 MJD ready for training camp? -- Tue Jun 18 1:00 pm --
Weight and foot still an issue |
There understandably has been some teeth-gnashing among fans and observers over whether Maurice Jones-Drew's foot, weight or both will remain an issue come the regular season. Jaguars General Manager David Caldwell said last week the plan is for Jones-Drew to be 100 percent when camp opens July 26. (Jaguars.com)
FF Today's Take: On top of the rehab is MJD's off-field incident which has yet to be resolved. Sticking to the field, it's worrisome to fantasy owners that MJD hasn't been able to do much conditioning after foot surgery. For what it's worth, MJD had microfracture surgery and came back to lead the league in rushing in 2011.
|
 |
Heath Miller may not be ready Week 1 -- Mon Jun 17 3:30 pm --
Recovering from knee surgery |
Under OC Todd Haley a year ago, Heath Miller caught a team-high 71 passes — only the second time since 1966 a tight end topped the Steelers in receptions. But with Miller out indefinitely following knee surgery — he was injured in December — the Steelers might go into the season without not only their top downfield threat from a season ago in Mike Wallace but also their most reliable receiver in Miller.
If Miller can't start the season — and that appears to be a strong possibility — the starting tight end is likely to be Matt Spaeth, who is renowned for his blocking. (Pittsburgh Tribune-Review)
FF Today's Take: While Spaeth finished 2012 as Pro Football Focus' top blocking tight end, he has never has caught more than 17 passes in six seasons, including four with the Steelers. It's one reason to knock Ben Roethlisberger down a peg on fantasy cheat sheets as well, although Spaeth's blocking only figures to help rookie Le'Veon Bell find a few more holes in the running game.
|
|
DEN eyeing three 75-catch receivers? -- Mon Jun 17 3:25 pm --
Thomas, Decker and Welker in line for big seasons |
The Broncos had superb pass-catching balance last year as slot receiver Brandon Stokley and tight ends Jacob Tamme and Joel Dreessen fell in behind outside receivers Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker. The mix this year removes Stokley and his 45 catches and replaces him with Wes Welker, who in six previous seasons with the New England Patriots averaged 112.
For the Broncos' offense to become the NFL's most lethal this season, the new balance needs Thomas to get 85 catches with Decker and Welker coming in at around 75 each. (Denver Post)
FF Today's Take: Bear in mind that Denver's passing game is much more focused on the outside receivers than New England's is. Still, Welker is going to see substantially more passes thrown in his direction than Stokley did last season (45 catches on 58 targets). He could easily steal most of Tamme's 52 receptions as well given they both play the slot. In short, while Welker won't catch another 112 balls this season, there's little reason to believe Thomas or Decker's final numbers will decline much.
|
|
Broyles expects to be ready for Wk 1 -- Mon Jun 17 2:50 pm --
Lions WR coming off second torn ACL |
When Ryan Broyles tore the ACL in his right knee last December, he knew exactly what kind of painstaking recovery he was in for because he’d already suffered the same injury in his left knee. Just six months and one week after surgery, Ryan Broyles returned for Lions minicamp this week and participated fully all three days. Although he’ll use the six-week break to continue rehab and strengthen small muscles in his right knee, Broyles expects to be ready for the 2013 season. (Detroit News)
FF Today's Take: Broyles only did some individual drills during OTAs, but six months and one week after the most recent surgery, he was a full participant in minicamp. In 2013, he's expected to work out of the slot and back up Nate Burleson, who is coming off his own ACL tear. If Broyles can prove his health in the preseason, he's worthy of a late-round pick in what promises to be a high-powered passing offense.
|
|
Quick, 4th on Rams depth chart -- Mon Jun 17 8:00 am --
Austin Pettis impressing in offseason workouts |
Although Brian Quick essentially was redshirted after struggling to master the playbook, he was expected to ascend to the starting lineup this offseason. That has yet to happen because Quick has an Austin Pettis problem. "Quite honestly, (Pettis) is probably having the best camp of all the skill players," Schottenheimer said via Stlouisrams.com. "He's a tireless worker, very competitive, can play all the spots which helps and he's having a tremendous spring." (NFL.com)
FF Today's Take: For now, Pettis and Chris Givens are working as the outside starters with Tavon Austin in the slot. Our money is on Quick to replace Pettis as a starter by the end of training camp. In any case, Austin is will likely lead this receiving group in fantasy points.
|
|
Holmes targeting training camp -- Mon Jun 17 7:00 am --
Jets receiver recovering from Lisfranc injury |
In his attempt to return to the field, Santonio Holmes is undergoing a rigorous rehabilitation program. "A Lisfranc injury is a separation of the joints in your foot. I actually had muscle tear and joint separation, so the injury process for me was a lot longer for some guys who say have a Grade 1 and the highest being a 4," he said. “I suffered a Grade 4 injury where I had suffered a separation and ligament damage in my foot.” (NewYorkJets.com)
FF Today's Take: Holmes has yet to run routes and is a candidate to starting training camp on the PUP list. For now the receiving corps of the Jets is a fantasy wasteland.
|
|
Gronk's back surgery set for Tuesday -- Fri Jun 14 9:00 pm --
Recovery timetable uncertain |
New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski is scheduled to undergo back surgery on Tuesday in Los Angeles, according to sources. One source said the time Gronkowski will be out will depend on what else, if anything, doctors find when performing the procedure and how Gronkowski responds to surgery. There is some level of concern within parts of the Patriots organization as to when Gronkowski might return. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: A 12-week recovery has been estimated which equates to Week 1 of the NFL season. It's very likely he will start on the PUP list in training camp. Gronk's fantasy value is unstable right now. We should know a bit more after Tuesday's surgery.
|
|
TE Winslow signs deal with Jets -- Fri Jun 14 5:30 pm --
One-year contract |
After a three-day tryout, tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. signed a one-year contract Friday with the New York Jets, the team announced. The move came as no surprise, as Jets coach Rex Ryan praised Winslow throughout the three-day minicamp, which concluded Thursday. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: The Jets were very thin at the tight end position with Jeff Cumberland penciled in as the starter. His last full season was in 2011 with the Bucs, catching 75 passes for 763 yards and 2 touchdowns. He's got opportunity on his side but will be a TE2 until he proves otherwise in training camp.
|
|
Victor Cruz to sign tender -- Fri Jun 14 11:35 am --
Will continue talks for long-term deal |
New York Giants receiver Victor Cruz told ESPN's Josina Anderson on Friday that he's on his way to the team's facility and he intends to sign his first-round restricted free agent tender worth $2.879 million.
"I'm going to sign my tender today and will continue talks for a long-term deal before camp starts," Cruz said Friday morning. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: Cruz has been absent from team workouts while the two sides have been negotiating. These situation tend to work themselves out and we've anticipated as such. His fantasy value as a low-end WR1, high-end WR2 isn't affected.
|
|
Giants OC: Randle will play a lot -- Thu Jun 13 6:50 pm --
Second-year WR benefiting from absences of Cruz, Nicks |
The biggest story of the Giants' offseason program was the absence of wide receivers Hakeem Nicks (from voluntary OTAs) and Victor Cruz (from OTAs and this week's minicamp). But the player OC Kevin Gilbride gushed about following the team's brief walkthrough Thursday morning was Rueben Randle.
"[Over the past month] he looked like a guy that's been here for five or six years. He really benefited from the opportunity," Gilbride said. "Oh, he's gonna play. He's gonna play a lot. He'll play first, second down, he'll be an outside receiver for us - whether he's at the X or the Z, he's gonna play. " (ESPN New York)
FF Today's Take: Gilbride could easily be heaping the praise on Randle to push Cruz to sign his deal, but the second-year wideout is a first-round talent that was dogged by questions about his work ethic - which doesn't seem to be the case now. A properly-motivated Randle could make the Giants' offense pretty dynamic. Given his skill set, Randle is a player that needs to be monitored during training camp as a potential top 40-50 fantasy WR.
|
|
Falcons see S-Jax as double threat -- Thu Jun 13 3:00 pm --
Veteran RB impressing new teammates |
The Falcons see Steven Jackson as a multi-dimensional runner-receiver who will amp up the screen game and their zone runs. Jackson comes to Atlanta with 2,395 carries, the most of any active back. He had at least 250 carries in seven of his last eight seasons. He is bigger than he's been at 245 pounds, although he does plan to get down to 237 for camp. The Falcons signed him in large part because he's a double threat. He can get the tough yards in the fourth quarter, something they need more of to burn clock, but he will also make them less predictable on early downs. (CBS Sports)
FF Today's Take: Despite his age and the punishment he has taken in his career, Jackson is incredibly healthy and a good bet to be productive for at lest two more years. Unlike his final days in St. Louis, Jackson will likely only pound away at defenses late in games and at that goal line while the Falcons utilize his pass-catching abilities to get ahead. Jackson is a good bet to catch 50-60 passes and push his career high in rushing touchdowns (13), making him a rock-solid fantasy RB1 in 2013.
|
|
Murray "back to where he needs to be" -- Thu Jun 13 2:45 pm --
Cowboy RB recovered from strained hamstring |
DeMarco Murray missed the first few OTAs in May because of a slightly strained hamstring, but as the Cowboys finish up their mandatory mini-camp Thursday the running back is ready to go.
“I definitely feel like I’m back to where I need to be,” Murray said.
Murray has led the Cowboys in rushing his first two seasons (897 yards as a rookie, 663 in 2012) but he has only had 325 carries. (ESPN Dallas)
FF Today's Take: With the Cowboys wanting to run more in 2013, Murray is the key and he has to stay healthy. He missed three games as a rookie with a fractured ankle while a foot injury kept him out of six games last year. Joseph Randle will also get his share of touches, but Dallas has not been shy about giving Murray a lot of work when he is healthy. If - and it is a pretty big if - Murray can stay on the field for 16 games, he could easily be a top 10 fantasy back.
|
|
Jags giving Henne "one" reps -- Thu Jun 13 2:30 pm --
QB feels he has realistic opportunity to win job |
Jaguars HC Gus Bradley is about competition, and as Chad Henne sees it, August will be about competition between him and Blaine Gabbert.
“I think it’s a little more competition than last year. They’re putting me in different spots, allowing me to get the ‘one’ reps and really allowing me to get involved with it. That’s what I’m excited about.” (Jaguars.com)
FF Today's Take: Much like Seattle (where Bradley served as the defensive coordinator), Jacksonville is preaching competition, with even undrafted free agent Matt Scott possibly in the mix. While the Henne-Gabbert-Scott winner ultimately is a low-upside fantasy option, it could have a significant impact on how productive Cecil Shorts, Justin Blackmon and even Marcedes Lewis are this season.
|
|
Broncos release Willis McGahee -- Thu Jun 13 11:45 am --
Montee Ball, Ronnie Hillman atop the RB depth chart |
The Denver Broncos released running back Willis McGahee, the team's starter the past two seasons, from their crowded backfield on Thursday. "I knew it was going to happen. It is what it is. They are going younger," McGahee told ESPN's Josina Anderson. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: This move has been speculated on ever since the Broncos drafted Montee Ball back in April. McGahee is coming off a torn MCL and a compression fracture in his right knee. He has been medically cleared for practice and has a list of teams that he'd like to play for including Miami, Dallas, Green Bay, San Diego, Oakland. We'll see.
|
|
Redskins add Henderson, Stallworth -- Wed Jun 12 8:00 pm --
Receiving corps gets a boost |
The Redskins have signed former New Orleans Saint Devery Henderson, making him the second wide receiver signed by the team on Wednesday. Earlier, they signed Donte Stallworth. (Washington Post)
FF Today's Take: The Redskins now have an abundance of wideouts, seven to be exact. Henderson and Stallworth will likely compete for one roster spot.
|
|
Bush OK after limping off field -- Wed Jun 12 2:00 pm --
After brief scare, Lions RB returns to practice |
Detroit Lions running back Reggie Bush gave everyone a little scare today when he hurt his ankle during a team drill at minicamp. Bush said he wasn’t scared that he was seriously injured initially. He said it was typical of the bumps and bruises football players suffer all the time during practice.
“No, I knew I just tweaked it a little bit,” he said. “I just planted wrong. Nothing I haven’t been through. I’m good, and I didn’t miss any time or any reps.” (Detroit Free Press)
FF Today's Take: This doesn't sound serious at all especially since Bush was able to return to drills. Bush is expected to be a big part of the Lions offense this season, not only on the ground but receiving out of the backfield. He's currently our 14th ranked RB in standard scoring leagues.
|
|
T.O. still wants to play -- Wed Jun 12 1:00 pm --
40-year-old receiver wants an opportunity |
Terrell Owens hasn't given up on returning to play in the NFL, saying Wednesday that he's more mature now and can still help a team if it is willing to forget his past and give him a chance. He said he believes "politics" has much to do with the lack of interest in signing him. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: ... or it could be that Owens is pushing 40 and has diminished skills. Owens mentioned teams running the west coast offense would be a good fit including Minnesota and Kansas City. Owens was in the Seahawks training camp last season but was released in August.
|
|
TE Zach Miller sits with sore foot -- Wed Jun 12 7:00 am --
Seahawks tight end seen in a walking boot Tuesday |
Tight end Zach Miller did not practice Tuesday, wearing a boot on his left foot — the same one in which he tore the plantar fascia in the NFC divisional playoff loss at Atlanta. “He has a sore foot, so we’re just resting it,” Carroll said. “I think we know exactly what’s going on, but it’s not going to be a serious problem. He just needs a little rest.” (Seattle News Tribune)
FF Today's Take: This will be something to monitor as "rest" included Miller wearing a boot. Will Miller on the sidelines, Sean McGrath and rookie Luke Willson were used in two-tight-end sets.
|
|
McGahee returns to minicamp -- Tue Jun 11 4:30 pm --
Mandatory minicamp brings out the veteran RB |
Broncos running back Willis McGahee was back on the field with the team Tuesday, but he spent more time watching the offense than playing in it. McGahee got only a few plays in team drills — he called it "a couple" — and largely spent the day as a spectator.
(Denver Post)
FF Today's Take: "I'm always on the bubble," McGahee said. "Not too much you can do. It's a business. If something happens it happens."
McGahee has two years remaining on a four-year, $9.5 million deal he signed in 2011. Ronnie Hillman got the bulk of carries at minicamp. Montee Ball is expected to lead the Broncos in carries this season.
|
|
Romo throwing passes, no setbacks -- Tue Jun 11 4:00 pm --
Dallas QB recovering from minor back surgery |
Tony Romo threw passes during the walk-through sessions prior to the start of the just-completed organized team activities and on Tuesday, before the start of the mandatory veteran minicamp. Romo had a cyst removed in April. He said the cyst wasn't cancerous, and he didn't know its size; team officials described it as minor. The recovery time was supposed to be three weeks, but it's taking longer. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: In this case, no news is good news. Romo is expected to be a full participant once training camp begins.
|
|
Hixon, Stewart our for minicamp -- Tue Jun 11 3:00 pm --
Panthers' RB & WR dealing with injuries |
Recently acquired wideout Domenik Hixon will miss all of this week's three-day minicamp after injuring his hamstring last week during OTAs, Panthers coach Ron Rivera said Tuesday. Meanwhile, running back Jonathan Stewart continues to recover from offseason surgeries on both ankles. (Charlotte Observer)
FF Today's Take: Hixon has been a serviceable wide receiver when healthy but has battled ACL injuries in 2010 and 2011 and missed time last season with an ankle injury. Stewart is said to be on track with his rehab but it's likely he won't participate in any drills until training camp.
|
|
Colts, Bradshaw agree on one-year deal -- Tue Jun 11 1:00 pm --
Bick Ballard's fantasy value takes a hit |
Colts and RB Ahmad Bradshaw agreed to one-year deal. (Adam Schefter via Twitter)
FF Today's Take: Bradshaw will reportedly get a $250K signing bonus and $1.1 million in base salary. This clouds the fantasy value of Vick Ballard and likely means that either Donald Brown or Delone Carter will be released before the end of training camp.
|
|
Nicks sighting at minicamp -- Tue Jun 11 9:00 am --
Giants get one of two starting receivers back on the field |
Wide receiver Hakeem Nicks is back with the New York Giants for the first day of mandatory minicamp. The team's top wideout had not participated in the team's voluntary OTAs the past several weeks to the surprise of his coach Tom Coughlin. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: Nicks could've been fined if he didn't report mandatory minicamp today. It's likely he skipped the voluntary workouts to ensure he wouldn't injure himself. Nicks injured his foot last pre-season and was never fully recovered.
|
|
Bills cut QB Tarvaris Jackson -- Mon Jun 10 7:00 pm --
Kolb and Manuel remaining QBs on roster |
The Buffalo Bills have released quarterback Tarvaris Jackson in a move that nudges rookie first-round draft pick EJ Manuel one step closer to winning the starting job. That leaves Manuel competing with Kevin Kolb, a sixth-year player the Bills signed in free agency in April. (AP)
FF Today's Take: Jackson was never a threat for playing time and has yet to prove that he can be a reliable player at his position. He spent last season as Buffalo's third-string QB.
|
|
Patriots sign Tim Tebow -- Mon Jun 10 5:45 pm --
Conflicting reports about position |
The Patriots have signed Tim Tebow, a league source confirmed to the Globe's Shalise Manza Young. The quarterback is expected to join the team at its minicamp Tuesday.
Tebow was released by the New York Jets in April after they drafted quarterback Geno Smith. Tebow played one season in New York after two in Denver. Tebow was drafted by the Broncos in 2010 after winning two national championships at Florida. Patriots OC Josh McDaniels was the Broncos head coach at the time. (Boston Herald)
FF Today's Take: Although it was thought his career as a NFL quarterback was over, the team has already released third-string QB Mike Kafka. With that said, it is entirely possible that McDaniels and HC Bill Belichick has a specialty role in mind for him, perhaps as an emergency quarterback who can get some snaps in as a running back and/or tight end. Or perhaps he is just being brought in for minicamp. Either way, the Patriots have bought themselves some media attention this summer.
|
|
Justin Hunter not practicing -- Mon Jun 10 3:50 pm --
Second-round WR sidelined with hamstring injury |
For the most part, Titans coaches are being patient and cautious with rookie WR Justin Hunter.
The second-round pick from Tennessee missed organized team activities again Thursday because of a hamstring injury. He hasn’t practiced since late last month.
Coach Mike Munchak said he doesn’t want Hunter to suffer a setback by returning to practice too soon — the Titans have four more days of OTA next week — and offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains expressed only limited concern.
(Nashville Tennessean)
FF Today's Take: Jim Wyatt reported Monday's absence on Twitter. Fiery WRs coach Shawn Jefferson - from the Bill Parcells school - has suggested that Hunter "needs to get his 'butt' going" as he is stressing OTAs as a time for a young receiver like Hunter to grow. For what it is worth, Hunter reportedly looked good during rookie orientation early last month. However, missing OTAs will almost certainly put him behind Nate Washington on the depth chart when training camp opens next month.
|
|
MJD has yet to practice -- Mon Jun 10 3:30 pm --
Team and player unsure of every-down role |
Maurice Jones-Drew hasn’t practiced this offseason because of his late December foot surgery. That’s not a surprise, given the rehabilitation schedule and the team’s expectations. But another key question for Jones-Drew is his confidence level for being ready to play an every-down role. The Jaguars no doubt discussed other plans. One of those should include adding another experienced running back. After Justin Forsett, there is minimal tailback experience. Denard Robinson and De’Leon Eskridge are rookies while Jonathan Grimes and Jordan Todman have a combined five NFL carries. The Jaguars worked out Beanie Wells last week, but he has medical concerns. (Florida Times-Union)
FF Today's Take: Both the Jags and MJD cost themselves 2-3 months of recovery time by delaying his surgery, but he has also stated that he no longer feels pain in the surgically-repaired foot. Robinson is easily the most talented of the reserve backs, although the former college quarterback was expected to be more of a gadget-type player in 2013 as he made the switch to a different position. Forsett and Grimes probably have the best shot at fantasy value in should MJD be slowed by his foot at any point.
|
|
Adam Jones arrested for assault -- Mon Jun 10 3:10 pm --
CB had bottle of beer thrown at him for refusing picture |
Adam Jones was charged with one count of assault for punching a female patron outside of a Downtown bar. Jones tweeted Monday afternoon that he has been arrested. "Just got arrested for protecting myself..." Jones said. Jones’ agent, Peter Schaffer, said that two women approached Jones and wanted to have their picture taken with Jones, who refused because he is married. After refusing, Schaffer said Jones had a bottle of beer thrown at him by one of the patrons and that he turned around and slapped the person. Schaffer said Jones had no idea who threw the bottle. (Cincinnati Enquirer)
FF Today's Take: This is the third time that Jones has been involved in an off-field incident in Cincinnati, although the first one was a "communications breakdown" between officers and the second consisted of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest charges - the first of which he served probation for and the second of which was dropped after he apologized. It's unlikely this incident will lead to his release, but a suspension could be looming.
|
|
Decision on Bradshaw expected today -- Mon Jun 10 11:20 am --
Colts in negotations with free agent running back |
The Indianapolis Colts are continuing their pursuit of running back Ahmad Bradshaw. Although no details of the negotiations are known, a person with knowledge of the situation indicated a resolution — one way or the other — could occur later today. Bradshaw, 27, visited the Colts last Thursday and contract discussions began shortly thereafter. (Indianapolis Star)
FF Today's Take: With no other options, it's likely Bradshaw will sign with Colts or perhaps wait for a team to suffer a running back injury during camp. Bradshaw has chronic foot problems and recently had foot surgery in February.
|
|
Cook happy to be in St. Louis -- Mon Jun 10 7:00 am --
Titans offense "didn't suit me" |
In 2012, the Titans ranked 22nd in passing yards per game (207.7), 23rd in completion percentage (58.9) and 27th in passing touchdowns (17).
"That offense really didn’t suit me," Cook said . "It didn’t fit me. I think I’m on an elevator going up." (St. Louis Post-Dispatch)
FF Today's Take: Head coach Jeff Fishers went on to say: "What we’re getting from Jared out there is what we expected," the coach said. "The ball’s going around, we’re matching him up, we’re creating mismatches, he’s making plays." Jared Cook is currently our 10th-ranked TE ( projected: 60 rec. 716 yards, 5 TDs) and should improve upon his 2012 totals (44 rec, 523 yards, 4 TDs).
|
|
Josh Gordon suspended two games -- Fri Jun 7 3:35 pm --
Fined an additional two game checks |
Browns receiver Josh Gordon has been suspended for the first two games of the 2013 season and fined an additional two game checks for violating the NFL substance abuse policy. (ESPN Cleveland)
FF Today's Take: Gordon tested positive for marijuana in college so he has been considered somewhat of an off-field risk. The risk becomes reality today. He will participate in pre-season practice and games but his fantasy value will take a hit. He will still hold value as a fantasy sleeper but it can't be realized until Week 3.
|
|
Jags workout Beanie Wells -- Fri Jun 7 7:00 am --
Deal not imminent |
Although a signing was not imminent, the Jaguars continued to explore potential roster additions Thursday by working out free agent running back Beanie Wells.
(Florida Times Union)
FF Today's Take: The Cardinals let Wells go with one year remaining on his rookie deal, in large part because he couldn't stay healthy. Wells missed eight games last year with knee and toe injuries. The Jags are in need of running back help as they lack any veteran presence behind Maurice Jones-Drew.
|
|
Sproles key to reviving Saints offense -- Thu Jun 6 3:10 pm --
Payton still sees RB as valuable all-purpose player |
Darren Sproles fell back down to earth last year after an other-worldly 2011 performance in part because of increased attention from opposing defenses, in part because the Saints struggled to give enough touches to all of their talented tailbacks and in part because of a hand injury that sidelined him for three games. Getting Sproles more involved this year will certainly rank as one of HC Sean Payton's top priorities as he tries to revive his dominant offense this season.
"With Darren, he's got a unique skill set," Payton said. "He's real sudden. I still see him as a valuable runner as well as a receiver." (New Orleans Times-Picayune)
FF Today's Take: Sproles only ran the ball 48 times last year for 244 yards in 13 games after managing 87 carries for 603 yards in 2011. Sproles also said he saw a heavy dose of "bracket" coverage from defenses - almost unheard of against a running back. These factors - combined with the fact that New Orleans' defense was historically bad - made the Saints' offense too one dimensional. With Payton back and even a slight defensive improvement, expect another banner PPR season from Sproles.
|
|
Ahmad Bradshaw to visit Colts -- Thu Jun 6 2:50 pm --
Ex-Giant free-agent RB starting to generate interest |
Ahmad Bradshaw will be visiting the Colts in Indianapolis on Thursday. The Colts have talked up Vick Ballard as their lead back with Donald Brown in a change of pace role, but Bradshaw has shown the ability in the past to be both a grinder and a threat out of the backfield. He’s also knows how to protect the passer after years of playing with Eli Manning, something that would come in handy in Indianapolis as well. (Pro Football Talk)
FF Today's Take: Obviously, visits don't always lead to offers, but this marriage makes a lot of sense for both sides. Bradshaw is a clear upgrade on Donald Brown and more explosive than Vick Ballard, although Bradshaw would likely see most of his work on passing downs. In this scenario, the Colts could keep Ballard fresh while reducing the likelihood that Bradshaw re-injures his troublesome foot.
|
|
Shorts has been camp standout -- Thu Jun 6 2:35 pm --
New HC putting focus on finding playmakers |
The Jaguars quarterback situation is a major question mark, but Bradley liked the way they looked in practice Wednesday.
“Both of them [Blaine Gabbert and Chad Henne] did a nice job today. What we’ve got to do is give the guys a chance to make plays...we’ve got to find out who the playmakers are,” he said.
When he was asked if he’s found any, he said, “I like Cecil Shorts.”
Shorts was an obvious pick because he has been a standout in camp. (Florida Times Union)
FF Today's Take: Shorts took a little while last season to crack the starting lineup, but emerged as the team's best receiver by season's end despite the Jags' mediocre options under center. Shorts made his mark with the deep ball initially, but showed to be fine route-runner with extended playing time. With a starting spot assured, Shorts - who will work out with Larry Fitzgerald this summer - could post a top 10-15 finish at the receiver position in fantasy.
|
|
TE Cameron sits with hamstring injury -- Thu Jun 6 7:00 am --
Browns TE dealing with groin and hamstring injuries |
Tight end Jordan Cameron, who missed time in organized team activities last week with a groin issue, suffered what appeared to be a left hamstring pull in practice Wednesday and had it wrapped by the trainer. (Plain Dealer)
FF Today's Take: Cameron sat out the last part of practice yesterday and is expected to be re-evaluated today. These nagging injuries are becoming a concern for the fantasy breakout candidate.
|
|
Jets receiver Stephen Hill limited -- Wed Jun 5 3:00 pm --
Swelling and fluid in his surgically repaired right knee |
New York Jets wide receiver Stephen Hill has swelling and fluid in his surgically repaired right knee and his activity is being limited in hopes of participating in minicamp next week. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: Hill suffered an LCL sprain late last season and while he's expected to participate in minicamp next week, the excessive swelling is a concern. He's currently penciled in as the starter opposite Santonio Holmes but the punch-less Jets' offense limits his fantasy value.
|
|
Big Ben has "minor" knee surgery -- Wed Jun 5 1:30 pm --
Expected to be ready for training camp |
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger underwent what coach Mike Tomlin called "minor" surgery on Wednesday to deal with lingering discomfort in his right knee. The 31-year-old Roethlisberger, who will miss next week's minicamp, is expected to return when Pittsburgh opens training camp in July. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: The operation was reportedly on his right meniscus. The Steelers QB had a similar operation on his left knee back in 2005 and typically has a 4-6 week recovery time. He should be fine for camp and certainly ready for Week 1.
|
|
Tannehill: RB Lamar Miller is starter -- Tue Jun 4 10:30 am --
Miller ahead of Thomas and Gillislee |
Asked who the Dolphins' starting running back is, Tannehill replied without hesitation: "Lamar Miller right now. He's doing a great job this offseason, really has a great handle on the offense and he's doing a great job protecting. (NFL.com)
FF Today's Take: This has been the assumption all along but it's nice for the Dolphins QB to confirm. Miller is ahead of Daniel Thomas and rookie Mike Gillislee on the depth chart and is hovering in RB2 territory.
|
|
Trent Richardson out until August -- Tue Jun 4 10:00 am --
Team concerned leg injury could turn into stress fracture |
Browns running back Trent Richardson was expected to miss mini-camp with a lower leg strain. What no one expected was for Richardson to miss part of training camp.
A source very close to Richardson told ESPN Cleveland on Saturday that the team had informed the running back he will be held out of action until August. This would mean Richardson will miss at least a portion of training camp. (ESPN Cleveland)
FF Today's Take: Richardson has piled up a long list of injuries during his short time in the league including knee, rib and now leg issues that should give fantasy owners cause for concern. The Browns are admittedly being over-cautious with their workhorse back so there is no immediate reason to downgrade Richardson from RB1 status.
|
|
