Archive for July, 2009

Will Failed Brett Favre Courtship Haunt Vikings 2009 Season?

First and foremost, regardless of any “No chance” quotes coming from Brad Childress, let’s all agree that this whole “Favre thing” isn’t quite dead yet.

There have been tiny birds chirping from tall trees about a possible Favre signing mid-way through August, rather than mid-season.

But biting on hearsay, a coach’s words that you can never trust, or even the word of the great one (Favre) is nothing short of letting yourself get knee deep in a wild goose chase.

No, instead, let’s drop the drama off at the pool, let it sit a while, and get back to what we know.

What is absolutely for certain in Minnesota, is that Childress and co. have one hell of a running back, a solid offensive line, an active special teams unit, and an aggressive defense.

But, again, we knew that.

That’s why they were dipping their fingers in the Brett Favre dip all off-season. Not necessarily because it tasted so good that they had to keep on dipping, but because the alternative, was, well, not so tasty.

But here the Vikings are, ready to go in training camp today, with Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels duking it out. Oh, and let’s not forget that not-so-coveted former USC quarterback, John David Booty.

He might just get to keep that number four jersey, after all.

But since we’re back to square one, are we honestly going to allow ourselves to believe that this is going to be a fair fight?

Let’s face it, people, Rosenfels was brought in for a reason.

No, he’s not overly athletic (or athletic at all), and probably isn’t the long-term answer (make that a definitely), but he’s a proven pocket passer with a good arm and has shown he can put up solid numbers.

Jackson, on the other hand, finally showed spurts of decent play late last season, but then made everyone forget about his blissful play against the Detroit Lions, as he stunk it up in a playoff loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.

There are two doors Brad Childress can choose to open, and quite sadly, neither will lead to that possible Super Bowl run that Brett Favre was tempting the entire state of Minnesota with.

With Rosenfels, you have a guy who will make some plays and can manage games, but can also go all “helicopter” on you, and blow games at the last second.

Jackson, on the other hand, offers to versatility, athleticism, and potential.

But 2009 isn’t about potential. Or helicopters.

It’s about getting someone behind center who is competent enough to manage games, and good enough to win a few when called upon.

Call me crazy, but Childress had his guy last year, and he went by the name of Gus Frerotte.

But like Jackson before him, Childress gave up on Frerotte, went back to Jackson, and well, the rest is history.

So what does the crystal ball have in store for the Jackson vs. Rosenfels match-up?

It could very well be a tight race, and either winner could easily emerge as a serviceable quarterback that simply does what he needs to to help the Vikings win games, i.e., a Trent Dilfer.

That, or Childress could suck up his pride and turn to door number three.

Yes, friends, there is always a door number three.

He could take back his “no chance” remarks, give ol’ Brett another call in eight weeks (or less), and ride that 40-year old arm as far as it gets him.

After all, at this point, what does he really have to lose?

Brett Favre Still Working Out, Despite Reportedly “Staying Retired”

Despite reports from the Minneapolis Star Tribune and ESPN that Brett Favre is staying retired, NFL Network’s Scott Hanson is reporting that Favre will continue throwing and working out, just in case he gets “the itch” to play again.

Well, that might be the first logical thing we’ve seen out of this whole fiasco.

Okay, so it’s obvious that Favre isn’t simply conflicted. The dude has flat-out worries. He knows his arm is fine and roaring to go after surgery and training, but after recent ankle and knee issues after work-outs, he’s beginning to doubt his body’s ability to hold-up over a 16-game schedule.

Go figure.

The guy is almost 40 years old, and now he’s starting to wonder if the hundreds of sacks he’s endured in the last couple of decades will affect him in 2009.

Even if the government rebuilds Favre, those hits are still going to haunt him. Probably even until the day he dies. That’s just the way it is.

But at least he’s conflicted for the right reasons.

Favre is reportedly weary about a return, not because of money, not because he feels bad about “betraying” the Packers or his fans, but because he respects the game, and isn’t 100% positive he can pull this off.

But several NFL player would agree, and some have even told him personally, “ya think?”

It’d be crazy for any NFL player to step into a season without any doubts or concerns about injury or poor play, especially after a season in which they had just endured both.

However, Favre, as usual, is pulling the trigger a bit too early. And perhaps, this is why he’s leaving the door open by continuing work-outs. And so it seems, Brad Childress agrees.

While there had been reports out of ProFootballTalk.com that the Vikings (and everyone else in the football world) were moving on, head coach Brad Childress (who’s opinion actually matters) has not set a date, and would still welcome Favre to Minnesota with open arms.

It’s true, Favre has been “adamant” about retiring for good this time after speaking with prestigious and reliable reporters, Ed Werder and Peter King. However, in a recent conversation with friend, mentor, and former coach, Steve Mariucci, Favre was again unsure of his decision.

There’s a shocker.

After Mariucci asked Favre how he would feel the next morning about his decision, Favre replied, “I’m wondering that myself.”

But before you add to the pile of criticism that is already on Favre’s legend, take a step back and think about what he’s actually doing.

He’s telling the team, Minnesota, that his been courting him all summer, that right now he cannot commit. He’s not holding them hostage. He’s not demanding anything. And he can’t make any promises.

He’s merely stating the obvious, and being completely candid. The guy is 39, has been beaten up, and despite feeling able and strong enough to still play in the NFL, he just doesn’t want to show up for 11 games again and then ruin another team’s season with a horrible five-game stretch.

And can you blame him?

Well, some will, and some won’t.

But either way, this isn’t about Favre necessarily being indecisive anymore. It’s more about doing what’s right at the moment, and then making a concrete decision before the season kicks off.

There are still other variables in place that Favre could be pondering.

Perhaps Minnesota isn’t the only team he’s interested in playing for? Maybe he’s just saying no for now, and his a behind-doors-agreement with Childress that he will return to the league at a future, set time.

Maybe, and maybe not.

Still, the latest reports from ProFootballTalk.com are now saying that many players on the team “are convinced” that Favre will return, and his delayed un-retirement is due to soreness and all sides not wanting to put him through a rigorous training camp.

Considering his legend, his healing arm, and his age, can you really argue against that? I can’t. Especially not if Minnesota (or some other team) fully intends on having him around for a full 16 games.

Regardless of your take on Favre or Minnesota, I am happily sad to inform you: the Favre Saga is far from over.

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Information, quotes, and names can be credited to Rotoworld.com, Minneapolis Star tribune, ProFootballTalk.com, and ESPN.

Brett Favre to Stay Retired

Favre broke his weeks of silence by informing Vikings head coach, Brad Childress, that he would in fact stay retired.

The decision apparently happened sometime Tuesday afternoon, and the definite answer from Favre prompted Childress to inform the Minneapolis Star Tribune of the future Hall of Famer’s decision.

The “daily grind” of the NFL was the cited reason for Favre ending his comeback attempt, as the near 40-year old didn’t feel his body could compete with the rigors of a 16-game NFL schedule anymore.

It now appears that the starting quarterback job in Minnesota will be decided in a battle between Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels, two quarterbacks that never stopped working toward the goal of starting for Minnesota, despite the constant Favre rumors.

Vikings player had been expressing their “want” for Favre to sign with the team lately, while others such as defensive end Jared Allen, wished he would make up his mind.

Favre originally set July 30th as his ultimate deadline, and has made his decision with two days to spare.

While it’s entirely possible the master of indecisiveness could change his mind, or even sign with a different team mid-way through the season, it is clear at this time that Favre is content with staying retired, and simply doesn’t have any more football left in him.

Michael Vick: Five Potential Suitors

With his partial reinstatement back in the NFL, Michael Vick suddenly has a lot to think about. Or worry about, depending on your outlook on his financial situation, as well as his professional football career.

Regardless, some team out there in the NFL will be interested enough to take him on. After all, despite some bad PR for taking on such a risk, there is always the good PR for being the team that “rescued” Vick, and gave him another chance.

While conventional picks for a Vick signing, San Francisco, Seattle, Washington, and Oakland all being ruled out (thanks to NFL Insider, Adam Schefter) Vick’s landing spot just got a little more difficult to predict.

Vick is currently under a special reinstatement that will allow him to participate in all team activities, including the entire training camp, as well as the final two pre-season games. His current suspension until week six is reportedly not a “done deal”, and could erode into no suspension at all.

Depending on Vick’s behavior, he could be able to play in week one.

However, that doesn’t do fans much good, considering teams aren’t exactly lining up to pay for his services.

Still, he’s still too talented to not have a place in this league, and as long as a team believes he’s truly remorseful and a changed person, he will definitely be suiting up for someone in 2009, and very possibly as the starter.

Here’s a look at five teams that could pull the trigger:

Miami Dolphins

Current Starter: Chad Pennington

True, the Dolphins have a capable starter in Pennington, and have two young signal callers, Chad Henne and Pat White, who they would probably prefer to have on the roster, rather than the controversial Vick.

However, if Vick’s speed and explosiveness haven’t left him, he would potentially be a perfect fit for their Wildcat offense.

Again, White was drafted both for that, as well as a possible quarterback that could out-perform Henne.

But if Vick was just signed to a one-year deal, the Dolphins could mold the rest of their offense around him, and give it a go.

The worst case scenario would be that the team upsets the 33-year old Pennington. And considering they’ve already stated that Henne is their guy for 2010, they won’t be too worried about that.

Verdict: If it’s all about the Wildcat in Miami, then why not? Very possible.

St. Louis Rams

Current Starter: Marc Bulger

The Rams are moving in different directions on both sides of the ball. They are trying to be more defensive-minded, while changing their air attack offense into a more time-controlled ground attack.

With Steven Jackson, that’s entirely possible. With Marc Bulger? Not so much.

The Rams could really use an extra explosive weapon on offense, as well as an athletic and elusive passer that can help their line grow as a unit, rather than take sack after sack.

Bulger has been ineffective for two straight years, is mobile as a rock, and is older than Vick.

The Rams play indoors and with their current rebuilding project, would be a fine place for Vick to start over.

Verdict: If you can upgrade over Bulger, you should. Unless the Rams hate him, it’s a perfect fit.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Current Starter: David Garrard

Garrard regressed last season, but also showed improved passing skills and the ability to take over games with both his arm and legs.

However, he’s not the explosive player that Vick is. He may have better accuracy and is currently a better fit for the offense, but Vick’s potential in an offense that already doesn’t really rely on it’s air attack is quite interesting.

With a player like Vick, a patchwork offensive line turns into “not such a big deal”, while opening things up for newly acquired Torry Holt, Maurice Jones-Drew, and possibly turning the inconsistent Marcedes Lewis into a more reliable target.

The Jaguars are said to be remotely interested in his availability, and if his suspension is lifted, Jack Del Rio just might try this one last dash to save his job.

Verdict: Vick is about as good as Garrard as a passer, but blows him away in athleticism. Slightly possible.

Dallas Cowboys

Current Starter: Tony Romo

There’s no way Dallas would bring in Vick to take over for Romo, but if they’re truly adamant about implementing the Wildcat offense, signing Vick to a one-year deal wouldn’t be a bad decision.

After all, Jerry Jones has already shown he likes to take chances with both Terrell Owens and Adam “Pacman” Jones.

The real question isn’f if Dallas wants Vick or if he’ll fit in. We know Jones and co. loves talent.

The question is, has Jones learned his lesson?

Verdict: Jones will probably continues to take silly chances, but this is still unlikely. Vick wants a starting gig at all costs.

Minnesota Vikings

Current Starter: Undecided

If Brett Favre does indeed come back, this drops from unlikely to completely unrealistic.

However, if the Vikings are even slightly worried about Favre making it through a full 16 -game season, adding Vick as a situational passer wouldn’t be a terrible idea.

After all, if Favre does indeed sign, Tarvaris Jackson has reportedly said he’d want to be traded, which would leave the door open for another athletic quarterback to run special packages-if that’s something Minnesota would be interested in.

My gut tells me Favre signs, Jackson leaves, and Sage Rosenfels does what he does best: holds a clipboard and refrains from helicopter dives.

Verdict: Vick’s best shot at starting in the NFL is in St. Louis, with Miami taking the immediate backseat. Favre is likely to sign, making this move almost impossible.

Overall, there could still be random interest in Vick across the league, depending on injuries in pre-season, as well as poor play.

For example, if the Jets suddenly weren’y happy with Kellen Clemens or Mark Sanchez, it’s not too crazy to imagine them bringing Vick in.

I’m still not sold on Washington, Oakland, Seattle, and San Francisco all having no desire to even bring Vick in for a tryout.

Monitor these five situations, however, as they currently appear to be the most logical.

2009 Fantasy Football: Third-Year Receivers

(Calvin Johnson has already arrived.)

Everyone knows the old cliche’ about wide receivers. They don’t always make an immediate impact as rookies, and despite having natural talent, usually take a while to carve a niche with their team.

About three years, to be exact.

Not everyone can be Randy Moss and bust out 17 touchdowns in their first try, or like last year’s Eddie Royal, and haul in 91 receptions.

No, sometimes fantasy owners and NFL teams are forced to go the traditional route and wait.

Here’s a look at the wide receivers from the 2007 NFL Draft, who are entering their third season, with analysis on their progress and role with their team.

(This article will only analyze those receivers taken in the 2007 draft.)

1. Calvin Johnson (Detroit Lions)

Johnson is arguably a top-three fantasy receiver, depending on who you’re talking to.

Despite not having a dependable quarterback, or any sort of supporting cast, Johnson racked up over 1,300 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2008.

The new regime is reportedly enamored with Johnson (how couldn’t they be?), as he’s poised to match last year’s numbers, and possibly add to them.

Prediction: 85 rec., 1,479 yards, 13 TD

2. Dwayne Bowe (Kansas City Chiefs)

Bowe has already made a quiet name for himself, as he was the second-best weapon (behind Tony Gonzalez) on Kansas City’s offense in 2008.

With Matt Cassel coming to town, Bowe should easily crack 1,000 yards again with a pass-happy system and an upgrade at the signal caller position.

Bowe has already showed glimpses of his potential with 12 touchdowns in his first two seasons. This should be his break-out year.

Prediction: 87 rec, 1,244 yards, nine TD

3. Anthony Gonzalez (Indianapolis Colts)

Gonzalez has been showing for the past two years that his speed and hands are more than able to make up for the loss of future Hall of Famer, Marvin Harrison.

His chemistry with Peyton Manning improves with every day of practice, and there’s no doubt Gonzelez can improve (and will) on his 2008 numbers of 57 catches, 664 yards, and four scores.

Prediction: 81 rec, 1,209 yards, eight TD

4. Ted Ginn Jr. (Miami Dolphins)

Ginn has progressed slower than many had hoped, but he has still shown flashes of electric play-making ability, and has starred as a solid return man, too.

His role has been increasing in the offense over his two years with the team, and to avoid the Wildcat offense from getting predictable, his production will have to increase.

Prediction: 74 rec, 1,088 yards, seven TD

5. Steve Breaston (Arizona Cardinals)

Breaston has been quite impressive already, as he topped 1,000 yards as the Cardinals reliable third option.

Apparently it’s not very difficult to get open when you have Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin taking all the attention from the secondary. Go figure.

Breaston has already “broken out” more than he or anyone else could have hoped, considering he was the third option last year, and will continue to be in 2009.

His numbers are likely to dip a bit, but that doesn’t mean he hasn’t already “arrived.”

Prediction: 72 rec, 955 yards, five TD

6. Steve Smith (New York Giants)

With Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer out of town, Steve Smith is likely to pair up with Domenik Hixon (at least in the early going), and will have a legitimate chance at locking down a starting role.

Smith has good hands and is a solid route runner, and also possesses underrated speed and quickness. If he and Manning can continue the chemistry that landed him 57 catches and over 500 yards.

Prediction: 79 rec, 855 yards, three TD

7. Sidney Rice (Minnesota Vikings)

Rice battled injuries last year, taking him down a peg after putting forth solid effort in his rookie year.

With the potential (and likely) addition of Brett Favre, Rice could easily develop into a solid red-zone target, and could also be a decent down-field threat, as his speed has gotten better every year.

Prediction: 58 rec, 744 yards, six TD

8. James Jones (Green Bay Packers)

Jones and fellow slot receiver candidate, Jordy Nelson, both arguably have the talent right now to unseat Donald Driver.

Unfortunately, they will have to settle (at least for 2009) for fighting over third receiver duties.

While Nelson appears to have the upper hand with better size, speed, and hands, Jones may have more ability after the catch, making him a better fit for the slot.

Regardless, Green Bay’s system leaves the door open for tons of yards and scores to go around, especially as Aaron Rodgers matures.

Prediction: 46 rec, 690 yards, five TD

9. Johnnie Lee Higgins (Oakland Raiders)

Higgins is in line for contending for a starting role, and may end up with one of the starting gigs, almost by default.

Seventh overall selection, Darrius Heyward-Bey, has been slowed for the past month with injuries, and Javon Walker hasn’t been able to put forth 100 percent of his effort in over a year.

Higgins was a highlight reel waiting to happen on returns (three scores), and it’s clear Oakland coaches will do what is necessary to get the ball in his hands.

Prediction: 45 rec, 722 yards, four TD

10. Mike Walker (Jacksonville Jaguars)

Dennis Northcutt and Matt Jones are gone, which leaves the door open for Walker to step in and snag the spot opposite of Torry Holt.

Walker has the skills needed to make the jump, and in limited action, has impressed.

Prediction: 44 rec, 596 yards, three TD

11. Laurent Robinson (St. Louis Rams)

Robinson was a bit of a disappointment in Atlanta, which prompted the Falcons to send him packing to St. Louis.

Now Robinson is a better environment to utilize his skills, but will also have some young talent around him, making his production difficult to gauge.

Prediction: 42 rec, 539 yards, four TD

12. Jason Hill (San Francisco 49ers)

Until further notice, Michael Crabtree and Isaac Bruce are not starters, while Josh Morgan and Jason Hill are.

Hill has good after-the-catch ability, and could snag a spot in the slot, regardless of the play of Crabtree.

Prediction: 39 rec, 477 yards, three TD

13. Chansi Stuckey (New York Jets)

Stuckey burst onto the scene early last year with some nice catches and decent performances, as he and Brett Favre formed some solid chemistry.

However, that eroded mid-way through the season, and we never saw that confident, rising receiver again.

It’s unlikely he’ll reach his potential with Kellen Clemens or a first-year Mark Sanchez throwing him the ball, but he’s a better bet than, say, a Titans receiver.

Prediction: 41 rec, 505 yards, four TD

14. Robert Meachem (New Orleans Saints)

Meachem only makes this list because Drew Brees spreads the ball around more than Fabio spreads I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter, and that Saints offense is insanely sick.

He can still run with the best of them, and even as their fourth option, could still put up some decent numbers.

Prediction: 33 rec, 421 yards, three TD

15. Dwayne Jarrett (Carolina Panthers)

Muhsin Muhammad won’t be around forever to rescue Steve Smith from double teams. Come to think of it, I’m not sure he was that great at it last year.

Jarrett isn’t guaranteed slot duties, and is still in a run-first offense. But if he can show he can get it done in pre-season, he could prove to be a dangerous weapon with Steve Smith distracting the secondary.

Like many receivers, though, he’ll have to start slow.

Prediction: 22 rec, 311 yards, four TD

Fantasy Football: 15 Players to Draft With Confidence

After going through the top 50 players in the league who provide good potential but give you reason to worry, I decided to put together a smaller list of guys that you shouldn’t think twice about drafting.

Drew Brees (pictured) doesn’t even have to be on the list. But a better example there is not.

Outside of a freak, Tom Brady-like injury, Brees should easily top 4,500 yards again and could flirt with 30 scores for the second straight year.

He is clearly what makes that potent offense go, and with a healthy arsenal of weapons all around him, there’s no reason to doubt him or the Saints in 2009.

But Brees is just the first of many players you shouldn’t second-guess.

However, sometimes when you’re drafting, those “guarantees” will fly off the board, and you’re left with too many decisions and not enough real answers.

Read on to see if the players you’re targeting in your draft are “sure things.”

(List is in no particular order.)

1. Randy Moss, WR, New England Patriots

This isn’t Oakland or Minnesota.

Randy Moss is playing dominant football, and he’s doing it with a smile.

Even without his stud quarterback, Tom Brady, he had a solid 2008, with over 1,000 yards and 10 scores.

He may not get back to 23 touchdowns, but with Brady and that offense gearing for a potential return to 2007 form, he’s as safe a bet as any star receiver.

Prediction: 84 rec, 1,390 yards, 15 TD

2. Wes Welker, WR, New England Patriots

Much like Moss, Welker benefits from a great New England system, as well as the return of 2007’s NFL MVP, Tom Brady.

Again, like Moss, the most beautiful part about this receiver is that even without his star quarterback, his production really didn’t drop off too much.

Mark him down for two straight seasons with at least 111 catches and 1,100 yards.

I’d bet on a third.

Prediction: 115 rec, 1,224 yards, 7 TD

3. Peyton Manning, QB, Indianapolis Colts

Manning won’t miss Marvin Harrison as much as many think.

Harrison has been on a downward slide for two seasons now, and Manning has been able to build great chemistry with his No. 1 guy, Reggie Wayne, as well as Dallas Clark and Anthony Gonzalez.

Gonzalez gives the Colts the speed Harrison “used” to have, as well as reliable hands and good route-running.

With offensive coordinator Tom Moore back under contract, you can safely assume Manning should be in line for his usual 26-plus touchdowns and 4,000-plus yards.

You can talk about age (33) and last year’s knee surgery all you want, but the guy has never tossed fewer than 26 touchdowns and has passed for less than 4,000 yards just twice in his entire career.

Oh, and he was the league’s MVP last year. Yeah, he’s still got it.

Prediction: 4,177 yards, 30 TD, 14 INT

4. Reggie Wayne, WR, Indianapolis Colts

t’s as simple as this: If you’re even remotely sold on Manning continuing his dominance (he will), then Wayne is your second man in line.

He’s basically been Manning’s go-to guy for the past two years, anyways (sorry Marvin).

The guy is just entering his prime at 30 years old and is only one season removed from a sickening 104-catch, 1,500-yard season.

Expect a return to his 2007 form, or very close to it.

Prediction: 97 rec, 1,388 yards, 11 TD

5. Antonio Gates, TE, San Diego Chargers

Sure, Gates’ receptions have gone from 89 to 71 to 75, and then all the way down to 60 last year.

But he hasn’t scored fewer than eight touchdowns since his rookie year.

Yeah, that’s five straight years of being the league’s best tight end.

However, his bum toe has taken him out of his title spot (you’re welcome, Jason Witten), and now he mostly settles for touchdowns as the Chargers’ third receiving option.

Gates should be close to full health in 2009, though, which should mean fewer plays as a decoy and anywhere from 15 to 30 more grabs.

If all else fails, you have his insane touchdown production to fall back on.

Prediction: 80 rec, 985 yards, 12 TD

6. LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, San Diego Chargers

Like his teammate Gates, Tomlinson played through nagging injuries in 2008 that slowed him down and kept him from being his usual electrifying self.

L.T. put up solid numbers (1,110 yards and 11 TD) in what experts called a “down” year.

That may be true, but only because L.T. has shown us for so many years what he is capable of.

The franchising of Darren Sproles means that L.T.’s production is very unlikely to get back anywhere close to his majestic 2006 season, and possibly not even his elite 2007 production.

However, he’s still in his prime, and if he can do damage with all the injuries he had last year, he definitely has another year or two of quality production.

He may not be a surefire No. 1-4 pick, but he’s still a first-rounder.

Prediction: 1,390 yards, 12 TD, 55 rec, 477 yards, 3 TD

7. Clinton Portis, RB, Washington Redskins

Too much focus has been put on Portis’s late-season slump in 2008, where he failed to rush for a touchdown over a seven-game span and finished the season with less than 80 rushing yards in five straight contests.

His yards per carry was pretty pitiful down the stretch, too.

But here’s where common sense comes to the rescue.

The entire offense was pathetic during the last eight games, and a lot of that had to do with Jason Campbell’s lack of a killer instinct and Jim Zorn’s offense becoming too predictable.

Portis should be good for another hot start as the offense continues to grow and the other young weapons around him mature.

Be aware of the possibility of another late-season collapse, but at just 27, that’s a bit of a reach.

Prediction: 1,466 yards, 10 TD, 35 rec, 349 yards, 2 TD

8. Jason Witten, TE, Dallas Cowboys

While everyone else is reaching for Donald Driver or Jerricho Cotchery as their WR3, you can smile with confidence as you snag Witten as YOUR third receiving option.

With Terrell Owens gone, Witten is more like a receiver than ever, and he should keep his reception and yardage total high while he gets back to the six- or seven-touchdown range.

He’s too big, fast, and strong to be kept out of the end zone for long without pay dirt hog T.O. gone.

Prediction: 94 rec, 1,117 yards, 8 TD

9. Adrian Peterson, RB, Minnesota Vikings

Duh.

As if you weren’t expecting Mr. “All-Day” to show up on this list sooner or later.

Sure, he fumbles, plays recklessly, and is in an increasingly more competitive division (on paper) by the day.

But when the guy can run over AND around just about anybody he wants to, it’s pretty hard to doubt his abilities.

His play could catch up with him eventually, but if Brett Favre signs, something tells me it won’t be happening in 2009.

With a true presence (albeit a 40-year-old one) behind center, Peterson will finally shine to his fullest.

Just an interesting note:

Jets RB Thomas Jones’ 2007 TD total (before Favre arrived: ONE

Jones’ total with Favre at QB in 2008: 13

A.P. scored 10 times last year while leading the league in rushing with over 1,700 yards.

Oh, the possibilities.

Prediction: 1,669 yards, 17 TD, 27 rec, 288 yards, 2 TD

10. Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers

The entire 2008 season was about taking the place of a legend and making his own mark in Green Bay.

Aaron Rodgers did both. The only problem was, his defense didn’t back him up at all.

With a new scheme and players in new spots in some areas, Rodgers will hopefully have a serviceable defense defending the other end zone.

In the meantime, Rodgers still has a hell of a right arm, is mobile, and has a slew of offensive weapons who are just as productive as he is.

With over 4,000 yards passing and 31 total touchdowns in his first year as a starter, it’s safe to say he’s arrived.

Now just cross your fingers he makes it through 16 games—again.

Prediction: 3,988 yards, 27 TD, 14 INT

11. Steve Smith, WR, Carolina Panthers

Smith is being held back by an ineffective quarterback and average receivers surrounding him, yet is still an elite fantasy option.

And a consistent and reliable one to boot.

Despite Jake Delhomme’s poor play at times, Smith is still arguably a top-five option and is entering his prime.

He still has game-breaking speed, excellent hands, and body control, and he makes plays on every ball thrown his way.

Don’t let Delhomme scare you away from four straight 1,000-yard seasons.

Prediction: 85 rec, 1,369 yards, 9 TD

12. Roddy White, WR, Atlanta Falcons

White is officially “the” guy in Atlanta’s passing game, and even the arrival of Tony Gonzalez shouldn’t change that.

His chemistry with Matt Ryan is outstanding and should only improve, while two straight seasons of 1,200-plus yards and at least six scores should keep you salivating.

He’s also grabbed over 83 balls in each of the past two seasons.

He’s only 27 and is just going to get better.

Prediction: 90 rec, 1,444 yards, 10 TD

13. Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Arizona Cardinals

Forget about his ridiculous 2008 postseason run.

Tons of players go “off” in the playoffs and then fizzle out the next season.

Fitz, however, has been doing this for years.

Draft him based on the three 1,400-yard and 10-plus touchdown seasons out of his last four tries.

The guy has size, speed, reliable hands, excellent body control, and a Pro Bowl quarterback.

Just knock on wood when thinking about him being on the Madden cover.

Prediction: 101 rec, 1,515 yards, 15 TD

14. Kurt Warner, QB, Arizona Cardinals

What are you waiting for, Warner to grow a long, white beard, fall and break his hip, or retire unexpectedly?

Don’t wait on it.

Warner may be 38, but he isn’t playing with the body of the usual late-30s quarterback. He still has a good arm and is sickly accurate.

Oh, and he has two of the game’s best receiving options (Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin), as well as underrated third and fourth options.

Sure, he could always shatter like glass, but then again, so could anyone else in this league.

If you’re really that worried, grab Matt Leinart later in the draft as insurance.

Prediction: 4,377 yards, 29 TD, 15 INT

15. Steve Jackson, RB, St. Louis Rams VS. Frank Gore, RB, San Francisco 49ers

Both Steven Jackson and Frank Gore are elusive backs with exceptional speed, inside running ability, and vision.

The trouble is, they can’t stay completely healthy, and the rest of their offense stinks.

Neither has a reliable quarterback or passing game, and both of their defenses still could use some work.

However, the tide is turning.

Despite all of these things working against them, both backs have churned out back-to-back 1,000-yard campaigns and have tons of room for fantasy optimism.

Jackson has a new coach with an emphasis on defense and running the ball.

Ding, ding, ding! We’ve got a winner.

You can say much the same for Gore as well.

His quarterback situation may not be resolved completely in 2009, but his carries should increase, as the Mike Martz system kept him well below 300 carries.

Both backs should see the ball at least 18 to 25 times a game and are still the featured offensive players on their teams.

So, barring a major injury, they should easily be top-10 fantasy backs and are viable RB1 candidates.

Jackson Prediction: 1,359 yards, 11 TD, 64 rec, 525 yards, 2 TD

Gore Prediction: 1,288 yards, nine TD, 49 rec, 358 yards, 2 TD

Why You Should Still Be a Fan of Brett Favre

(Above: Regardless of opinions, he’ll always be a Packer.)

I just watched a Brett Favre montage this morning, and something dawned on me.

The media and NFL fans are hating on Favre way too much.

But then I realized something else. It’s not necessarily what we think about him now that matters.

What is important, is that we don’t forget everything he’s done.

Yes, he’s playing with our emotions, stepping on the fine line that is betrayal, and testing our patience.

But to a certain degree, he should be able to.

For a man that gave every part of his body to the game, he deserves a little more love and respect than a one-year turn around of “I hate Favre” discussion.

Not feeling the love?

Think back a bit, before the retirement drama, the New York Jets, or even the Aaron Rodgers selection.

To be a fan of Favre and the Green Bay Packers was bliss.

Here’s some stats (as a Packer) to swallow down before you write No. 4 off for good:

• Three NFL MVP Awards
• 9 Pro Bowls
• Two Super Bowls (One Win)
• Three NFC Championship Games
• The Consecutive Started Games Streak
• 22 Playoff Appearances (12-10 record)
• Broke Dan Marino’s major records in Green Bay
• 160 Regular Season Wins as a Packer
• 7 Division Titles
• 11 Playoff Appearances
• 15 Winning Seasons (above .500) in Green Bay

Those numbers are impressive enough to humble any scorned fan.

Now, written words and numbers may not completely melt your heart and turn you back into a fan of Favre again, but some video clips of some of his finer moments might.

Don’t think of the Jets or the possibilities with the Vikings when you think of Favre.

Think of the records he broke, the games he won, and the interceptions that had you pulling out your hair.

Because if you could put yourself back in that time and do it all over again, you know you wouldn’t want it any other way.

Remember when Dan Marino’s career touchdown record against the Vikings?

This was the moment in that 2007 season that you knew it was going to be special. After Favre broke Marino’s record, it was smooth sailing, as he ended the season with over 4,000 yards and 28 touchdowns, as Green Bay earned a playoff bye with a 13-3 record.

Stop filling your heart and mind with hate, and realize two things: Brett Favre is human, and he was a Green Bay Packer for 16 seasons.

Don’t those 16 years out-weigh the last two?

I think so. But I’ll let this do the rest of my convincing.

True, this “Ode to Favre” was before his two retirements, but if you’re a true Packer, Brett Favre, and football fan, it just shouldn’t matter.

Fantasy Football: Top 5 Rookies

There won’t be a Matt Ryan or Joe Flacco this year.

Mark Sanchez could see his team get the playoffs, but it will undoubtedly not be because he throws for 3,000 yards and 20+ touchdowns.

There’s not going to be an Adrian Peterson, or a slew of Chris Johnson’s, Steve Slaton’s, and Matt Forte’s.

Realistically, there are only two rookie running backs worth drafting in the top five rounds.

That might even be a reach.

Wide Receivers are no different.

There are a few with a solid chance at starting, and a few more with duties in the slot almost guaranteed.

But superstars? Not even Michael Crabtree.

If you must take a chance, or are investing for a dynasty or keeper league, here’s the top five guys that could pan out, just as you’d hoped.

Honorable Mentions: Donald Brown, Shonne Green, LeSean McCoy, Kenny Britt, Percy Harvin

5.Michael Crabtree, WR, San Francisco 49ers

Regardless of what some biased scouts said about him, the guy can flat-out play.

He has the hands, smarts, and body control of a dominant NFL wide receiver, and that’s exactly what he’ll be-some day.

Crabtree is still behind Isaac Bruce, Josh Morgan, and probably even Jason Hill.

Due to missed practices and the depth ahead of him, Crabtree is in danger of starting his rookie year as the fourth option.

He’s still been going high (eighth) round, so you may have to fight for him.

But I suggest you let someone else take that chance.

4. Brian Robiskie, WR, Cleveland Browns

If there’s any receiver who is a shoe-in to start, it’s Robiskie.

He has exceptional hands and body control, and reportedly runs routes and handles coverage like a veteran.

He may not have blazing speed, but Robiskie is vastly underrated, and projects to snag the number two spot before the season starts.

Robiskie would make for a nice steal in rounds 8 to 10.

3. Knownshon Moreno, RB, Denver Broncos

He could very well end up being the best player on this list (this year, and beyond), but his offensive system and depth at his position really don’t suggest so.

Head Coach Josh McDaniels runs 3-4 backs at all times, and prefers the pass over the run. If Kyle Orton does well, they’ll stick to that plan, which could have Moreno falling short of 1,000 yards, despite being “the starter.”

2. Jeremy Maclin, WR, Philadelphia Eagles

There’s simply too much talent ahead of him for him to start right away.

Kevin Curtis has paid his dues and is still effective, while it’s unrealistic to think the electric DeSean Jackson will take a back seat to the rookie.

Maclin’s talent is off the charts, though, with excellent size, speed, and hands.

He won’t start the season as Philly’s go-to receiver, but he’s likely to send Curtis to slot duties, eventually.

1. Chris “Beanie” Wells, RB, Arizona Cardinals

Don’t buy the hype.

Tim Hightower is a failed experiment, and Arizona spent a first rounder on Wells for a good reason: to start him.

He may be eased into the role, but there’s no reason to have him sit behind the ineffective Hightower.

Hightower has a slight advantage in the passing game, but expecting that to keep Wells off the field is simply laughable.

The Cardinals aim to have a more balanced attack, and if Wells can help make that successful, he could post the best numbers of all the rookies.

Tarvaris Jackson To Demand Trade Out Of Minnesota?

There are reports being circulated that upon Brett Favre’s eventual signing, Tarvaris Jackson will request (or demand) to be traded.

Boo-friggin-hoo.

So what?

Forget about the Favre signing. Just trade the guy now.

Get what you can for him. He has decent stats and has some playing experience in the West Coast Offense.

All of that makes him an immediately solid back-up for St. Louis and Seattle, and he could even be considered for clipboard duty in Chicago, Washington, Carolina, or San Francisco.

The fact is, despite his ineffectiveness and poor accuracy at times, Jackson is still only 26, and still has a ton of potential.

Coming from a Favre-to-Vikings promoter, and a usually “down on Tarvaris” writer-this means something.

Jackson is done in Minnesota. Dead, drowned, beaten and left to breathe his last breath.

Face it, deal with it, accept it. It’s over.

Even if Favre signs, breaks his hip, and screams “curses” all across the NFL world, Sage Rosenfels would probably get the go-ahead over Jackson, at this point.

Dare I even go as far as mentioning John David Booty?

Jackson is a mobile quarterback with a decent arm that can make some plays every so often.

An accurate, clutch, game-managers, he is not.

There are several teams (in the NFC, alone) that could use a quality back-up. Some could even use a starter-and almost all of them wouldn’t mind grabbing a cheap project passer to play with.

Consider Tarvaris Jackson the newest ball of yarn, and the rest of the NFL a litter of cats eager to pick and prod at him.

He may get cut up and scratched a bit, but he’s worth a sniff.

The general consensus was that Jackson’s (along with man-lover Brad Childress) days were already numbered, pre-Favre rumors.

Now that number four is actually on his way in? Yeah, numero seis is toast.

But enough with Spanish, he-said/she-said’s, and semantics.

The guy is heading somewhere besides Minnesota’s starting line-up or bench.

The real questions is, where?

Brett Favre Works Out with Vikings Offensive Coordinator

(Above: Is Minnesota this way?)

That’s right. It just keeps getting better.

There is even more evidence to support the rumors of Brett Favre joining his former team’s long-time hated rival.

ESPN’s Ed Werder has reported that offensive coordinator (and Favre’s good friend) Darrell Bevell personally traveled to Hattiesburg, MS, to work with Favre.

Bevell reportedly put Favre through several “rigorous” workouts, including a drill that included 100 throws.

Favre is apparently still not 100 percent after this report, but he’s close.

The report also said that during Bevell’s time in Mississippi, Favre told him that his decision may be delayed, due to the uncertainty of the arm, and Favre’s comfort level of committing, despite not feeling completely healthy.

Favre and the Vikings still have time to take their courtship slowly, as Minnesota’s camp doesn’t begin until July 30.

That gives Favre roughly 17 days to work out the kinks in his arm/shoulder, and sign with the Vikings.

However, rumors have been swirling all over the place that Favre has not only already signed, but he’s put a down payment on a condo, and his jerseys are already being made.

While those other tidbits of so-called “information” can’t be completely counted on, Favre eventually signing with Minnesota can be.

Everything you hear about is basically a formality at this point, as Favre and the Vikings are just waiting until ticket sales start.

Regardless, the reported meetings with both Eric Sugarman (trainer), and Bevell suggest one of two things.

• Favre really isn’t 100 percent, and he’s worried about the arm and committing to Minnesota.
• Favre is completely ready, and the trainers and coaches are training with him in Mississippi until his signing is announced.

Both are completely possible, while considering all of the events in Favre’s media-ridden life (dating back to March of 2008) lead this writer to believe the latter bullet point is the most likely.

Even if Brett Favre isn’t signed, he’s unofficially a member of the Minnesota Vikings. That’s right. Go buy your purple No. 4 jersey.