Posts Tagged ‘donovan mcnabb’

Donovan McNabb on His Way Out of Philly?

Truth be told, the writing is on the wall for Donovan Mcnabb.

Sure, he helped get the Philadelphia Eagles back to the playoffs, yet again, but yet again, the season ended without a Super Bowl, and inevitably, in disappointment.

While it’s impossible to put all (or even most) of the blame on McNabb, rumors have been swirling all around Philadelphia lately, and for McNabb, they’re not good.

A Philadelphia radio station has reported that young Eagles players have been seeking out advice to back-up Kevin Kolb, and not starter Donovan McNabb. This has apparently been going on for much of the regular season, and led up into the post-season.

But this isn’t the beginning. Read more…

NFL Fantasy Football Player Updates

Michael Vick to Play For Eagles on Sunday

Don’t get too excited, it won’t be as the quarterback.

Still, the coaching staff is counting on Vick to make plays, projecting him to be involved in somewhere between 10-15 plays.

You can probably even count on more than that. Kevin Kolb is expected to start as it stands, but Vick will likely be deployed in a number of packages.

The problem is, just how effective can he be in his first regular season game in more than two years?

Wes Welker Back at Practice

As inspiring as this is, it still means nothing.

While he did participate in Thursday’s practice, he was limited, opening the door to a possible “target share” with rookie Julian Edelman.

Bill Belichick isn’t foolish. If Welker isn’t 100 percent, he’ll just use him as a decoy and get some production out of Edelman. The rookie clearly has talent, and the Patriots would be doing themselves a disservice to sit him the rest of the way.

Monitor this situation all the way up until their game with the Atlanta Falcons.

Jerry Jones Gives Tony Romo Vote of Confidence

Well, I should sure hope so.

They got rid of Terrell Owens, labeling him as the one and only problem in Dallas. And now the owner raises doubt by saying he’s “backing” Romo after one bad game?

Don’t be like Jones and get too excited. Romo was facing the Giants tough front-four and the Cowboys barely lost the game.

Start Romo with confidence this week in a favorable match-up with the Carolina Panthers.

Saints Running Backs Sharing Reps in Practice

Add Tynell Hamilton to the mix in the Saints backfield.

Who? Well, regardless of not being very well known, Hamilton figures to get some grind with Mike Bell (knee) out this week, and Pierre Thomas being slowly brought back from his own knee injury.

Reggie Bush also factors into the muddled equation, making all three Saints running backs risky starts. And you thought it was difficult to predict their production before.

Chargers Center Nick Hardwick Out Until December

It just keeps getting worse for the San Diego running game.

This doesn’t hurt Daren Sproles’ value that much, as most of his production comes from the passing game and bouncing runs outside.

LaDainian Tomlinson, who is dealing with his own injury, could find it even more difficult to run in the middle when he returns, however.

Hardwick has ankle surgery, and if things continue to work against San Diego, he could end up going on IR.

Jamal Lewis Misses Wednesday’s Practice

Lewis is dealing with a bad hamstring, as well as a horrid performance against the Broncos, rushing for just 38 yards on 14 carries.

If he’s out this week, a suddenly-healthy James David could split carries with Jerome Harrison, making both Cleveland back-ups interesting plays.

Well, they would be, if they weren’t facing the Baltimore Ravens.

Marion Barber Practicing, Wants to Play Monday Night

While this isn’t exactly earth-shattering news, it’s worth noting.

Knock Felix Jones’ value down a bit with Barber practicing, although a hindered Barber ensures at least a few more touches for Jones and Barber’s other back-up, Tashard Choice.

The way the Carolina Panthers rush defense is going, all three backs could field solid numbers on Monday night.

2009 Philadelphia Eagles: Five Things to Watch For

Things were looking a little rocky for Andy Reid and Donovan McNabb in the middle of 2008, but an infamous “benching” helped turn the tide, and the Eagles finished a win away from the Super Bowl.Make that five NFC championship appearances in the Reid/McNabb era and, can we say, counting?

Michael Vick Signs With Eagles: Now What?

You can call him a dog killer, a highlight reel waiting to happen, or a running back in a quarterback’s body.

Frankly, you can call him anything you want.

Just make sure now that you preface his name with “Philadelphia Eagle’s quarterback”.

Of all the possible destinations, Vick lands in a cozy environment where he’s unlikely to be used, and will likely see dust collect on his hands and legs, while Donovan McNabb and co. make another run at an NFC Championship game appearance.

While the signing is both controversial and exciting, very little of it makes any sense, quite honestly, for either side.

The Eagles won’t be using Vick in any packages that would have him line up at receiver. No, he was too much of a risk for something is useless as that.

Besides, their receiver depth stretches all the way out to California, with stud burners like DeSean Jackson, Kevin Curtis, and Jeremy Maclin lining up for McNabb slants and bombs.

And then they even have Jason Avant to think about.

No, a receiver, Michael Vick is not.

Running back, then?

Again, it just doesn’t fit.

Sure, there will be a few plays where Vick steps in under center and is used in a Philly’ version of the Wildcat, but how much of that can we realistically expect to see without it disrupting the cohesiveness of the offense?

Not a whole lot.

And let’s not even get started on Donovan McNabb and his infant-like maturity when it comes to other quarterbacks taking the field.

The truth is, when it’s all said and done, Vick is, at the very worst, a sensational player on the Eagles shelf, ready and able to make an impact if he is needed.

Kevin Kolb, congratulations, (and I’m sorry) but you just lost your job.

Vick should, in due time, make his way to the “number two quarterback” clipboard section, master the offense, get acquainted with his future receiving weapons, and start to dream of all the possibilities that go along with being a Philadelphia Eagle.

Let’s face it. Kolb may have talent, but up until this point, has shown nothing spectacular, and no true signs of “coming around”.

He wasn’t exactly blowing people away with his performance against the Baltimore Ravens last year, either.

So, while there will be plenty of Kolb defenders/promoters out there, I beg of you (all of you) to take a good, hard look at Kolb during the pre-season, and tell me with an honest, blank face, that you’d prefer him over Vick.

But enough about Kolb. He’s just a speed-bump. A mere pebble in the way of Vick’s path back to fantasy and NFL greatness.

Ah, but the great Donovan McNabb. Now there is a true task.

Well, at least that’s what we’re led to believe.

After last season’s near-meltdown, McNabb is still very much in limbo as far as the Eagles’ front office is concerned, and adding Vick could be a quiet sign that McNabb won’t be around after 2009, and Vick could be a potential candidate to take over the reigns.

Vick isn’t even 30 yet, and while his speed and athleticism will start to fade around 34 or 35, he still has a little under a decade to prove himself worthy of his number one overall selection in 2003.

That is, of course, if he hadn’t already done so.

Regardless, Vick isn’t a publicity stunt, an offense/coach/team crying for help or attention, and he isn’t exactly a replacement.

Not yet, anyways.

No, Vick is an insurance policy. It’s hard to believe we’re saying and reading about Vick being a possible savior to a team, especially one with a possible future Hall of Famer still under center, but that could very well eventually be the case.

But we’re getting ahead of ourselves.

The fact is, all we know about Vick and the Eagles is that he’ll be wearing green in September.

What happens after that is anyone’s guess.

Top Five Clutch NFL Quarterbacks

We can safely assume Joe Montana is at the top of this list, if not the easy-call to be the best clutch performer to ever hit an NFL field.

But, as periods change and times goes on, people lose their sight on relevance, and it begins to get increasingly more difficult to truly compare people.

This rings especially true for quarterbacks, as they are often lifted up or held down by their offensive systems, good or bad defenses, and their supporting casts.

Stats don’t always tell the whole story either, but sometimes that’s really all we have to go by. That is, unless you were there for some of those heroic moments delivered by the Fran Tarkenton’s, Terry Bradshaw’s, John Elway’s, and even Brett Favre.

But let’s keep it relevant, at least, as much as possible.

With Favre still retired, here’s a look at the top five active quarterbacks who you’d want running your two-minute drill, throwing that last pass, and ultimately leading your team into every game.

Look for the usuals to make the list, but especially keep your eye out for a surprise or two.

Honorable Mentions: Matt Hasselbeck (Seattle Seahawks)

Hasselbeck has registered 57 wins as a starter in the regular season, and played a big hand in bringing the once lowly Seattle Seahawks to a competitive level.

In eight seasons as the starter, Hasselbeck as racked up over 23,000 passing yards, 145 touchdowns, and has led Seattle to four postseason trips, including a Super Bowl loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2005.

Other Notable Semi-Clutch Passers

Jake Delhomme (Carolina Panthers)

Philip Rivers (San Diego Chargers)

Drew Brees (New Orleans Saints)

Delhomme has been to a Super Bowl and the playoffs several times, Rivers hasn’t won much, but is a clutch performer, and Brees is a great performer with a trip to the NFC Championship and three career postseason trips under his belt.

5. Donovan McNabb (Philadelphia Eagles)

Despite nagging injuries and not always having elite receiving weapons (save for one good year of T.O.) McNabb has had to make a lot out of nothing, and much too often.

Sure, he’s almost always had Brian Westbrook, a stout offensive line, and a supportive defense, but he’s still won more games by himself than he has by leaning on his teammates.

McNabb has reached one Super Bowl and helped the Eagles appear in five NFC championship games in his career.

Really, when you think of McNabb, all you need to think of is the 4th and 26 play that helped beat Green Bay and put the Eagles in the NFC Championship back in 2003.

The Numbers (Career):

TD: 194

INT: 90

YDS: 29,320

Regular Season Wins: 82

Postseason Wins: 9

Best Season: 13-2 (Super Bowl Appearance)

4. Kurt Warner (Arizona Cardinals)

While he’s probably better known for a three-year run of two Super Bowl appearances (one win) and a sick display of offensive production in St. Louis, Warner has had enough moments in Arizona to keep his “clutch-ness” relevant.

Warner had a righteous time in St. Louis, losing only eight regular season games in his first three seasons, while throwing for over 36 touchdowns and over 4,000 yards in two of those three seasons.

With three Super Bowl appearances and his insane accuracy in tight moments, including a game-changing touchdown pass to Larry Fitzgerald in 2008’s Super Bowl loss, Warner deserves a place on this list.

The Numbers (Career):

TD: 182

INT: 114

YDS: 28,591

Regular Season Wins: 57

Postseason Wins: 8

Best Season: 13-3 (Super Bowl Champions)

3. Peyton Manning (Indianapolis Colts)

Manning has a rocket arm and lightning quick release, and is known as one of the most efficient, cerebral players in the league.

He’s a student of the game, as he practices and studies by himself and with his receivers constantly, even during the off-season, as to keep timing and chemistry at it’s highest possible level.

While he has the tools, smarts, and dedication to deserve to make this list, he also has the stats, experience, and wins.

Manning is slowly climbing up the ladder in almost every major passing category, and will either eclipse Brett Favre’s final numbers, or finish second behind him in most of the major passing categories.

After being regarded as “another Dan Marino”, an elite quarterback who can put up numbers but couldn’t win games, Manning finally separated himself from the Marino’s of the world, and won his first Super Bowl in 2006.

After starting his career in the postseason with a lackluster 0-3 record, Manning has since carved a niche for himself as one of the more prepared and clutch performers, leading Indianapolis to a solid 7-5 post-season record.

Throw in his 117-59 regular season record, as well as over 30 fourth quarter comeback victories, and you’ve got a guy who knows how to win.

The Numbers (Career):

TD: 333

INT: 165

YDS: 45,628

Regular Season Wins: 117

Postseason Wins: 7

Best Season: 12-4 (Super Bowl Champions)

2. Ben Roethlisberger (Pittsburgh Steelers)

Big Ben is a household name, especially after his heroics in 2008’s Super Bowl win. If he wasn’t famous before that night, he surely is now.

Chalk it up.

Two Super Bowl titles, and a slew of regular season wins. 51, to be exact.

In just five seasons, Roethlisberger has helped the Steelers eclipse 50 regular season wins, including going 13-0 as a rookie, and 22-3 in his first 25 starts.

Talk about a first impression.

Roethlisberger was so clutch and effective, that his team was able to be competitive right away in 2004, and then re-grouped to win his first Super Bowl in 2005.

With an 8-2 career record in the post-season, as well as his “money” late-game winning touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes in last year’s Super Bowl, Big Ben easily makes his way on this list.

The Numbers (Career):

TD: 101

INT: 69

YDS: 14,974

Regular Season Wins: 51

Postseason Wins: 8

Best Season: 12-4 (Super Bowl Champions)

1. Tom Brady (New England Patriots)

Brady is quite arguably the most effective clutch performer, as he was 3-3 in Super Bowl clutch moments until the New York Giants front line crushed his hopes of winning a fourth championship.

Still, there are few other quarterbacks, even in the NFL’s history, that you’d want guiding your team with under two minutes to go.

Brady has an impressive 87-24 regular season record, while guiding the Patriots to six seasons of 10-6 or better, including the NFL’s only undefeated season, as New England went 16-0, and 18-0 until they lost 2007’s Super Bowl.

Brady’s worst season as a starter came in 2002, where he and the Patriots could only finish 9-7. What’s most impressive, however, is that’s the worst record he has ever had as a starter.

With a 14-3 postseason record, several comeback wins, and three Lombardi Trophies to his credit, Brady, knee injury or not, is still the guy the majority of teams would want behind center when all the chips are on the line.

The Numbers (Career):

TD: 197

INT: 86

YDS: 26,446

Regular Season Wins: 87

Postseason Wins: 14

Best Season: 18-1 (Super Bowl Appearance)

6. The Wild Card: Eli Manning (New York Giants)

Personally, I’m not sold on Manning as an elite passer, but his numbers (not fantasy-wise) are fairly consistent, and he appears to be a good leader, and most importantly, knows how to win.

His career will likely forever be defined for his 2007 run and win against the 18-0 New England Patriots.

However, he doesn’t make the cut for the top five, due to the extraordinary help he got from his extremely aggressive defense that year.

Besides, when he had Plaxico Burress to throw to, too.

The other thing to note is that he and the Giants went 4-0 during that run, and Manning hadn’t won a playoff game before, and hasn’t since.

Still, Manning delivered clutch performance-after-clutch performance in 2007, and has since cemented himself as one of the better, and more complete young quarterbacks in the NFL.

The Numbers (Career):

TD: 98

INT: 74

YDS: 14,623

Regular Season Wins: 42

Postseason Wins: 4

Best Season: 10-6 (Super Bowl Champions)

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.)

NFL 2009 Predictions: Who’s Going to the Playoffs?

It’s still early in the off-season, but I’d like to put my stamp on my official preseason playoff predictions.

It seems everyone out there is doing all types of player rankings (as am I) or power rankings, which leaves this writer thinking, “why not me, too?”

The big questions are what teams won’t repeat as playoff contenders, as well as whether or not there will be any huge surprise teams to crack the rotation—such as the Arizona Cardinals from 2008.

It’s a waste of time to predict what team’s will have what records, as injuries, roster changes, and coaching philosophy hasn’t taken it’s full effect, and probably won’t until mid-season.

However, with the draft in the books, the first big wave of free agency done and over with, it’s time to take a breather from the Brett Favre-sage, among other things, and ponder what 12 teams will vie for a title next season.

Spoiler Alert: The Lions aren’t one of them.

AFC

New England Patriots

A healthy Brady means a wild, and crazy “bunch”. The offense was fine without him—but it just wasn’t the same.

With more depth added on defense through the draft, we will start to see somewhat of a rebuilding project, all while this team makes a fun for the Super Bowl.

Verdict: Division Winner

New York Jets

The only huge question mark is the quarterback position. Leave the defensive decisions to the mastermind, Rex Ryan.

If their running game can help out rookie Mark Sanchez (who will be the starter), then they have a real chance to get close to 10-6, and nab a wild-card spot.

Verdict: Wild Card

Buffalo Bills

The new addition of Terrell Owens will do more than the experts think, but the playoffs? That’s a bit of a reach.

Owens’ presence will allow Trent Edwards and Lee Evans to develop faster, and the Bills offense should grow, as a whole. There are too many question marks with their pass rush and overall depth on defense, though.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins weren’t built to go 11-5 last year, but an easy schedule and a scorned quarterback led them to a remarkable season.

They’ll probably regress to somewhere between 6-10 and 9-7, but not without steady improvement from their receivers. 2010 will be their season to strike.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Pittsburgh Steelers

Ben Roethlisberger and co. are too tough and determined to have a Super Bowl-hangover.

With Willie Parker healthy, they’ll have a solid ground game to rely on, once again, which will open things up for rising star, Santonio Holmes.

Verdict: Division Winner

Baltimore Ravens

We should see steady improvement from Joe Flacco in his second season, but then again, that’s what everyone said about Rick Mirer.

I believe in the Flacco buzz, but he doesn’t have elite offensive weapons, and his defense is aging.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals are more prepared to win now, than people give them credit for.

They still have solid receivers and a Pro Bowl-type quarterback in Carson Palmer. Clearly their main issues are on defense, but if Cedric Benson can run like he did in the final three games last season, they could push for a wild card.

Verdict: Stuck in Mediocrity

Cleveland Browns

It’s never good when you aren’t even sure who your starting quarterback is. To make matters worse, they have a receiver who drops passes, no tight end, and no true weapons to rely on.

It’ll be a rough first year for Eric Mangini.

Verdict: Bottom of the Barrel

Indianapolis Colts

Eventually this team has to drop-off, right?

With Tony Dungy, Tom Moore, and Marvin Harrison all gone, it’s the perfect time for the Colts to fall away from being contenders.

But they have Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, and Dallas Clark.

Just those three players are good enough for them to win the division.

Verdict: Division Winner

Houston Texans

If Matt Schaub can stay healthy (that’s a big “if”), then there could be good things coming Houston’s way.

They have elite options at every offensive position, and are backed by a consistently improving defense.

Verdict: Wild Card (Finally)

Tennessee Titans

When you lose Albert Haynesworth, there’s bound to be a drop-off.

Teams will be able to key in on their running game, as Kerry Collins isn’t the most difficult quarterback to game-plan against.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Jacksonville Jaguars

Letting go of Fred Taylor was a bolder move than you’d think. Maurice Jones-Drew can handle the starting gig-that’s not the problem.

But after seeing their offensive line depth (or lack thereof) exposed, they’re now risking the same thing happening to their running back corps.

And as for those receivers; do you really think Torry Holt can rescue them in one season?

Verdict: Cellar

San Diego Chargers

A healthy group of offensive weapons, as well as a revitalized Shawne Merriman, could realistically place this team right back where they left off in 2007.

They’re still one of the most talented teams in the league, so the rest falls on Norv Turner.

Verdict: Division Winner

Denver Broncos

I, unlike many others, actually believe in Kyle Orton. He put up solid numbers last season, despite being hurt and not having many elite weapons.

Now he’s walking in with a good running scheme, as well as Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, and Tony Scheffler as top targets.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Oakland Raiders

I’m not buying that JaMarcus Russell can progress enough to stave off the veteran, Jeff Garcia.

Garcia is old, but he brings accuracy, leadership, and poise. The Raiders will win at least five games if Garcia is starting.

Darren McFadden stepping into the starting role can only help their chances.

Verdict: Not Even Close

Kansas City Chiefs

I’m on the Matt Cassel bandwagon, but not necessarily for 2009. He has new weapons, a new environment, and it will take time to adjust.

Larry Johnson remains a huge question mark, as does this defense.

Can they improve on their league-low 10 sacks? God, I hope so.

Verdict: Dead Last

NFC

Philadelphia Eagles

As long as cancer-stricken defensive coordinator Jim Johnson hangs around, their defense will be right near the top again.

New weapons Jeremy Maclin and LeSean McCoy won’t be starting, but will eventually find ways to make an impact.

Verdict: Division Winner

Dallas Cowboys

If Roy Williams can step-up, we shouldn’t see any drop-off in Tony Romo’s production.

And if Dallas does what everyone knows it needs to in order to win (run the ball), then they have a shot at the division, too.

Verdict: Wild Card

New York Giants

Eli Manning doesn’t have a dependable target-yet. This could make him grow, or make him squirm.

Losing Derrick Ward could hurt a lot if Brandon Jacobs goes down at all again.

Overall, they still have a very good team. However, the NFC East is brutal, and their tough schedule on the outside of it will wear them out.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Washington Redskins

They showed glimpses of true talent and a desire to win, but they’re not there yet.

Unfortunately, that will mean Jim Zorn will be gone, and the franchise will look to move on from Jason Campbell.

Verdict: Bottom of the Barrel

Green Bay Packers

Even if Brett Favre comes back, the Packers still have a very good shot at taking over this division.

It’s going to be a hard fight throughout the season, but their defense should improve enough to help them get to 10-6, which will be good enough to win the North.

Verdict: Division Winner

Chicago Bears

Jay Cutler will have to adjust, just like Matt Cassel, and it may be even more difficult, considering his limited receiving options.

That chemistry and development will take time. Their defense will keep them above .500, but there are too many other teams with better core groups.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Minnesota Vikings

I don’t care if they won their division last year. The Packers won it in 2007, but I didn’t see them winning it in 2008, did you?

Quarterback, quarterback, quarterback.

The Vikings are solid all across the board, but there’s little-to-no faith in either one of their current signal callers. If Favre jumps aboard, they have a shot at the division.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Detroit Lions

Matthew Stafford will play eventually, but the odds are Culpepper plays the first few games. Once the Lions are 0-5 again, management will have nothing to lose, and they’ll plop the rookie in.

There needs to be a lot of improvement throughout the entire team just to win 2-3 games next season.

Verdict: Cellar

New Orleans Saints

There is a common theme in the NFC South: whatever team finishes last this year, finishes first the next. So far, so food.

The Saints definitely have the offense to match-up with any team, but what about their defense? Common upgrades at each position should have them competing at a high level on both sides of the ball.

Verdict: Division Winner

Atlanta Falcons

While many feel the Falcons will fall in Matt Ryan’s second try, I think they’ll only get better.

With the addition of future Hall of Famer tight end, Tony Gonzalez, as well as improvement from Roddy White and Michael Jenkins, this offense can only get better.

Verdict: Wild Card

Carolina Panthers

It’s back to mediocrity after we saw a taste of what the Panthers can do. The only problem is, their defense is only average, and they have an extremely tough schedule.

Is Julius Pepper staying or going? Consider he’s the glue holding that average defense together, that may be the make-or-break question.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

They don’t have a quarterback, and they’re starting over, almost completely.

I like their offense with Derrick Ward, Antonio Bryant, and Kellen Winslow, but that won’t be enough.

Telling Jeff Garcia to take a hike was a mistake.

Verdict: Cellar

Arizona Cardinals

Arizona won’t have any lingering effects from their Super Bowl loss. They know better than that.

They’re aware that they were an average team going into the post-season, so they are already concentrating on simply getting better.

They retained Warner, got rid of Edgerrin James, and now all that’s left is to resolve the Anquan Boldin situation. If they can do that, they have this division. They probably have it, anyways.

Verdict: Division Winner

Seattle Seahawks

This time around, no more tears, Seattle.

(Name the boy-band!)

Matt Hasselbeck should return to form, or at least close to it, and they should actually have some healthy/productive receivers this season.

There are still question marks on their offensive line and with their running game. They can get back to 7-9 or 8-8, but probably won’t compete for the division.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

San Francisco 49ers

Mike Singletary has the right idea. Defense wins championships. Hell, he should know.

However, he’s actually building a solid offense. Now, about that quarterback thing…

Verdict: Stuck in Mediocrity

St. Louis Rams

No, they won’t be this year’s Miami Dolphins.

Marc Bulger may have Chad Pennington’s No. 10, but he just isn’t what he used to be.

For me, it’s as simple as that. If Bulger starts, the Rams lose.

Summary

The AFC representatives for the NFL Playoffs will be:

Patriots

Jets

Steelers

Colts

Texans

Chargers

As for the NFC…

Eagles

Cowboys

Packers

Saints

Falcons

Cardinals

And the Super Bowl?

The Eagles will push past Green Bay and Arizona in the playoffs to meet up with the Patriots, where Randy Moss will finally get that elusive ring.

Can McNabb Lead Another Late Run?