Vikings Sign RB Adrian Peterson

Vikings Sign RB Adrian Peterson
The Minnesota Vikings have signed 1st-round pick, RB Adrian Peterson to a five-year contract with a maximum value of $40.5 million and including $17 million in guarantees. Peterson was considered by many as the best player in the draft besides WR Calvin Johnson. Peterson will split carries with Chester Taylor to start the season, but we all know that Peterson is the guy for the future of the Vikings. He has all the tools to be a great back in the NFL for years to come. Draft him in the first two picks of a dynasty league and draft him as a RB3 in redraft leagues for '07.

More Player News
New York Jets QB Chad Pennington is feeling good this summer, completely healthy a year after entering camp in a four-man competition because of the uncertainty surrounding his arm. Pennington is not a big time fantasy player but can be a decent backup and get you some points when your starter is on a bye.

Bengals WR Bennie Brazell has been very impressive in training camp, catching everything thrown to him. Brazell has shown clear cut speed, which could make him a downfield threat to take over for the suspended Chris Henry. Brazell is a guy to keep an eye on because the #3 WR in Cincy will hold some value because the Bengals put points on the board. Consider Brazell a sleeper right now.

Steelers RB Kevan Barlow's role has been so light these last couple days, that it makes you wonder if he will be one of the first players cut. Barlow is down the depth chart and should not be on your cheat sheet at this point.

Coming back from knee surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament, Giants WR Amani Toomer looked great the first day of training camp, when he easily passed the conditioning running test. Toomer should be good to go for week 1 and is considered a sleeper WR draft pick. At best he could be a WR3 this season on my squad.

Tennessee RB LenDale White said he weighs 240 pounds, a few pounds heavier than what he should carry this fall. He's hit the hole well and looks more confident. White has lost some weight for the first time in awhile. The Titans RB situation is still very sticky with Chris Henry and Chris Brown fighting for playing time along with White. This battle will probably continue into the season, so don't draft any of these guys with confidence.

Tight End Rankings

Top 5
1. Antonio Gates
2. Jeremy Shockey
3. Tony Gonzalez
4. Todd Heap
5. Kellen Winslow Jr.

Updated Player News

The Buccaneers have released DE Simeon Rice. Rice is coming off shoulder surgery and is getting older, so with Gaines Adams ready to step in at the DE position this is not a major surprise. Rice will more than likely join another team but his fantasy value is very low right now.

DE Gaines Adams signed a 6-year deal with the Buccaneers, making him the first rookie in the top 5 to sign. Adams should start immediately for the Bucs. He is a great dynasty pick and might be worth drafting in redraft leagues. This guy can get after the passer.

With rookie Marshawn Lynch still unsigned, Bills RB Anthony Thomas received most of the first team snaps in practice. Lynch will be signed very soon and should take over as the RB1, so don't read into this very deep.

Atlanta Falcons QB Michael Vick pleaded not guilty Thursday to federal dogfighting charges and was released without bond until a Nov. 26 trial. The Vick story continues all over the television but he is not on any fantasy cheat sheet right now.

The Buffalo Bills place QB J.P. Losman on the PUP list. Losman strained his back two days ago while lifting weights. This is just a precaution. Losman will be the starter on week 1. Losman actually improved a lot last season and is a nice sleeper selection especially if you get Lee Evans on your team.

Vikings head coach Brad Childress has said that he has seen a vast improvement on WR Troy Williamson's play since visiting a vision consultant in the offseason. I'm not buying this positive talk about Williamson. He has not lived up to expectations and I don't expect him to this year either.

Updated Player News
The Oakland Raiders have agreed to terms with RB Michael Bush. Bush is considered a value pick in most drafts. He may not start the season completely healthy but could be the starter by mid-season. The bad news is he plays for the Raiders and their offense is not good.

Bengals RB Chris Perry, who is still rehabbing an injured ankle, will miss up to 6 weeks of training camp. This is good news for Kenny Irons. Perry will be no help to you this season but Irons could get some snaps on 3rd and should be considered in dynasty leagues.

Chicago LB Lance Briggs will sign the one-year qualifying offer that will be worth $7.2 million. Now we can all sigh and draft Briggs with confidence in IDP leagues. Briggs is a top 20 IDP LB and should be all over the field for the Bears.

The Titans have agreed to terms with veteran free agent WR Eric Moulds. While the Titans need some experience at the WR position, Moulds is past his prime. I wouldn't draft any of the Titan WRs with confidence simply because Vince Young is not a big time passer just yet.

 Atlanta RB Warrick Dunn had surgery for a herniated disc last week and will miss up to 6 weeks of training camp. Dunn could be "done" as a fantasy player. He is certainly on the downhill side of his career and is a RB3 at best this season. The good news is Jerious Norwood should be in line to be the starter for the Falcons this season. Norwood may surprise us with a nice season if the Falcons can get some QB play from Vick...er, Harrington.

Top 10 Rookie IDPs

#1 LB Paul Posluszny, Buffalo--Coming into the league as a rookie, Posluszny finds himself in an ideal situation after an off-season exodus of marquee linebackers from Buffalo. Both of the departed stars - OLB Takeo Spikes (Philadelphia) and MLB London Fletcher-Baker (Washington) - amassed exceptional fantasy numbers in the Bills defensive system and the highly-touted Poslusny stands to inherit some excellent playmaking opportunities. Though he is currently listed as a second stringer behind undrafted 2006 free-agent pick-up John DiGiorgio on the team website, it's safe to view this as a mere formality. Posluszny should have every chance to prove his mettle in training camp and this hard-nosed, blue-collar tackle machine from Penn State will almost certainly open the season as the Bills' starting middle linebacker. Not the most athletic LB to come out of this year's draft, Posluszny is nevertheless the most NFL-ready of the 2007 class and he figures to record plenty of tackles for Buffalo this season.

#2 DB LaRon Landry, Washington--Slated to start opposite Sean Taylor in the Redskins secondary, LaRon Landry brings a fairly similar skill-set to that of his volatile colleague. Both are highly athletic, aggressive, ball-hawking safeties who roam well and cover a great deal of ground. And while Landry may not be quite the destructive hitter that Taylor is, he is considerably more polished in coverage and will put himself in position to make plenty of interceptions. At LSU, Landry was the sort of dominant presence that offensive coordinators quickly learned to avoid. Being paired with a player the caliber of Sean Taylor means that opposing coaches won't have that option when they face Landry in the NFL. He provides an immediate and substantial upgrade to the disappointing Adam Archuletta and should post decent fantasy numbers right away.

#3 LB Patrick Willis, San Francisco--Willis is currently set to battle veteran Derrick Smith for the 49ers weak inside linebacker spot, but it's a battle Willis should win - if not by the end of training camp, then by fairly early in the season. The 2006 Butkus Award and Lambert Trophy winner is simply too gifted to be kept off the field and he will get plenty of opportunities in nickel and special teams situations (even if he doesn't start right away). From a fantasy perspective, his numbers will be somewhat limited playing the weak-side ILB spot. Should he eventually earn the strong-side position, his value will take a tremendous leap. He's definitely a player to keep an eye on as he goes forward.

#4 DB Reggie Nelson, Jacksonville--This off-season, FS Deion Grant migrated to Seattle via free agency and SS Donovan Darius was released, leaving vacancies at both safety positions in Jacksonville. Reggie Nelson now walks in to assume a starting role as a rookie and should have fantasy relevance immediately; although, in the past, Jaguar safeties have been relatively quiet in terms of fantasy production. Nelson will be asked to do a great deal in Jack Del Rio's defensive scheme (largely, to compensate for the short-comings of incumbent strong safety Gerald Sensabaugh) and he should be up to the task. He is stellar against both the run and the pass and should quickly become one of the strengths of this secondary unit.

#5 LB Jon Beason, Carolina--Thought by some to be a little undersized, Beason will fit in nicely on a team that consists of many similarly underrated players with chips on their shoulders. With the Miami Hurricanes last year, Beason distinguished himself by being a reliable playmaker and a leader on the field. Scouts have compared him favorably to Jacksonville's Mike Peterson for his well-rounded play and excellent field sense and it's worth noting that Peterson also overcame doubts about his size to become one of the most respected linebackers in the league. In Carolina's May mini camp, Beason was playing with the first stringers at the weak-side linebacker spot, though he could still face training camp challenges from Na'il Diggs. Nevertheless, he figures to get plenty of playing time and, given Dan Morgan's recent injury history, it's not unlikely that Beason may find himself playing the middle linebacker spot - his natural position - at some point this season, which would certainly mean improved fantasy production.

#6 DL Jamaal Anderson, Atlanta--Unlike some other rookies on this list, Anderson's success this season may be largely dependent on a veteran player staying healthy. Provided he can overcome the injuries that plagued him last year, John Abraham will be drawing double-teams from the right defensive end spot, leaving Anderson to work in more favorable blocking conditions on the left side. Because of questions about his size and ability to match up with the bigger NFL O-linemen, Anderson is not likely to be an every down guy, but his elite pass-rushing ability means that he will see action on passing downs and could still put together good enough numbers in limited playing time to be worthy of fantasy consideration. The same player who recorded 13.5 sacks last year as a junior in Arkansas will be given plenty of opportunities on Atlanta's young and improving defense.

#7 DB Darrell Revis, New York Jets--Revis is a sure-tackler who should walk in right away and start at corner for the Jets. The players he draws the most comparison to - Ty Law and Charles Woodson - are physical, run-supporting corners who add safety-like tackle numbers to their INT totals. Last season the Jets had some struggles up front adjusting to Eric Mangini's 3-4 scheme -- which meant that added pressure was put on the secondary, resulting in plenty of tackles for the likes of Justin Miller and Andre Dyson. With similar expectations for the defense this year, Revis could put up some decent fantasy numbers, especially as a young guy whom other coaches are likely to target. More passes thrown his way only means more chances to make plays.

#8 LB Lawrence Timmons, Pittsburgh--At the time of the draft, Timmons seemed like a perfect fit for the Pittsburgh Steelers. They needed a replacement for Joey Porter and a guy like Timmons is versatile enough that he can be used in either the existing 3-4 alignment or the 4-3 set that new head coach Mike Tomlin has suggested he'd like to employ. Things have not gone smoothly thus far with Timmons' time in Pittsburgh as he has suffered a rash of injuries and has yet (as of July 16th) to sign a contract with the team. He's now at risk of losing out to James Harrison in his bid to start at outside linebacker backer this year. If he gets healthy and gets his contract signed, Timmons would be worth some late fantasy consideration. He's lightning quick and, if given the chance a chance to start, could put up respectable numbers. He's another guy that will get plenty of opportunities to prove himself on the field this year, even if he's not a first day starter.

#9 DB Brandon Merriweather, New England--One of the big surprises in this year's draft was New England's selection of Brandon Merriweather at #24 overall - not because of any questions about his playing ability, but because of perceived issues surrounding his "character." With so much focus on off-field issues in Roger Goodell's NFL regime, the risk to the Patriots of taking a guy like Merriweather - who was involved in the notorious head-stomping incident in the Miami-Florida International game last year - is significant. Nevertheless. From a strictly skill-based standpoint, the pick was ideal for both parties. Merriweather gets to join one of the league's best defenses under the tutelage of an all-time great at his position and the Patriots are able to groom an aggressive and highly skilled future replacement for team icon Rodney Harrison. If Harrison and Eugene Wilson are both healthy to start the season (a dubious possibility given their recent injury histories), Merriweather will likely see only limited play. However, an injury to either safety would open the door for a starting spot and the potential for top tier safety numbers.

#10 DL Anthony Spencer, Dallas--Spencer has every chance to develop into one of the league's elite pass-rushers, provided he can adapt to the move from end to outside linebacker. He has all the potential in the world, is a devastating physical presence and tackler with deceptive playing speed who could evolve into a game-changing NFL player. However, so much is dependent on how quickly he adapts playing in the Dallas defense. He's likely to find himself opening the season behind veteran Greg Ellis, but it wouldn't be a surprise to see him work his way into the starting lineup by mid-season or later. Certainly, he will get lots of spot-playing time as Wade Phillips will work to find ways to integrate this new weapon into his team's defensive scheme.

Other Rookies to keep an eye on:

DL Gaines Adams, Tampa Bay--Eventual replacement for Simeon Rice. A speed rusher who is perfectly suited to playing end in the Tampa 2.

DL Adam Carriker, St Louis--Has moved inside to nose tackle where, according to coaches, he has been a beast.

CB Michael Griffin, Tennessee--May take time adjusting to the move from safety to corner. A kick blocking specialist who makes special teams interesting.

DL Amobi Okoye, Houston--Should give Houston that much needed push up the middle. Will help boost the fantasy stats of other Texan players - most notably, Mario Williams.

DL Jarvis Moss, Denver--A situational guy and pass-rush specialist who may be used in much the same way Elvis Dummervill was used last year.

LB Quincy Black, Tampa Bay--A madman tackler and speed demon who could eventually find himself taking over for Derrick Brooks.

DB Sabby Piscitelli, Tampa Bay--Tough "gamer" safety who is suited to zone coverage.

LB Mike Okwo, Chicago--Could reap the early rewards from Lance Briggs' impending holdout.

DB Eric Weddle, San Diego--Chargers safeties were unimpressive last year. Any early struggles could usher in this fresh face.

DB Leon Hall, Cincinnati--A true playmaker who should develop into a great NFL cover corner.

 

Potential Holdouts

Training camps are opening around the league and that means players will start sweating it out in the summer heat getting ready for the regular season.

Some fantasy owners are doing a little sweating of their own because there are some prime-time players out there who are threatening to hold out for better contract deals. (Or, in the case of Marc Bulger, at least musing about the possibility of holding out.)

Some of the pre-camp grumblings might have you wondering what to do with a player on your team or when draft time rolls around. Here's a rundown on some of the holdout situations around the league.

Larry Johnson, Kansas City

Obviously, LJ is the biggest story in terms of holdouts. Johnson wants his rookie deal re-worked and is reportedly asking for somewhere in the neighborhood of $80 to $90 million over eight years. The Chiefs are saying that they are willing to listen to trade offers for one of the league's most dominating RBs, who is entering his fifth NFL season. It should be noted that Johnson has not said with certainty that he won't be in camp when the team convenes July 27, but he did say with a bit of mystery that reporters "won't be able to find me" when recently asked about attending. One team that has been mentioned as a possible suitor for Johnson is Green Bay, a move that would shore up the Packers' questionable running attack, caused by Ahman Green's departure.

If you have Johnson in a keeper league, then all you can do is hold on to him and hope for one of the two best outcomes: a quick resolution to the problem by having his contract redone by the Chiefs or a quick trade to another team, ensuring that he won't miss any playing time. (You can also entertain trade offers for Johnson from other owners in your league, but the offer better be a damn good one.) If your league is starting from scratch and you have, say, the second or third pick in your draft, then you have a few options. One, take Johnson and just hope that the situation doesn't turn completely sour, causing your first pick to miss considerable playing time. Second, bypass Johnson and take Steven Jackson or Shaun Alexander, leaving the potential headache and/or stress for another owner. Of course, if you have a lower draft pick and LJ is still available - for example, the fourth or fifth pick - it becomes more difficult to pass on him. In fact, common sense dictates that he should be taken no lower than sixth in any draft. No matter your dilemma, keeper league or draft position, stay tuned to FFToolbox.com and other sources for updates.

Marc Bulger, St. Louis

One of the league's and fantasy world's top QBs caused a bit of a stir when he stated on a Sirius Satellite Radio interview, "I don't want to rule anything out," when asked about holding out if he did not receive a new contract before the season started. Bulger's comment no doubt sent a bit of a chill down the spine of any owner who has the captain of "The Greatest Show on Turf" on a keeper team. From all indications, however, the possibility of Bulger holding out is slim and reports out of St. Louis are that he will have a new contract before the regular season starts (if not before training camp starts July 26).

Brady Quinn, Cleveland

Oh, to be young, handsome, athletically gifted, and comically spurned. Quinn, the darling of just about every pre-draft analyst - Will he go to the Browns at No. 3? (No.) Will he go to the Dolphins at No. 9? (Uh, that was another no.) - lasted until pick No. 22 when the Browns mercifully put an end to his on-screen embarrassment. Now, there are insinuations that Quinn and his agent will hold out for Top 10 money because, I guess, that's where Mel Kiper said Quinn should have been drafted. Actually, their thinking is that Cleveland gave up a second-round pick in 2007 and a first-round pick in 2008 for the chance to take Quinn with the 22nd pick in 2007 and given the great possibility that the Browns will once again have a top-10 pick in 2008... well, I think you can follow their logic.

Except for the fact that it's not really all that logical. He was taken in the bottom third of the first round in 2007 and he should receive a contract that corresponds to his placement. In all honesty, of what great concern is this to fantasy owners? Not much. If Brady Quinn goes in your draft, your league is undoubtedly keeper- or dynasty-oriented and a deep one at that. Besides, even without a holdout, Quinn is in for a battle to get on the field before 2008. Charlie Frye is not a great QB, but he was serviceable last year for the Browns before he got hurt and the team did take steps during the offseason to shore up that pathetic offensive line. And perhaps Jamal Lewis has one more solid season in him, taking the pressure off the QB position in Cleveland. Holdout or not, fantasy owners should not count on Quinn for anything more than taking up a roster spot in 2007.

As of July 23, only three first-round draft picks have inked deals with their teams, but no other rookie besides Quinn has made noise about not signing before the season starts. Obviously, fantasy owners want to see guys who might make an immediate impact, such as JaMarcus Russell, Calvin Johnson, Adrian Peterson, Marshawn Lynch, and Anthony Gonzalez, among a few others in camp as soon as possible so that there is no concern about a slow start once the season begins for real.

If you are in a league that drafts individual defensive players, the only players that are rumored to be in possible holdout patterns are New England cornerback Asante Samuel and Chicago linebacker Lance Briggs.

Samuel recently commented that he will wait until Week 10 of the NFL season - the deadline for being considered for free agency next season - before showing up to play for the Patriots. Hmmm, the last Patriot to play this game with the organization - Deion Branch - ended up in Seattle. While Samuel's importance to New England seems rather clear - he is their best CB - the Patriots don't seem to be in a big hurry to get him signed.

Briggs is in a bit of a different situation. No one will make the mistake of calling him the best Bears' LB since he plays next to a guy named Urlacher, so Chicago will have a more laissez-faire attitude toward meeting Briggs's demands.

From a team defense perspective, the Bears are considered a top-three defense with or without Briggs, while the Patriots might lose a spot or two without Samuel.

by Jack Clifford, Monday, July 23, 2007

 

 

Updated Player News

In the first of what could be many disciplinary actions Michael Vick could face this year, Commissioner Goodell has asked Atlanta QB Michael Vick to stay away from Atlanta's training camp to concentrate on his legal problems. I think you can take Vick off your cheat sheet.

The Pittsburgh Steelers and S Troy Polamalu have agreed on a 4-year deal through 2011. The deal is said to be $33 million dollars. Polamalu is a top 10 IDP defensive back. Draft him once the run of safeties takes place in your draft.

The San Diego Chargers have reached an agreement in principle with 1st round pick WR Craig Davis. Terms of the 5-year deal were not disclosed. Davis is a nice sleeper in redraft leagues and an even better option in keeper leagues.

Sources from the Giants and DE Michael Strahan's camp have said that Strahan will not hold out and will report to camp on Friday. Strahan is old but he still can play. He is a top 20 DL on most draft sheets.

Miami Dolphins 2nd round pick, QB John Beck, has signed a 4-year deal. The deal is a 3-year deal and an option that will pay him $2.25 million in guaranteed money. This guy is worth a shot in keeper leagues. Trent Green isn't getting any younger.

Updated Player News
Cowboys second year DE Marcus Spears lost around 20 pounds in preparation for the new 3-4 defensive scheme installed by HC Wade Phillips. Spears, now down to 290 lbs, is looking forward to his new/old defense. "This is what I was used to (at LSU), and this is getting back to what made me successful," Spears said. Spears may be optimistic about the season but he is no help to IDP owners.

Houston Texans tight end Owen Daniels is now 100% recovered from a shoulder injury which hindered his performance during the last half of the 2006 regular season. Daniels is considered a TE2 with sleeper possibility.

Likeliest to earn the most playing time at the Browns No. 3 receiver spot are '06 third-round pick Travis Wilson, kick returner Joshua Cribbs, and Tim Carter, who was acquired in a March trade that sent Reuben Droughns to the Giants. While all three players have proven ability, Carter has marked 72 receptions in five seasons in New York, while Cribbs and Wilson have a combined 13 career receptions. None of these guys will help your fantasy team...like most Browns.

Don't be surprised if Cowboys RB Julius Jones has another career year with his contract expiring after the season. His production always depends on the number of carries he gets, but Jones is out to prove he's an elite back and will be looking to cash in with a lucrative long-term deal. Barber will steal some carries but Jones could surprise fantasy owners that pass on him. Right now he should be considered a RB3.

Updated Player News

A federal grand jury has indicted Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick in an investigation into illegal dog fighting. Vick and three others are charged with violating federal laws against competitive dog fighting, procuring and training pit bulls for it and conducting the enterprise across state lines. It is unlikely that this will reach the courts anytime soon but Commissioner Goodell could use a firm hand on Vick. Vick owners should be scared.

Dallas Cowboys OLB DeMarcus Ware voided the final year of his contract by reaching certain playing-time and performance milestones. Ware is under contract through 2009, but the thought is that since he has one less season, that Dallas should be looking to sign him long-term right now. Ware is an up-and-coming LB for the Cowboys and many fantasy owners are excited about what he will do under Coach Phillips. Draft him as a LB2 and be excited he is on your team.

The Miami Dolphins released quarterback Daunte Culpepper on Tuesday, making the move in a one-sentence release, without further comment. It is not known whether there was an opportunity to trade him. Culpepper has no fantasy value right now, but he will likely join a team soon and will still have no fantasy value.

Minnesota Vikings head coach Brad Childress said today that RB Adrian Peterson "hasn't had any backsteps," but it will be necessary to perform one more evaluation before he is officially cleared for contact. "We'll just get one more baseline [test] of where he is," Childress said. If Peterson clears the last test, draft him with confidence. He is an excellent dynasty/keeper selection and a nice RB3 in redraft leagues.

Miami Dolphins receiver Chris Chambers had his drunken driving case delayed until next month. Chambers did not attend Monday's hearing in Mecklenburg County court, which came two days after his arrest for driving while impaired. He also was cited for reckless driving and speeding. The case was continued until Aug. 15, court spokesman Charles Keller said. This should not be a problem for Chambers but I would be leary of him on draft day.

Last year, Rod Marinelli moved Cory Redding from defensive end to defensive tackle in the belief he could be one of the best defensive tackles in football. On Monday, the Lions backed up that belief by making him the highest-paid defensive tackle in football. Redding, the team's franchise player in 2007, agreed to a seven-year, $49 million contract that included $16 million in guarantees, including $13 million in signing bonus and roster guarantees. Redding will receive a little more than $20 million over the first three years of his contract. DTs are not valuable in IDP leagues.

Free agent RB Corey Dillon, who is rumored to be headed toward retirement after playing for the Patriots likes the Dolphins, but they haven't called. Dillon is past his fantasy prime, so no big news here. Until he signs on the dotted line, he is should not be in your fantasy conversations.

Updated Player News

While starting QB Alex Smith became the first 49ers quarterback to take every offensive snap in a season last year, Trent Dilfer didn't play at all, and the team's veteran backup says he hopes to play more in upcoming exhibitions to help ensure his readiness this season. "I'm just going to express that I would like to play a little more in the preseason, just to make sure I'm sharp. In my opinion, it's in the best interest of the football team that I'm on my 'A' game come opening day and something were to happen to Alex", Dilfer said. Stay away from Dilfer come draft day.

For the next six months or so, quarterback Bucs QB Jeff Garcia and coach Jon Gruden will be inseparable. If you think another player has a chance to win a starting job under center in training camp, which begins July 26, think again. "I love Garcia," Gruden said recently. "I like what he's doing a lot. I just think he's got some traits we haven't had around here - his mobility, his experience." Garcia is not a top fantasy QB but he is worthy of being your backup.

QB Tony Romo is in the final year of a two-year, $3.9 million deal. The Cowboys made a strong commitment to him by bypassing Brady Quinn with a first-round draft pick in April. Jones said Romo has the marketability and skills necessary to lead the Cowboys, and signing him long-term will probably happen. Romo has had mixed reviews this preseason, but I would advise that he can win fantasy games for you as the QB1.

The clock is ticking on Patriots DB Asante Samuel. The cornerback is not yet technically a holdout, since he remains a free agent. A source close to Samuel yesterday said he wouldn???t be surprised if the corner held out into the season, but thought a more likely scenario would be for Samuel to end his holdout early in training camp so he has enough time to get into game shape and decrease the risk of injury that would come with just jumping into the action halfway through. If he does come back, draft him as your DB2 because he should get plenty of INTs.

Updated Player News
Rams players are to report for training camp two weeks from today. Will quarterback Marc Bulger be among them? In an interview Tuesday on Sirius NFL Radio, Bulger hinted that if he doesn't have a new contract in place before camp, he might consider a holdout. This isn't great news, but I wouldn't let it effect his draft status.

With Tiki Barber gone into retirement, Tom Coughlin has laid the mantle of leadership at the feet of Giants QB Eli Manning, who can either kick it aside or reach down and embrace it the way all Giants fans desperately want him to do. Manning says he's ready to accept the challenge. Manning is a good QB2, but don't ask him to lead you to the fantasy Super Bowl.

TMJ's Lance Allen reports that a league source told him that the Green Bay Packers are "keeping a close eye" on the contract situation of Kansas City Chiefs RB Larry Johnson. It is all a big rumor, I say he will be starting for the Chiefs in week 1.

Broncos WR Rod Smith is letting his surgically repaired hip tell him when he's ready to return to the field. Right now, it's saying it's not even close. The 37-year-old receiver, who had an operation on the hip in February, sat out the Broncos' two-day minicamp. He's yet to run post-surgery except briefly in a pool. Smith is done being a productive fantasy player.

Updated Player News

The Green Bay Packers are loaded with many options to carry the ball this season, with names like Vernand Morency, Brandon Miree and Brandon Jackson joining holdover Noah Herron at RB. That could make Green Bay the latest team to use a running-back-by-committee approach. HC Mike McCarthy, though, emphasized that he'd like to see someone emerge. "You'd always like to see someone jump up and grab a position, because I think when that happens, obviously productivity increases," he said. "But once again, you want as much competition...So I'm very comfortable if it takes three, if it takes two, if it takes one." Morency and Jackson are both sleeper candidates for the '07 season.

The Bucs have left the light on for QB Jake Plummer but for how long? Word is, Bucs coach Jon Gruden and his trusty tracker, GM Bruce Allen, have ditched their own vacation plans to expand the search for the missing quarterback. Allen and Plummer had been in contact, but, well, who knows with flighty Jake. Jeff Garcia is the starter in Tampa and that is our only worry.

Packers cornerback Charles Woodson, an ex-teammate of tight end David Martin, has a message for Dolphins fans: ''You're not losing anything going from Randy McMichael to David Martin. David would be a starter on a lot of teams. He's got great hands, good speed and he's a good blocker.'' Martin is not high in many rankings but you should keep an eye on him.

New England Patriots wide receiver Chad Jackson is likely to begin the 2007 regular season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, according to John Tomase at the Boston Herald. Jackson has yet to perform for the Patriots and with all the WRs in New England, he won't be doing it this year either.

Running Back Camp Battles

There is nothing a fantasy owner hates more than a running back battle in training camp. When the battles last up until the beginning of the season, no fantasy owner can really know what will happen before they have to start making their picks. Yet, it is not all bad for owners. The risk takers can end up with a steal in the draft if they want to take a chance on one player over the other. Of course, that plan backfires about half the time. In some cases it is possible to draft both players involved in the later rounds of the fantasy draft.

Atlanta Falcons: Warrick Dunn vs. Jerious Norwood
Warrick Dunn just will not go away. The veteran is heading into his 11th season in the NFL and his sixth with the Falcons. Every time you think his production will fall off, he pulls out another 1,000 yard campaign. Jerious Norwood is expected to take over some more of the carries after garnering 99 attempts in 2006 and the entire process of switching from Dunn to Norwood will take at least another year. That is bad news for owners of either Atlanta running back. The duo only combined for a grand total of six rushing touchdowns last season and neither looks like a good pick in most fantasy leagues.

Carolina Panthers: DeShaun Foster vs. DeAngelo Williams
This may be the year DeAngelo Williams catapults himself into superstardom. DeShaun Foster never really became a fantasy star and now he is on the decline with the emergence of Williams. Williams will likely fall past the first couple of rounds in most fantasy drafts and, if his progression goes as planned, he could be a steal. The 5-9 second year player out of Memphis only rushed for 501 yards and one touchdown as a rookie, but it is his receiving skills that intrigue fantasy owners. Williams caught 33 passes for 313 yards, one touchdown and his total yardage should drastically increase this year. Foster is still listed as the starter, but that may not last too long.

Dallas Cowboys: Julius Jones vs. Marion Barber III
Julius racked up 1,084 yards in 2006 and handled the bulk of the carries. But it was Marion Barber III who found the end zone 14 times. Jones, who may not even end up on the Cowboys by the time the season starts, has been a decent rusher in Dallas, but Barber is the future. The team hopes to employ more of a power running attack and that is nothing but trouble for Jones. With or without Jones, Barber will be the premier fantasy back in 2007, but it is not like Jones is over the hill and not able to put up big numbers anymore. But if he does not get the carries, especially in goal line situations, Jones will be nothing but a fantasy dud.

Detroit Lions: Tatum Bell vs. T.J. Duckett vs. Kevin Jones vs. Injuries
If Kevin Jones is healthy, he is a decent fantasy option, but that is a big 'if.' With Tatum Bell and T.J. Duckett joining the squad, he will not get all of the carries(even when Jones is healthy). Bell is used to splitting carries and can definitely handle his fair share of the load. Bell only rushed for two touchdowns with Denver last year and lost five fumbles, so besides the rushing yards, his fantasy value is minimal. Jones may not find the end zone very often either if bruising back Duckett has anything to say about it. Even if Jones is healthy, he will not be anything better than a #3 or #4 fantasy back. In deep leagues he may be worth a shot late in the draft.

Green Bay Packers: Vernand Morency vs. Brandon Jackson
Like many players before him, Vernand Morency could not have much liked the drafting strategy of the Packers. Green Bay picked up Brandon Jackson, a 5-11 210-pound rusher out of Nebraska in the second round. Morency, who is coming off the best year of his young career, rushed for 421 yards and two touchdowns last season. He will probably get the starting nod, but that does not mean Jackson will not get his fair share of carries. For fantasy footballers, this is as bad as it can get. The players will split carries and even if you wanted to take a risk with one or the other, it is unlikely (barring an injury) that either will put up good numbers.

Minnesota Vikings: Chester Taylor vs. Adrian Peterson
This is one of the most interesting battles of them all. Adrian Peterson, the seventh overall pick of the 2007 draft, is a superstar in waiting. If he had gone to a team that needed a running back, he would be a superstar and in a high position on just about every draft board in fantasy football land. Instead, Peterson will compete with Chester Taylor for the starting job. In all likelihood, the two will split carries. Taylor broke out last year with the Vikings, rushing for 1,216 yards and six touchdowns. This year, with a run orientated attack in Minnesota, the numbers may not slip too much. The concern with Peterson is his durability. The former Oklahoma Sooner still has concerns about his collarbone injury he suffered last year and Taylor is one Peterson injury away from becoming a fantasy stud. Keep an eye on this battle before drafting either of these backs in your fantasy league.

New York Giants: Reuben Droughns vs. Brandon Jacobs
Reuben Droughns has the past; Brandon Jacobs has the future. Droughns has averaged over 1,000 rushing yards over the last three years with the Broncos and Browns. Yet, it is Jacobs-- a fourth round selection in 2005-- who has all the fantasy value. Jacobs only has 134 carries for 522 yards in his career, but the power back will be used in the red zone and has scored 16 touchdowns in his two years with the Giants. Heading into camp, Jacobs is the projected starter. If Droughns can continue his production, it may be a much closer battle than many think. But, (in the end) Jacobs should be a quality #2 back for just about any fantasy team, but it is a risky pick at this point

Norwood to see more touches

Not a surprise after watching Warrick Dunn slow down in the second half last year, but there are indications that Jerious Norwood will get a bump up in number of touches this season. After watching the second-year back motor for touchdowns of 78 and 69 yards last season, that would seem to be a fine idea indeed.

On the strength of those long gallops, Norwood averaged 6.9 yards per carry on 99 attempts, compared to Dunn's 4.0 average. Other than the occasional Michael Vick scramble, the Falcons lacked big play capabilities in their offense last season. There is no indication that it will come from the lackluster receiving corps, so Norwood should be given more opportunities to touch the rock.

While not the biggest back in the league, Norwood dwarfs the lilliputian sized Dunn, who has always struggled around the goal line. Strong and compact, he should be efficient inside the five -- especially if Vick is on the field and forcing defenses to watch for dashes to the outside. Norwood, who had 12 receptions last season, should increase his production in the passing game as the Falcons will look to get him into single coverage against a slower linebacker.

Dunn will go earlier in drafts, but Norwood will be the better value later on.

Norwood to see more touches

Not a surprise after watching Warrick Dunn slow down in the second half last year, but there are indications that Jerious Norwood will get a bump up in number of touches this season. After watching the second-year back motor for touchdowns of 78 and 69 yards last season, that would seem to be a fine idea indeed.

On the strength of those long gallops, Norwood averaged 6.9 yards per carry on 99 attempts, compared to Dunn's 4.0 average. Other than the occasional Michael Vick scramble, the Falcons lacked big play capabilities in their offense last season. There is no indication that it will come from the lackluster receiving corps, so Norwood should be given more opportunities to touch the rock.

While not the biggest back in the league, Norwood dwarfs the lilliputian sized Dunn, who has always struggled around the goal line. Strong and compact, he should be efficient inside the five -- especially if Vick is on the field and forcing defenses to watch for dashes to the outside. Norwood, who had 12 receptions last season, should increase his production in the passing game as the Falcons will look to get him into single coverage against a slower linebacker.

Dunn will go earlier in drafts, but Norwood will be the better value later on.

Updated Player News

According to league sources, WR Troy Brown has reached agreement on a one-year deal that will bring him back to New England for a 15th season - second in club history only to Steve Grogan's 16 - and ensure that Mr. Patriot remains in Foxboro. Don't expect a fantasy impact from Brown but it is nice to see a player remain on a team for 15 seasons.

Free-agent strong safety Donovin Darius, released by the Jacksonville Jaguars last month, signed with the Oakland Raiders on Tuesday. Contract details were not immediately available. "He will bring us immediate competition in the secondary," head coach Lane Kiffin said. "Donovin exemplifies hard work and dedication to the game...He will be a great fit in our team's philosophy." Darius will help the Raiders D but won't help your IDP team.

Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall was eager to get back to a normal day's worth of on-field work at minicamp Monday after sitting out the June practice sessions. "I would say (I'm) 100 percent," he said. "I didn't feel (any pain) at all in my thigh, so I'd have to say I'm healthy and ready to go." Marshall did acknowledged he had some work to do. Marshall should be the WR2 in Denver and makes a nice sleeper pick in most drafts.

The drunken-driving charge against Baltimore quarterback Steve McNair was dropped Tuesday because a related DUI charge against his brother-in-law was reduced to reckless driving. McNair was a passenger when Nashville police stopped his pickup truck May 9 for speeding. The former Tennessee Titan was charged because police said McNair allowed his vehicle to be driven by someone who was inebriated, brother-in-law Jamie Cartwright. Draft McNair as a backup only if you have to have him on your team.

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Baltimore Ravens starting QB Steve McNair is scheduled to appear in a Nashville, TN, courthouse tomorrow to face his driving under the influence by consent charge. McNair will appear alongside his brother-in-law, Jamie Cartwright, who was arrested on a DUI charge. "I think there is a very good chance to get it worked out as far as the driver is concerned," said Roger May, McNair's lawyer. "If that occurs, then Mr. McNair's case will be dismissed." McNair is no longer a top fantasy QB. Draft him late if at all.

The Texans signed former Texas A&M wide receiver Bethel Johnson to a one-year, $650,000 deal Monday. Johnson, 5-foot-11 and 200 pounds, will add another kick returner to the Texans' roster as well as a speedy target for quarterback Matt Schaub. Johnson is a special teamer so don't bother drafting him this season.

Denver RB Cecil Sapp ran with the second team at Broncos Organized Team Activities. We are not sure if HC Mike Shanahan is trying to motivate RB Mike Bell or if Sapp is really that good but regardless we should all stay tuned to what happens in Denver.

The St. Louis Rams announced that they have signed seventh-round draft choice Keith Jackson, a defensive tackle from the University of Arkansas, to a three-year contract on Monday. Financial terms of the deal were not immediately available. Jackson is the third member of the Rams 2007 draft class to sign with the team. Jackson will not have nearly the career that his Daddy (Keith) did in the NFL.

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Seahawks WR Deion Branch is on the move, and his quarterback believes the receiver will have a big year. This year, Branch is moving to the "Z", an outside spot on the tight-end side. It's the spot veteran Darrell Jackson played for most of the last seven seasons, totaling 63 catches and 10 touchdowns in 2006. Branch is more of a WR3 right now but does have big upside.

Tyna Robertson claims Bears LB Brian Urlacher, the father of her 2-year-old son, has sent her more than 30 nasty text messages since January. In those messages, he allegedly called her a "hooker" and "jealous b----," among other things, and once made this suggestion: "make one of your pimps drive you around," according to court papers filed Friday in their child custody case. Robertson, a former exotic dancer who has been accused of shaking down men for money, has had court trouble with another famous man she once dated -- "Lord of the Dance" star Michael Flatley. Urlacher is still a top IDP talent despite these off the field issues.

Contrary to a previous report from ESPN, Atlanta Falcons QB Michael Vick is not out of the woods. After removing the remains of 7 pit bulls during their first search on June 7th, federal authorities removed the remains of another 10 carcasses buried in shallow graves at Vick's property on Friday. This story will not end but Vick should still be a top-10 QB in fantasy leagues.

Falcons RB Jerious Norwood "figures to get" just as many touches as Warrick Dunn this season, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With Dunn on the downhill side of his career, I suggest drafting Norwood ahead of Dunn this season.

Updated Player News
Former Philadelphia linebacker Dhani Jones, who started for the Eagles last season but then was waived after last spring's draft, said Thursday night that he intends to sign with the New Orleans Saints. The Saints have addressed the defense in the offseason and this move would not hurt either. Until Jones signs and earns a starting spot, he is not a useful IDP player.

Thirteen-year veteran strong safety Rodney Harrison, still regarded as the heart of the New England secondary but a defender whose productivity has diminished the past two seasons because of injuries, has restructured his contract. Harrison will most likely start the season as a starter but look for rookie S Brandon Meriweather to steal some snaps.

The Cowboys absolutely want Arkansas RB Darren McFadden in the 2008 draft based on what he did last season. Their two first-round choices will give them the ammunition to make a bid, if Cleveland doesn't give them a top-five pick with a poor performance. The '07 season of Julius Jones and Marion Barber will weigh heavily on this decision.

The fact that the Titans re-signed RB Chris Brown, who appeared a goner at season's end, should tell you all you need to know about their assessment of the running back situation. LenDale White found his way into the doghouse early by reporting to the offseason overweight, then injuring his hamstring. The debate on Chris Henry within the Titans' camp is how good will he be and how quickly can he get there. Brown would appear to have the inside track for now, simply because he has a track record of sorts, including a 1,000-yard season in 2004. Drafting any of these RBs is a risk and you should definitely handcuff them if you choose to draft a Titans RB.

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On Tuesday the Chicago Bears signed their 1st round pick TE Greg Olsen to a 5 year deal. With this signing, it makes Olsen the first player who was drafted in either the 1st or 2nd round this year to sign with their respected team. Olsen is a good keeper league TE and a marginal redraft league tight end. He will share time with Desmond Clark, so don't expect him to be a top fantasy TE just yet.

Some Dolphins players believe WR Ted Ginn will play more receiver as a rookie than coach Cam Cameron suggests publicly. Derek Hagan will begin camp as the No. 3 receiver (provided Marty Booker is still here), but Ginn could challenge. Ginn will primarily be a special teams returner and his value could increase dramatically if he is this No. 3 WR. Draft him in dynasty leagues only.

Agent Drew Rosenhaus, who has been in Chicago the past couple of days, also brought with him several ideas regarding LB Lance Briggs' contract that he hopes will interest the Bears. "We presented some concepts that we think will work for the Bears and for Lance," Rosenhaus said, declining to elaborate on specifics. Adding urgency to Briggs' situation is that July 16 is the deadline to do long-term contracts with players having the franchise designation. This has gone on long enough, can we play some football Lance?

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Oakland Raiders RB Dominic Rhodes was suspended Tuesday for the first four games of the season for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Rhodes didn't help his draft status by the suspension. He will split time with LaMont Jordan when he returns in week 5.

49ers WR Ashley Lelie has already received a $2 million signing bonus as part of his two-year contract with the 49ers. There have been a few people who have suggested Lelie is in danger of getting cut during training camp, based entirely on a quad injury that kept him off the practice field during the offseason work. Lelie has yet to put fantasy points on the board so don't bother drafting him.

Although 49ers receiver Darrell Jackson did not get on the practice field during the offseason workouts due to a lingering turf-toe injury (hyper-extended big toe), the 49ers do not seem overly concerned. The 49ers did research on him before acquiring him in a trade on draft day. Take a chance and draft Jackson as your WR2.

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Dallas Cowboys receiver Terrell Owens filed a $600,000 lawsuit, contending his name and photo were used in nightclub ads without his permission. Owens says the Avalon nightclub on Manhattan's West Side improperly used his name, likeness and initials T.O. in 2006 and 2007 to promote its Friday Night Lights events and other parties. He says the club claimed he would be hosting the parties. This story has no effect on T.O. a top-5 receiver again this season.

Blood tests show former Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tank Johnson's blood alcohol level was below the legal limit when he was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving June 22, police said Monday. Johnson's blood alcohol level was .072, under the presumptive limit in Arizona of .08 percent, Gilbert police Sgt. Andrew Duncan said. No charges have been filed pending results of a completed investigation, and Duncan declined further comment. Johnson is not a good fantasy play, especially when he doesn't have a team.

While many question if Minnesota QB Tarvaris Jackson can do the job as the starting quarterback for the Vikings, there is great confidence at Winter Park. "Well, time will tell on that," Vikings VP Rick Spielman said. "I know coach [Brad] Childress and the organization have the upmost confidence in the kid, and he's going to have some growing pains, but he has all the tools to hopefully be successful for us." Don't expect fantasy numbers from Jackson, he will have a rough season as will the Vikings offense.

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According to a pro scout who has watched Patriots WR Randy Moss extensively throughout his career, one of his greatest attributes also ranks among his least publicized - his ability to read defenses. It'skind of interesting, because I hear people say he doesn't know how to run routes and all this other stuff," said the scout, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "But he's one of the few guys I know of in this league who when defenses line up, he knows what coverage it is. Moss is doing all the right things to impress fantasy owners and Patriots' fans. He could be back to a top 10 WR soon.

There are likely some members of Buffalo's offensive staff still pinching themselves to make sure that they did in fact take QB Trent Edwards at the bottom of round three in last spring's draft. There was no scenario in which the Bills believed a talent like him would be an option at the end of day one. Edwards might not be a help to fantasy owners now, but he could be a good get to dynasty owners.

QB Chris Simms was asked if he would've signed a two-year, $5-million extension with the Bucs last December had he known all that would transpire during this turbulent offseason? I don't know. I would've defenitly re-evaluated the situation," Simms said, "That's an honest answer." Simms will most likely be a backup this season so don't draft him.

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DB Troy Polamalu original contract ends following the 2007 season. The Steelers don't have to do a thing. They can permit him to play out his deal and then slap a franchise tag on him for the next two seasons if he doesn't agree to their terms. Polamalu is one of the best safeties in the game and is a top IDP defensive back. Draft him early because he makes plays.

Dolphins' seventh-overall draft choice WR Ted Ginn Jr. recently indicated that he intends to sign a contract with the team prior to the opening of training camp and therefore will not hold out. Ginn will be more of a return specialist than a WR, so consider him more of a dynasty league player at this point.

Falcons' DT Grady Jackson's lawsuit against the team has been "resolved," according to his attorney Eric Farber of San Francisco. "Grady is very happy with it," said Farber on Tuesday. "Now he can focus on football." A Falcons spokesperson acknowledged that the case was resolved and added that the team did not want to comment. Like most DTs, Jackson is not considered a fantasy player.