Posts Tagged ‘aaron rodgers’

Donald Driver to Play Until 40?

He’s 34 years old, going on 35 in a couple of weeks, and he’s due $4 million next season (plus $3 million as a roster bonus).

Not the numbers you want to hear when you’re thinking of a rising team’s number two receiver.

Donald Driver has recently said that he’d like to keep playing in the NFL until he’s at least 40. While that’s a fine goal, it’s growing less and less likely that he will be able to retire as a Packer, if he does in fact continue aiming for this goal. Read more…

Brett Favre Adds to Legend as Vikings Beat Packers, 30-23

This was the first of two, and if we’re lucky, there could be more.

True, Brett Favre turns 40 in a week, the very number that analysts and experts are afraid to say, weary of an old man’s bone breaking mid-sentence, but at the same time can’t help but blurt out with laughter.

That Favre is an old dude, and he can still sling it.

Read more…

2009 Green Bay Packers: Five Things to Watch For

After going 13-3 in 2007, many fans felt they had their 2008 Green Bay Packers figured out.

But here we are, almost two summers later, and now we’re all making biased predictions on a 6-10 team without a true identity.

We know Aaron Rodgers can get it done on offense, but what about the offensive line and—almost as important—what about Ryan Grant?

Read on for those issues, as well as three others to monitor as the Packers gear up for an August that hopefully is full of answers.

5. The Brett Favre Affect

Yes, he’s retired, for now.

But even though he won’t be wearing green and gold again, he still could very well play a key role in what happens with the Packers in the NFC North this season, and quite possibly the playoffs.

The truth is, with Favre, you can never say never, and it’s ringing especially true when discussing his retirement plans.

There are rumors going both ways, and they’ll continue to do so until the initial kickoff to the 2009 season.

Until then, prepare for an August full of Favre drama, and a possible impending signing with the Minnesota Vikings or some other team.

4. Ryan Grant and the Ground Game

Grant began 2008 with hamstring and YPC issues after a contract hold-out, so this time around, he should be far more ready for the rigors of an NFL season.

Without the proper reps and training last season, Grant’s body wasn’t completely ready for the pounding, and his vision was nowhere near it was in 2007.

Still, despite not being at his best, Green Bay committed to the run, and Grant ended last season with over 1,200 yards.

The disappointing side of that was the team’s average 17th ranking in the NFL in rush yards per game, as well as Grant’s inability to convert at the goal-line effectively (four scores).

While the Packers will attempt to maintain a balanced offense as always, they still plan to run Grant 20-25 times a game, while spelling him with Brandon Jackson.

But after last year’s slow start, combined with another season of uncertainty in regards to the offensive line, can we truly expect progression?

3. The Offensive Line

The Packers O-Line has been a constantly changing group, and could possibly change for the worse (or better) depending on how you look at them, with the loss of Mark Tauscher.

It still isn’t unrealistic to imagine Tauscher re-joining Green Bay, but with so many young, active bodies ready to compete, it’s probably time to let the 32-year-old walk.

Another issue for Green Bay is assessing if Chad Clifton is still good enough to keep around, or if he has enough left in the tank to warrant any kind of a commitment.

In the mean time, it’s fair to say that this could be the make-or-break season for several players on the inconsistent line, especially Daryn Colledge.

In all regards, this is a very talented group of players in a solid system, although their consistency and toughness is routinely questioned.

2. Is There a Sophomore Slump in Line For Aaron Rodgers?

True, Rodgers isn’t “literally” a sophomore quarterback, but as far as his starting experience goes, he’s a newbie.

Rodgers performed sensationally last year, as he took over for the departed Favre, and tossed 28 touchdowins, over 4,000 yards, and even ran for three more scores.

Rodgers helped make Green Bay one of the more productive and efficient offenses, as he guided them to a 5th overall ranking in points scored, as well as 8th in total yards per game, and 8th in passing yards per game.

1. Will the Transition to the New 3-4 Defense be Successful?

Dom Capers came into Green Bay to shake up a few things.

In their old 4-3 defense, the Packers had too many players in wrong positions way too often, and it was clear that several of the players didn’t always understand their roles fully, as some of them often looked lost.

With Capers’ new switch to the 3-4, the goal is to get the right guys in place, get after the quarterback, and end the season with a better ranking than 2008’s 26th against the run.

With rookies Clay Matthews Jr. and B.J. Raji, it’s not impossible to expect at least a slight improvement, as the 3-4 defense is designed for active linebackers (which Green Bay has) to make plays and rush the passer.

The success of Aaron Kampman’s transition from traditional defensive end to outside linebacker will also be something to watch, going hand-in-hand with the defensive changes.

If the offensive line and running game can pick up some slack, the likely much more comfortable Rodgers should be able to put up even better numbers.

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.

2009 NFC Quarterback Preview

Tony Romo lost his most talented weapon (Terrell Owens) this off-season, and now only has Roy Williams as a reliable receiver target.

However, the word in Dallas is that Owens being gone will lift any distractions from the team, and will have the offense performing more fluidly and in turn, will be more effective.

Maybe, and maybe not.

Read on to see who wins the quarterback position battles, who is falling, and who is on the rise, in a team-by-team glance:

Eli Manning-New York Giants

Manning has been overrated ever since winning the Super Bowl, and now he doesn’t have an elite receiver to rely on anymore.

Still, the Giants drafted two fantastic receivers in Hakeem Nicks and Ramses Barden, and the other young talent they have looks to be better than advertised.

While many are down on the Giants offense, I’m making an early guarantee: This offense will soar.

Verdict: May end the season with the elite

Proj: 3,700 yards, 28 TD, 16 INT

Donovan McNabb-Philadelphia Eagles

Just the fact that McNabb stayed healthy last season gives me optimism for him and the Eagles in 2009.

If he can stay on the field, his new offensive weapons should aid him in getting back to prime form.

McNabb put up solid numbers last season, but with a healthy offense, he could approach his 2004 numbers.

Verdict: Three good receivers means only good things

Proj: 3,885 yards, 27 TD, 15 INT

Jason Campbell-Washington Redskins

Against my better judgment, I have to go into 2009 believing the Redskins are fully confident in Campbell.

If they’re not, they aren’t really preparing themselves with a trusted insurance policy.

Regardless, Campbell still has a good arm and shows poise in the pocket. If his young receivers can step up, there could be some modest progress.

Verdict: Still not a great FF option

Proj: 3,334 yards, 15 TD, 12 INT

Tony Romo-Dallas Cowboys

Romo won’t be able to throw it down the field as confidently, but he still has Jason Witten and a solid running back backing him.

The question isn’t if Roy Williams can show up. It’s more about the development of Miles Austin.

Verdict: A balanced offense keeps Romo in the top 10

Proj: 3,698 yards, 31 TD, 16 INT

Aaron Rodgers-Green Bay Packers

The problem in Green Bay is still their defense, and even if it gets better, it still won’t be great.

Rodgers stats will only increase, because he’ll have another season of having to keep Green Bay in high-scoring affairs.

Verdict: Top 10 pick

Proj: 3,966 yards, 27 TD, 14 INT

Jay Cutler-Chicago Bears

Cutler should be able to make something out of Hester, and will discover Greg Olsen to be a nice, speedy target at tight end.

The offensive weapons aren’t sexy, but with time, they definitely could be.

Matt Forte and the rest of the ground game will be Cutler’s new best friend.

Verdict: Cutler shocks some people and keeps 2008 form

Proj: 4,229 yards, 29 TD, 16 INT

Matthew Stafford-Detroit Lions

I speculated about it myself, and have now begun to hear rumors about Stafford starting “earlier than thought”.

I don’t have much faith in a severely regressed Culpepper, and also don’t feel the Lions have much to lose by throwing their rookie into the fire.

Verdict: That doesn’t mean he should be on your team, though.

Proj: 2,470 yards, 14 Td, 16 INT

Brett Favre-Minnesota Vikings

If Brett Favre does in fact stay retired, then I feel Brad Childress has had enough of Tarvaris Jackson, and we’ll see more of Sage Rosenfels, the “Human Helicopter”.

But after he finally spoke up, I believe Favre will be wearing purple come September.

Favre still has a gun (prodiving it doesn’t fall off), and he’s backed by the best running back in the league. He and the Vikings will be just fine.

Verdict: Serviceable

Proj: 3,639 yards, 24 TD, 16 INT

Jake Delhomme-Carolina Panthers

Despite his five-interception game against the Cardinals in the playoffs, Delhomme is still Jon Fox’s guy, or at least until we’re told otherwise.

The Panthers still have one of the NFL’s best receivers, Steve Smith, at his disposal, along with a great running back tandem to ease the pressure.

Verdict: As usual, he’ll do just fine

Proj: 3,779 yards, 24 TD, 14 INT

Matt Ryan-Atlanta Falcons

Forget about the strides he made, or the excellent chemistry he established with his receivers.

He and the rest of that ridiculous offense are entering year two of being comfortable, and now they have an elite tight end in Tony Gonzalez.

Verdict: Grab Ryan when you can

Proj: 3,591 yards, 25 TD, 13 INT

Byron Leftwich-Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Leftwitch easily beats on Josh Johnson and rookie Josh Freeman, but will probably have to work fairly hard to fend off the pesky veteran, Luke McCown.

In the end, though, Leftwitch has the best amount of experience and the best talent to lead this team, and could form a special connections with Antonio Bryant and Kellen Winslow.

Verdict: You can get him late-at doing so is advised

Proj: 2,677 yards, 18 TD, 9 INT

Drew Brees-New Orleans Saints

Is it really possibly for this guy to throw for over 5,000 yards in back-to-back season? Possible—yes. But it won’t happen. That’s just too insane.

Still, Sean Payton has tons of tricks up his sleeves, and Brees has way too much talent around him to drop off too much.

Verdict: Top five quarterback

Proj: 4,791 yards, 32 TD, 16 INT

Kurt Warner-Arizona Cardinals

Knock him for being old all you want, but I see Warner finishing 2009 healthy, and relatively still on top of his game.

With or without Anquan Boldin, this is a scary-good offense, and the addition of Ohio State’s Chris Wells only makes it tougher and nastier.

Verdict: Like Brees, a top five guy

Proj: 4,211 yards, 31 TD, 15 INT

Shaun Hill-San Francisco 49ers

If Mike Singletary wants to win, he’ll go with Hill. After all, all Hill does is lead an efficient offense and win games.

Hill won’t deliver big numbers, even if the Niner’s are winning, but he will still be the guy slinging passes for them in 2009.

Verdict: Stop-gap

Proj: 3,246 yards, 17 Td, 12 INT

Marc Bulger-St.Louis Rams

As a lover of football and good offensive production, I pray that the rumors of St. Louis being interested in Michael Vick are true.

Bulger has a lot to prove to have me forget about his last two seasons. His offense has been crumbling around him since 2007, but he still hasn’t looked very sharp, even when they’ve won games.

Verdict: Stay away until things get better

Proj: 2,798 yards, 15 TD, 15 INT

Matt Hasselbeck-Seattle Seahawks

Two things went horribly wrong for Seattle and Hasselbeck last season.

First, their running game never took off, and then all their receivers landed on IR.

Oh, and then Hasselbeck broke his back.

With Hasselbeck and his receiving corps back to full healthy, things are already looking up. The only question is, what will they be getting from their rush attack?

Verdict: Hasselbeck returns to near 2007 form.

Proj: 3,476 yards, 22 TD, 15 INT

Top Ten Early Candidates For 2009 NFL MVP

AP could be a shoe-in.

There are more lists filtering through this site than pop-up ads. It’s getting to that “awesomely ridiculous” stage.

And I’m not complaining. God, no. I love it.

What’s better than the actual NFL season? The answer is nothing, but a close second is the constant coverage it gets, despite being almost four months away.

We have the Brett Favre Saga, fantasy football hype, trades, roster changes, and best of all, rankings that in no way matter right now.

Such is the life of an NFL fan-waiting and praying over their team, their decisions, and crossing their fingers that their top guy doesn’t go all “Tom Brady” on them in training camp.

Oh, and then there’s the Madden Curse. Will Troy Polomalu and Larry Fitzgerald put an end to the curse? Heck, will we be seeing them facing off again in 2010’s title game?

To all, I say maybe.

But as long as we’re all stuck on maybe’s, let’s add a few more to the fire. Here are 10 guys who, based on past history and current situations, have a real shot at claiming this upcoming season’s MVP award.

1. Adrian Peterson, RB, Minnesota Vikings

His chances greatly increase if Brett Favre strolls into town, but even if he’s backed by Sage Rosenfels or Tarvaris Jackson, Peterson is primed for another huge year.

If the Vikings are going to have another shot at the division, Peterson will have to be at his best. In fact, even if he can simply match last season’s totals of 1,700 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, he’s a shoe-in.

Regardless, just a healthy season and a trip to the playoffs could lock it up for him.

2. Tom Brady, QB, New England Patriots

He’s up for Comeback Player of the Year in many people’s minds (and I’d agree), but how about two awards in one season?

If Brady doesn’t have any set-backs, it shouldn’t be too outlandish to expect at least 35 touchdowns and over 4,000 yards.

Oh, is that the definition of outlandish?

Sure, he tore his knee up and his been out of football for a year now, but his system, coaches, and offensive weapons are too good to slow him down for long.

Oh, and he’s Tom-friggin-Brady. Remember when Carson Palmer came back from his knee injury? Yeah, he was still pretty good.

Just imagine Brady.

3. Kurt Warner, QB, Arizona Cardinals

I know he’s old, but I’m tired of doubting Warner. He’s just too nice of a guy.

Still, I’m not picking him as a candidate because he gives thanks to God or bagged groceries with a smile on his face. He makes the list because with or without Anquan Boldin, he has a sick offense, and last time we saw him, he was still ungodly amazing.

Unless an unfortunate injury vaults Matt Leinart into the line-up, we can get ready to see another 3,700+ yard season, and close to 30 touchdowns.

There has to be a drop-off eventually, but something tells me 2009 isn’t the year it happens.

4. Frank Gore, RB, San Francisco 49ers

After coming out of nowhere to put up over 1,600 yards a few years ago, Gore has put together two average seasons for a starting running back.

However, it’s nowhere close to being his fault, and any kind of positive results from the quarterback position could pay huge dividends, both for Gore and the entire offense.

As that passing game begins to get more respected (a big if), Gore will be able to run more freely.

5. Drew Brees, QB, New Orleans Saints

Can we expect another run at Dan Marino’s yardage record (5,084)? Sure.

Brees still has the same weapons and system, and last time I checked, is still Drew Brees.

As long as the Saints defense can hold up, and they can get consistency out of their running game, Brees keeping his 2008 form is very possible.

To snag the MVP, though, he may have to do more than just make the playoffs. The Saints may have to win the division.

6. Peyton Manning, QB, Indianapolis Colts

Manning is the poster boy for consistency, and is constantly among the league leaders in every passing category.

He loses offensive coordinator Tom Moore, as well as Marvin Harrison, but still has the same offense (roughly), and a ton of weapons.

The deciding factor on Manning is if the Colts can stay among the elite, despite drastic loss, and whether or not Anthony Gonzalez and Austin Collie can step-up and produce behind Reggie Wayne.

7. Donovan McNabb, QB, Philadelphia Eagles

McNabb finally put in a full 16 games in 2008, and it paid off.

Despite his team’s early struggles, McNabb and his offense re-grouped, and ended the season with a hard-fought battle with the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC Championship game.

McNabb now has three solid receivers at his disposal after the front office nabbed Missouri’s Jeremy Maclin, ensuring him the chance at another top-ten season if he can stay healthy.

As long as he’s healthy and doesn’t drop-off, McNabb now has the necessary tools to pick defenses apart, while having a one-two punch at running back to help finish the job.

8. Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers

Too soon? I don’t think so.

In his first season, amidst all the controversy of the Brett Favre situation, Rodgers stepped up in a big way, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 28 touchdowns.

Rodgers proved to be an exceptional leader, and made enough big plays to suggest that he has a very bright future in Green Bay.

If the defense can get significantly better, Rodgers and his well-groomed offense could guide the Packers to a division crown.

9. Michael Turner, RB, Atlanta Falcons

I’m almost tempted to put Matt Ryan here, but it’s clear that the Falcons’ biggest offensive strength is their rush offense. That is, until we see what the addition of Tony Gonzalez does for Ryan and the rest of the passing game.

Regardless, Turner jumped out on day one with a huge 220-yard game, as well as three touchdowns. He brought in consistent production the rest of the way, as he ran for 1,699 yards and 17 touchdowns.

He could have arguably been the MVP last season, but if he can repeat his 2008 success, he’d be a strong candidate.

10. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Carolina Panthers

After piecing together a wonderful season as the lead back, Williams is looking forward to 2009 as his “2008 wasn’t a fluke” proof.

Williams is a great back with excellent speed and quickness, and also possesses fantastic vision in the open field.

He does share carries with Jonathan Stewart, another impressive back, so getting back to 1,500 yards and 18 scores.

(Philip Rivers, Tony Romo, LaDainian Tomlinson, Chris Johnson, and Clinton Portis were also considered for this list.)

Realistic Expectations For The 2009 Green Bay Packers

Rodgers can't do it on his own.

Much like last season, Green Bay’s focus, whether you like it or not, might be on Brett Favre.

With Favre’s arrival in Minnesota seeming more likely by the day, Green Bay might have to game plan for their former star quarterback. So much for avoiding the topic.

Regardless, there are way too many other issues Green Bay needs to address and hammer out. The Packers need to focus on what is in their control, rather than dwell on hypotheticals.

So, without further “Brett Favre Saga-Haste”, let’s get back on track:

Addressing the 3-4

As we saw last season, Aaron Rodgers is not the problem in Green Bay. True, he failed to lead any dramatic comebacks as his former legendary teammate had, but it was more on his suspect defense than him.

In fact, Rodgers led comebacks in several games late in the fourth quarter, only to see his defense give up a score with two minutes left. That’s not the kind of defense a quarterback can depend on.

But to expect it to instantly get better during a transition to a 3-4 scheme—well, that’s insane.

If anything, we may see a bit of a drop-off.

Do they have the right players in the right spots? It’s close, but they have too many guys who either don’t fit perfectly, or they’re holdovers from other positions that they couldn’t win.

For example, Brandon Chillar, Desmond Bishop, Brady Poppinga, and rookie Clay Matthews will all be battling for the outside linebacker spot opposite of Aaron Kampman.

Is this good or bad news? Well, considering none of them are completely ideal for the position, do the math for yourself.

Chillar is best-suited for the middle (as is Bishop), while Poppinga and Matthews are perfect on the outside, but not necessarily for this type of scheme.

Both linebackers are quick and nasty hitters, but Poppinga has regressed in his block-shedding and didn’t register a single sack last season.

Matthews, on the other hand, has all the ability and pedigree a coach could ask for, but he is extremely raw and is still just a rookie.

Even if new defensive coordinator Dom Capers can figure the linebacker position out, he still has issues on the line.

Cullen Jenkins, if healthy, is a great defensive end for the new 3-4, but with Kampman switching to linebacker, there are no true contenders to fill in at the other end spot.

Johnny Jolly, Justin Harrell, and even Ryan Pickett have been mentioned as possible ends in this scheme, but none of them are sexy or leave you feeling good about this line.

Jolly is big and strong, but doesn’t have good speed or burst. The 3-4 scheme doesn’t demand elite pass-rushers, but it does ask for some pressure. Jolly might not be able to give them that.

As for Harrell, his progress report will forever be incomplete, as he’s yet to stay healthy and/or make any kind of an impact.

Pickett is still up in the air, as it hasn’t been determined if he’ll switch to end to allow rookie B.J. Raji take over in the middle or if Raji will have to wait.

Needless to say, there are a ton of questions, and we’ve only covered linebacker and the defensive line.

Factor in two cornerbacks who are in their mid-30s, and you’re one injured cornerback away from a crippled defense.

Can the Offense Carry This Team?

They couldn’t do it last season, but that was to be expected. Despite playing extremely well, you couldn’t reasonably expect Rodgers to lead the Packers to the playoffs in his first season.

However, with a year under his belt, we could see better execution, more big plays, and even some heroic late-game drives for Rodgers and this offense.

The success of this Packers team will undoubtedly hang on Rodgers, simply because it’s impossible to put too much stock in a defense we know almost nothing about.

The position battles are still fresh, all the players are still learning, and once we finally do know the starting lineup, there will be a time period needed for continuity to be established.

Rodgers threw 28 touchdowns and for more than 4,000 yards on a 6-10 team last season, showing that he was obviously not the problem.

However, this year, he has to be the solution, and I believe he can do it. Does that mean a division title, though? Probably not.

Unless this new defense can turn things around in one year, they’ll struggle enough that Rodgers will have to play at least as good as last year to keep their heads above water.

A 9-7 finish is very realistic and even probable, while a 10-6 finish is reachable if their defense even remotely shows up.