sure there were plenty more changes and moves to speak of, but these are my most notable for now. I’m sure I will have more to reflect on as the 2009 season progresses, but these will do for now.
By David Ortega
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So What’s Next for the Denver Broncos Josh?
Published: September 1, 2009
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Not Lovin’ it
Well it sure looks like that didn’t quite work out how you planned now did it Josh?
Just months ago, the Broncos’ bright up-and-coming new head coach seemed to have the world at his feet. He had just become one of the league’s newest and youngest NFL head coaches, he had inherited the leagues No. 2 offense, and he already had his franchise quarterback in place. From day one it seemed the plan was simple, but that was several months ago and now all has dramatically changed.
Caught with his hand in the cookie jar, the Bronco’s new mastermind was backed into a corner and had his hand forced when the team saw no other resolve than to trade their gifted and franchise quarterback Jay Cutler. Many had thought McDaniels’ arrival would lift Cutler to the next level, not send him packing on the next flight.
With Cutler out, McDaniels was dealt a new hand that included the Bears’ former starting quarterback Kyle Orton. While many felt that Broncos’ new brain-trust would have the savvy to turn Orton into the next Cassel and keep the Broncos offense rolling, Sunday night before a nationally audience may have been a small glimpse of things to come.
With Cutler on the other side of the field, Broncos’ fans witnessed what they used to have. Which is Cutler making mince meat of his former teammates. They also watched what they are stuck with basically limp off the field with an index finger injury on his (Orton’s) throwing hand.
The new field commander has at times looked efficient, but it is clear through three preseason games the team lacks the big play Cutler’s arm gave them a year ago.
Sure it’s easy to point out that the team is missing one of its best weapons in Pro Bowl receiver Brandon Marshall, but without a big arm he would likely be as ineffective as the rest of the wideouts.
The offense has no scare in it and defenses are going to jump on them early this season. Aside from the loss of Cutler, the Marshall saga has become another stigma that could very well define McDaniels’ tenure unless he can find a way to get this unit rolling.
On Sunday night the offense lost Orton with the finger injury and with Simms still ailing, Broncos fans have to wonder what the heck is going on. Clearly the situation in Denver can not be considered ideal, although it is not all lost.
The offense is clearly loaded with talent and playmakers such as; WR Eddie Royal, TE Tony Scheffler, and RB Peyton Hillis. The team will also be looking forward to the soon return of its top rookie selection, running back Knowshon Moreno. The rookie’s addition should also add another explosive dynamic to the offense, but with all that has surround his arrival this offseason, fans have to ask the Broncos’ head coach Josh McDaniels, “what’s next?”
At the moment it would seem that the team was far better off before McDaniels’ arrival, but since we are unable to go back in time, here we are. With Cutler gone and now Orton injured, the situation is quickly moving from bad to worse. What is not helping either is the suspension of Marshall. This is another obvious situation that would appear to be most critical to turning the ship around; getting Marshall back on the field.
It’s safe to say no one in Denver or around the NFL could have expected all that has surpassed in the Mile High city, but for the fans of Denver is pretty obvious what needs to happen now; McDaniels has disrupted the continuity of this franchise and repair is in order. That could be easier said than done, but the surest way of achieving complete resolve is winning.
To move forward from the devastation that was the Cutler-Trade and Marshall-Suspension, the Broncos must win. A task at the moment that looks monumental, but certainly many within the Broncos’ organization believe is possible.
This has always been the challenging task at hand (to win), but McDaniels chose to try this without Cutler and now must find a way to bring back his pro bowl receiver or make this undertaking even more colossal.
So what’s next for McDaniels? Get Marshall back on the field, and soon.
Fantasy Focus: 2009 Is the Year of the Ram
Published: September 1, 2009
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The return of Action Jackson
In 2004 the Rams ,in a surprising move, selected running back Steven Jackson out of Oregon State University. At the time the Rams heralded future hall-of-fame running back Marshall Faulk. Jackson was selected 24th overall and at the time was expected to be the back-up for Faulk.
It only took a year for the team to decide it was Jackson’s time. In 2005 Jackson was named the starter and a new era was born. Steven was solid in his first year as the starter, but it was 2006 when he unleashed his full potential on the league and elevated his status to one of the leagues elite. Jackson would run for over 1,500-yards, score 13 rushing touchdowns, catch 90 passes, add another 800-yards receiving, and have 16 plays of 20-yards or more.
During the 2006 campaign “Action” Jackson had become a household name in the fantasy world and would undoubtedly earn the top spot in most 2007 fantasy drafts.
Since his break-through season Jackson has done an about-face with injuries being the main culprit. In 2007 Jackson missed four starts and then again in 2008 he missed another five all due to injury. Despite the shortened seasons, the Rams featured runner still tallied 1,200-yards of offense with at least a half-dozen scores.
With the 2009 season on the horizon it’s a new start. The Rams have brought in a new regime (Steve Spagnuolo) that appears to be dedicated to the run and a major supporter of the Jackson bandwagon. With the Ram’s superstar runner having spent the offseason healing and getting ready for the new season, 2009 comes with a lot of promise.
Jackson has spent this past offseason with one goal in mind for 2009, to be in the best shape of his career. With his injuries looking to be things of the past, Steven appears focused and ready for action once again. With his great size and exceptional speed Jackson has the right equipment to be a huge success again.
We have seen what “Action” Jackson can do in the past and if the new administration is committed and utilizes his tremendous talents, he could once again rise to the top of the fantasy world. His 2006 resume should tell you all you need to know about his receiving skills; Jackson has 230 career receptions in five seasons. With an average of just 245 carries the past two seasons, Jackson should have a full tank and plenty fresh legs for the upcoming drive.
With his recent injury setbacks Jackson is likely to fall a few spots in most fantasy drafts. We believe he still possesses all the tools and talent in the world to be an elite RB1 in fantasy. He’ll be a huge risk and reward pick no doubt, but all the signs seem to be pointing toward his return to the top.
If you are drafting with the third pick or later in your draft, just remember one thing, 2009 could be the year of the Ram!
Denver Broncos: No State Of Defense
Published: August 31, 2009
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Still a work in progress….
For those of us that engage in the country’s unofficial second national past-time of fantasy football, it’s no secret that the Broncos defense is one to avoid in fantasy drafts.
While those in the Mile High area are hopeful that this reputation won’t precede this year’s edition, after watching their Sunday night debut, there’s still much work to be done.
While it was only the team’s third preseason game, this match-up had a little home flavor and enough incentive to bring out their “A” game.
Making his return to the Mile High area, the Bronco’s former starting quarterback Jay Cutler should have been more than enough to motivate Defensive coordinator Mike Nolan and the defense to bring it. Instead, it was Cutler that brought it Sunday night and got the better of this match-up, completing 15 of 21 for 144-yards and a touchdown.
With all the changes that head coach Josh McDaniels made on defense by adding veteran players like Brian Dawkins, Andre Goodman, Andra Davis, and Renaldo Hill, the defense has a long road ahead. Some may view the changes with great optimism, but Sunday night clearly exposed some of the same short comings of the team’s defensive play in the past; no quarterback pressure.
Against the Bears, the Bronco’s defenses on occasion came close to getting to Cutler, but were never able to put him on the ground. It’s been a familiar theme, and the 2009 version did not seem to show any noticeable improvements.
Again, it was only the team’s third preseason game so you might not expect to see to many complicated blitz packages, but if Denver fans were ever hoping to see a sign that times could be changing, playing against the Bears and Jay Cutler seemed to be the perfect excuse.
What to Expect in 2009….
There’s no question this unit is going to have to find a way to bring more heat up the middle and pressure on the edges if they are going to have any success.
Linebackers DJ Williams and Andra Davis look ready to thrive in Nolan’s new 3-4 scheme, and safety Brian Dawkins looks like he could have at least one more Pro Bowl season left in him. But, the lack of pressure is going to put a lot of demands on the secondary in pass coverage, an area the team struggled with in 2008 (ranked 26th).
The Broncos problems don’t lie in speed, but size in the middle could become an Achilles unless players like Kenny Peterson, Ronald Fields, and Ryan McBean really step up this season and make a difference. Optimism can only offer so much hope, something the Denver defense is going to need lots of this season.
Fantasy owners shouldn’t expect any significant jumps of improvement from the Bronco’s defense this season that would generate any drafting interest.
We have no doubt that with McDaniels enthusiasm and Nolan’s influence, this unit will get better, but middle of the pack is going to be a realistic landing spot for the team. The defense will be loaded with plenty of talent again this season, but it will take Nolan and his staff some time to develop its’ chemistry and effectiveness.
While this unit may not be worthy to draft in leagues that employ team defenses, it could very well be an attractive waiver wire option much later in the season.
Keep watch, take plenty of notes, and let’s see where things stand in the second half. That’s my take and I’m sticking to it.
Fantasy Focus: “Oh (Chris) Henry” is a Beast
Published: August 29, 2009
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The Man-child returns…
Just three seasons ago Henry burst onto the scene in Cincinnati as a big-time scoring threat in the red-zone. In his second season with the team Henry caught just 36 balls, but found pay-dirt nine times. In his first two years with the Bengals Henry totaled 15 touchdowns and appeared to be a star on the rise.
Henry is your prototypical NFL receiver with great size standing at 6’4″, good hands and big play ability. In his first two seasons with the team he averaged a score every 4.5 catches and over 15-yards per reception. And just when it appeared that the Bengals had themselves a jewel of a find in Henry, the trouble started.
Despite the early success, Henry’s second season (2006) would be marred with a five game suspension that would just be the beginning of more bad things to come. In 2007 due to off the field issues Henry began the 2007 season by serving an eight game suspension.
Following an arrest in April of 2008 Henry would be released by the team and seemingly be looking at the end of his short NFL career.
It was nothing short of misfortune and bad luck for the Bengals that would give Henry another shot at being an NFL receiver.
Even after head coach Marvin Lewis had expressed the team had no interest in re-signing Henry, with multiple injuries depleting their receiving corp and Henry having served his second suspension (four games) to start the 2008 season, the Bengals gave the oft troubled receiver another chance.
A chance that at first looked like nothing more than a temporary stop for Henry, who’s future seemed to be poisoned with bad choices and destined to fail. Henry finished last season with less than modest numbers and was likely off everyone’s radar heading toward the offseason.
A Second Chance:
It was during the offseason that change began. Henry was refocused and determined to change his outlook and more importantly his future. According to teammates Henry was working everyday with a great attitude and having an offseason like no other.
So the change began and the result this training camp has been, Henry always viewed as a talent in the game is suddenly beginning to realize his potential and making the most of his opportunity.
Henry has looked impressive in practice and made the most of his opportunities. He was getting more first team snaps during the team’s OTA’s in the offseason and carrying this over into training camp where he has just been a beast.
To this point, while Ochocinco has begun to show his old form, Henry clearly has been the standout in camp and his early numbers are showing his complete metamorphisis. In the team’s first two preseason games Henry has pulled down 11 passes for 155-yards and has been turning heads along the way with every snap.
With the return of number 85 and Palmer healthy, Henry is looking like this year’s early “big” sleeper candidate. He’s back with his old team and he’s had a whole offseason to work and improve and clearly it appears that’s just what he has done.
Last season there was no chemistry and for both the team and Chris it was not an ideal situation. 2009 looks to be quite the opposite with all signs pointing towards an improved Bengals team that consists of a marriage of misfits, a castaway, and plenty of talent to be successful.
Coming off a very quiet 2008, just 19 receptions and two touchdowns, Henry has likely begun the 2009 campaign as big fantasy secret. Only now is he starting to draw attention and create interest. Laveranues Coles may have been brought in to compensate for some of the lost production from TJ Houshmandzadeh’s departure, but don’t be fooled; it will be Henry picking up most of the slack.
His initial fantasy impact is already being noticed. Folks must remember, his first 15 touchdown catches in his first two seasons came off the arm of Carson Palmer. Henry looks like a new player in camp and both he and Palmer appear to be in sync.
Coles is projected to start opposite Ochocinco, but with Henry playing as well as he is fantasy owners might just have to consider him the team’s third starting receiver, until he takes the No. 2 spot. We may be reading too deep into the numbers this early, but with Henry looking as good as he does and a healthy Palmer, he’s going to be huge in 2009.
The man-child appears to be rocketing up the boards, but fantasy owners will likely still be able to snatch him up in the mid-rounds as their number three receiver. As long as all things keep pointing forward and Henry continues to work and do the things necessary, he’s a solid bet to finish the season as a solid number two fantasy receiver.
Keep him on your draft board, he’ll be worth picking up!
Brett Favre’s Return Means Big Things for the Minnesota Vikings
Published: August 22, 2009
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Did he ever really leave?
Well it has finally happened. Whether you were anxiously waiting to hear this story break and just praying this whole made-for-television daytime drama would finally go away, the day has come and yes, Brett Favre is back.
Sure there was a lot of grandstanding and drama, but what else would you be doing during the off-season, mowing the lawn?
So Brett was a little indecisive and had us all guessing while he toyed with the idea—something many of us suspected all along. It just made sense, and don’t think the two-year contract was an accident.
On Tuesday in Minnesota, Brett Favre inked a two-year deal with the team worth up to $25 million. No only did Favre sign, but he was able to join his new teammates for an afternoon practice. There seem to be plenty of signs indicating that Mr. Favre could play as early as this Friday in the Vikings next pre-season game.
Just days ago, football folks were breaking down the play of then-starting quarterback Sage Rosenfels and discussing his chances of starting. Now that Brett is in town and signed, what will all this mean to not only Rosenfels, but backup quarterback Tarvaris Jackson?
At the high price tag that the team has inked Favre, there is no question that he was not brought in to hold a clipboard and coach from the sideline.
The Vikings have done their homework and, with Favre’s injury behind him, he’ll bring veteran savvy and experience to an offense that features the league’s best runner and great potential otherwise.
Favre is the Viking’s new starting quarterback, and the hefty investment has to be an indicator that someone in Minnesota believes he can still play the game at a high level.
The Favre Affect:
So Favre is a Viking. Now what?
Now that we have crossed that bridge and come to terms with what has been brewing all along, its time to talk about what it all means.
With Favre under center, Rosenfels becomes virtually irrelevant other than a handcuff or insurance for the soon-to-be-40 golden boy. If you do draft Favre, he’d better not be your No. 1 quarterback. At his age and coming off an arm injury, he’s a high risk even at No. 2.
Brett’s immediate impact will not have great effect on his value, but he suddenly brings great credibility to a passing offense that wasn’t expected to provide too many fantasy options.
Without Favre, you are only looking at Berrian and Shiancoe as possible fantasy receivers. Harvin could be a consideration, but more in leagues that reward special teams yardage and touchdowns.
With Favre, it’s a whole new ball game. not only do you include Harvin, but you must include Sydney Rice and Bobby Wade.
Harvin is expected to make a splash this season as an all-around option that will include special teams. With Favre’s arm strength coupled with Harvin’s speed, he could be a sneaky sleeper as a touchdown-maker.
Wade, who led the team in receptions a year ago, should once again see a lot of action in the slot and could flourish with Favre calling the signals.
Rice has a great chance to have a big year. Just as in Green Bay, Rice and Berrian give Brett two explosive targets on the outside. Rice’s size coupled with the fact that Favre’s gun—in recent reports—has lost very little zip means Rice is going to be an easy target for the gunslinger to find.
Take note: Rice could be another fine sleeper for 2009.
Looking deeper into the Favre effect in Minnesota, with four quarterbacks currently in camp, one must go. There has been some talk and speculation that Favre’s arrival could mean the departure of Tarvaris Jackson.
It would make sense from the Vikings’ perspective. With Rosenfels under contract, the team has a very serviceable experienced backup and the flexibility to move Jackson, who still has market value.
The kid, John David Booty, fills the No. 3 spot as the potential arm of the future that can be brought along slowly. Remember, Favre signed for two years and Rosenfels signed a multi-year deal as well.
There’s no question that Favre’s arrival comes with no guarantees, but from an outsider’s view you have to think what it means if this is what it appears to be, the Vikings have definitely improved their chances this season.
This won’t be the 1998 Vikings offense, but with Peterson in the backfield and Favre under center, this could be the best team since then.
Last season, the Vikings passed for 3,217-yards and threw 22 touchdowns, very achievable numbers for Favre to match this season.
The big difference with Favre throwing for these kinds of modest fantasy numbers is his presence should keep defenses honest and make Peterson possibly better. Can you imagine?
Certainly a lot of questions will follow the 19-year veteran throughout training camp and well into the season, but if you’ve been reading or watching the recent happenings from the Vikings camp, players and coaches seem to like what they are seeing.
From a fantasy perspective, we are definitely liking what we are hearing.
Welcome back, Brett.
