For those winning, times are great. For those losing, there is always next year. For many owners, this is the time you should look for late-season bargains. Teams that have clinched the playoffs may want to trade for someone who has a bye in the next few weeks. Maybe this player can shine for you in the playoffs. Teams scratching to get into the playoffs should do there best to trade away players who haven't had a week off yet. Worry about the playoffs if you get there. Keeper leagues are even more interesting. Now is the time you should be looking for next year's studs and getting rid of potential duds.

However, for commissioners, this time of year is the most sensitive. As a seasoned commissioner, I have instituted a trade deadline in my league that has just passed. With that, a huge sigh of relief. It is the most valuable rule written and is something I suggest all leagues should have. If you take into account that the NFL enforced its deadline on October 16, using a deadline anytime after that should suffice. In my competitive 14-league team league, I faced the possibility of many lopsided deals, since many teams are out and many are in or vying for a spot. But this year I was lucky.

I am a big advocate of trading, however, at this time of year, make sure your fellow owners don't get away with highway robbery. If a deadline rule isn't in effect, hopefully a trade committee is. While this is a game for fun, it is also for money, so be on your toes.

The following is are some players that you may look at now, to get you some nice production next year:

Quarterbacks
Tim Couch - Browns
Back from last years season ending injury, he has started to mature as the team is winning a little. As he continues to cut down on the mistakes look for him to improve in all areas.

Tom Brady - Patriots
Has a winning record since replacing the injured Bledsoe and if he could hold on to a starting job next year, he should be successful.

Running Backs
Troy Hambrick - Cowboys
Emmitt is showing his age, but Troy has shown to be an adequate replacement. Although the team is awful, if he can start finding the end zone he is worth a look next year.

Travis Henry - Bills
This rookie is quietly having a solid season but was overshadowed by LaDainian Tomlinson's early season performances. He should improve with experience but needs to stay out of trouble.

Wide Receivers
Marty Booker - Bears
Should be on everyone's radar screen now. Has excelled as the number one option since Robinson's injury. Monitor the situation carefully in Chi-town, but this guy is strong and has good hands.

Chris Chambers - Dolphins
This speedster is proving to be a quality pick out of Wisconsin. He has 10 catches of 20 yards or more and two catches over 40 yards, while averaging over 20 yards a catch. He can break one at any time.

Hines Ward - Steelers
Has been the only consistent receiver on the team. He is on pace to break the 1,000 yard mark for the first time in his career. If Stewart can continue his decent passing, Ward can be a nice receiver.

Tight End
Desmond Clark - Broncos
In his first 10 games, he has eclipsed last years season's numbers. Was a receiver at Wake Forest and is showing his skills in Denver as a main offensive option. Even with McCaffrey back next year, Clark is a top tight end.