Memo to Josh McDaniels: Let Peyton Hillis Play Tight End

(Above: That’s the body language of a guy who just lost his job.)

Peyton Hillis, the country boy known best for blocking at Arkansas, rather than running over linebackers, had his chance.

And no, he didn’t blow it. At least, not by performing poorly or turning the ball over.

It was just plain, bad luck.

The fact is, Hillis was Mike Shanahan’s last resort when running backs started dropping like flies in 2008, and by some miracle, plotting the former fullback into the starting lineup turned out to be the best coaching move Shanahan made last season.

Hillis ultimately found his way on IR, but before he did, he was an absolute magician on the field, making spectacular catches, running through and around defenders, and always having a nose for the first down or goal-line.

It’s as simple as this: Hillis is a gamer. The kid can play.

He’s stocky and doesn’t have 4.4 speed, but he is ultra athletic and versatile, and actually runs in the low 4.5’s, making him an ideal prospect for a bruiser at running back.

However, after Shanahan was shown the door, so too were Hillis’ dreams of ever starting at tailback again for the Denver Broncos.

Rather than hold steady and give Hills a chance, after he ran for over 340 yards, five touchdowns, and averaged five yards per carry, new coach Josh McDaniels brought in several washed-up veterans to compete, and then drafted Georgia’s Knowshon Moreno.

This, all coming from the guy who drove Jay Cutler out of town.

A regular Ted Thompson.

But I’ve already made my gripes about all of that. I get it; Hillis isn’t a running back in Denvers’ mind, and probably not for many other teams, either.

That’s fine.

But what isn’t fine, is wasting this guy’s heart and talent as a blocking back, trying to create a poor man’s Mike Alstolt, or worse, not letting him touch the ball at all.

Game tape alone shows how versatile and athletic Hillis is, but a quick glance at the numbers also show his potential to be dominant in several different facets.

So, I say this: If he can’t tote the ball, then let him catch it, dance around, and score some touchdowns.

There’s just one problem, and his name is Tony Scheffler.

But I’ve got the perfect solution for McDaniels. Do away with Scheffler, just as he did with Cutler. After all, Scheffler wants more money and is already upset about losing his friend and quarterback.

So kill two birds with one stone. After all, Hillis has great hands, excellent body control, and is a better overall athlete than Scheffler.

Hillis has solid size for a tight end at 6’2”, and at 250 lbs, clearly has the mass to take on defensive ends and linebackers.

We already know he can block, help out in the running game, and after seeing him destroy Miami with seven catches for 116 yards and a touchdown last November, he clearly can catch in traffic, and can get yards after the catch.

The point is, if McDaniels doesn’t do something with this kid other than line him up as a blocker, he’s making his second dumbest move in only his first season.

Despite Hillis still being on the team, if he’s not used properly and allowed to display his abilities, it will be the second complete waste of talent by Denver management and coaching in just one year.

It’s perfect, really.

One look at Hillis, and you instantly think-Dallas Clark and Chris Cooley.

That, or one-man wrecking crew.

Green Bay Packers Position Battles: Jordy Nelson Vs. James Jones

(Above: Nelson has all the tools to be a stud in the West Coast offense.)

James Jones must have been beside himself last year when the Packers drafted Kansas State’s Jordy Nelson in the second round.

We all knew Ted Thompson took leaps of faith and always goes for the “best available talent”, but drafting a receiver when you already had three sold starters, well, that’s just crazy.

Evidently not.

After James Jones went down early last year with a knee injury, Nelson stepped in and performed admirably as a rookie.

But before we even get to what he did (Or Jones, for that matter) last season, let’s take a blind look at the two receivers.

Player A

Stands in at 6’1” and 218 pounds, and had experience playing multiple positions on the field in high school, including quarterback in his senior year.

Had his best college season in his senior year, catching 70 catches for 893 yards and 10 scores, while also dropping in 6 catches for 106 yards and two touchdowns in the New Mexico Bowl.

Player A had a solid NFL combine, as he tied the record there for the bench press with 22 reps.

He also performed well in speed and quickness drills, but wasn’t among the elite. Through other drills, it was obvious he had some of the better hands of his class.

Player B

Stands in at 6’3” and 217 pounds. He owns his high school’s state track record in class 3A 100m, despite being listed as having average speed.

He ran several times that ranged from 4.47-4.57 at the combine and college workouts, while displaying excellent hands and body control in other drills.

This player was a walk-on at his college, where he originally started his career as a safety.

Once his coach realized he belonged on offense, he hauled in 45 catches for 8 touchdowns as a sophomore. After being a on the pre-season Fred Biletnikoff Award
 watch list, this player suffered injuries and finished the season with only 39 catches and one touchdown.

Upon returning to full health, he took his conference by storm, catching 122 passes for 1,606 yards and 11 touchdowns.

He also displayed his versatility and athleticism by throwing for two touchdowns, as well as returning two more.

If you know anything about either player, you probably guessed already that player A is James Jones, and player B is Jordy Nelson.

Regardless of their college stats, it’s arguable that Nelson is the better fit for both the slot, as well as to be the future replacement for Donald Driver at the two spot.

Nelson played against stronger competition in college, and even was a YouTube sensation for destroying top corner prospect Aqib Talib on a deep play last year.

James Jones has great quickness and burst, but lacks the speed that Nelson has, and is quite a bit shorter. His hands are also solid, but don’t quite match up with how reliable Nelson’s are.

In Jones’ first season, he played well, but hit the rookie wall, and with his knee injury last year, was never able to get back to where he was in the first 10 games in 2007.

Nelson was only average in his first season, grabbing 33 catches for 366 yards and two touchdowns, but with Aaron Rodgers playing in his first season as a starter, Mike McCarthy didn’t ask as much of him in the passing game as he did of Brett Favre the year before.

Green Bay used the tight end and third and fourth receivers a lot less, trying to rely on the running game to get the young quarterback through his first season unscathed.

However, the running game was horrid and unreliable to start the season, and Nelson came to the rescue as a consistent third down option, as well as a target in the red-zone that opened things up for Greg Jennings and Donald Driver.

Rodgers showed a lot of grit and poise throughout the season, and despite not being able to finish games early on, was one of Green Bay’s strong points during the final five games of the season.

If Rodgers is able to continue his improvement and progress in defensive reads and looking downfield, both Nelson and Jones could easily play bigger roles in the offense this year.

James Jones will undoubtedly have a future in Green Bay, but with superior hands, athleticism, and size, Nelson should claim the slot for 2009, as well as look to secure the spot opposite of Greg Jennings for the long-term.

Then again, if the Packers don’t sign Jennings to a long contract and they cut Driver within the next year or two, we could be looking at Green Bay’s starting receivers for 2010, instead of a position battle.

The NFL’s 10 Worst Quarterbacks of 2008

(Left: Where does Marc Bulger place on this list?)

It’s summer time.

It’s getting hotter. The Brett Favre drama is heating up, NFL teams are gearing toward another season, and everyone is finally starting to forget about last season.

That is, until I decided to give one last look into the past, and fill everyone in on the 10 quarterbacks who let us all down.

While 31 starting quarterbacks let down their respective fan base, in one way or another by not winning the Super Bowl, these 10 guys, regardless of their talent, had less than spectacular 2008’s.

2009 Fantasy Football Rankings: Quarterbacks

(Above: Brees is worthy of a top-five pick.)

 

I already unleashed an overview on all the quarterback situations in the NFL, but now it’s time (sort of) to look at the top quarterbacks, strictly with a fantasy spin.

I still maintain that there’s enough depth in this year’s draft class that you can find a stud quarterback well into the middle rounds, but if you’re struggling to figure out different player’s stocks, look no further than my series of fantasy articles.

There are only two rules when drafting quarterbacks.

Don’t get involved in a preseason battle, and be weary of the old, wily veterans.

This means stay away from this year’s rookie passers, and think twice when you’re drafting Kurt Warner, Kerry Collins, or Brett Favre.

1. Drew Brees- New Orleans Saints

Pros: Threw for over 5,000 yards and 34 touchdowns last season, and retains the same system and explosive weapons.

Cons: Faces two playoff-type divisional rivals with good defenses, and doesn’t have a proven running game.

Outlook: Brees is the best quarterback in the league right now, and has the weapons to match any other team, score-for-score. The big key will be his supporting defense.

2. Tom Brady- New England Patriots

Pros: Has Randy Moss and Wes Welker, and still has that unpredictable Belichick system.

Cons: Major knee surgery and a year away from the game.

Outlook: Brady seems to have made a full recovery, and shows nothing to suspect he can’t get back to his 2007 form, when he threw 50 touchdowns and went undefeated in the regular season.

3. Peyton Manning- Indianapolis Colts

Pros: He’s Peyton Manning, and he still has the dependable Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark.

Cons: He lost Tony Dungy, Tom Moore, and Marvin Harrison.

Outlook: Can Manning surivive on his own, or will he regress as Brett Favre did when Mike Holmgren left town?

4. Kurt Warner- Arizona Cardinals

Pros: An excellent receiving corps that goes four deep, as well as a new commitment to the ground game.

Cons: That whole “ground game” thing, and the fact that he’s 37.

Outlook: Warner is still fresh after spending several seasons on team’s benches. Unless there’s an injury, he should continue adding to his 2008 numbers.

5. Tony Romo- Dallas Cowboys

Pros: With Terrell Owens in Buffalo, he’s growing more comfortable in the offense, as well as a leader.

Cons: Lost an explosive weapon, and didn’t get a true replacement.

Outlook: The idea here is that Dallas will get their rush attack going, and that will open things up for Romo. Jason Witten should continue to be a reliable target, while the development of Miles Austin is crucial.

6. Philip Rivers- San Diego Chargers

Pros: Has ascended to a Pro Bowl level of play, is a leader of the team, and has an arsenal of weapons at his disposal.

Cons: Outside of Vincent Jackson, no scary wide receivers. Needs more help from his defense.

Outlook: Rivers should stay close to his 2008 numbers with the improvement of Vincent Jackson, as well as a healthy LT picking up the slack.

7. Aaron Rodgers- Green Bay Packers

Pros: Rodgers still has an excellent receiving corps, with two young guys in Jordy Nelson and James Jones who will fight hard for time behind Greg Jennings and Donald Driver.

Cons: The offensive line isn’t elite, and neither is the paltry running game. Still, if you watched them last year, you know Rodgers’ fate truly lies in the hands of that new 3-4 defense.

Outlook: You can talk Rodgers down for his lack of fourth-quarter heroics all you want, but the kid can play. Expect him to be just as good as in 2008.

8. Donovan McNabb- Philadelphia Eagles

Pros: McNabb just inherited two new offensive weapons in rookies Jeremy Maclin and LeSean McCoy, as well as a healthy Kevin Curtis. This is good.

Cons: Brian Westbrook is out after knee surgery, and McNabb is getting older.

Outlook: With age against him, Andy Reid may be tempted to pull the chord if the Eagles have another slow start. Still, after the emotional run last season, it’s unlikely McNabb and company drop off that quickly.

9. Matt Ryan- Atlanta Falcons

Pros: He now has a star at every major offensive position, and his defense continues to get better. Talk about a supporting cast.

Cons: Will the running game continue to be so good that we won’t see what he’s truly capable of?

Outlook: Atlanta was a surprise last year, so if they will contend again, Ryan will have to win some games with his arm. He should easily top 3,500 yards and 20 scores in year two.

10. Jay Cutler- Chicago Bears

Pros: Cutler has better options than advertised, and has an extremely versatile running back at his disposal.

Cons: A new team and a new division can irk anyone—possibly even the confident Cutler. Can he really throw for 4,500 yards with Devin Hester and Earl Bennett running routes?

Outlook: I get the feeling Cutler made Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal look just as good as they made him look. Expect Devin Hester and Greg Olsen to have breakout years.

11. Ben Roethlisberger- Pittsburgh Steelers

Pros: He just won a Super Bowl, and still has a ton of talent surrounding him.

Cons: When he’s asked to throw a ton, it usually doesn’t end well. With only one “elite” fantasy season under his belt, the two-time champion remains a risky pick.

Outlook: Big Ben can throw the ball, but if the Steelers want to go after a second straight Lombardi trophy, it’ll be by running the ball.

12. Matt Schaub- Houston Texans

Pros: Schaub retains arguably the best receiver in football, as well as solid options in Owen Daniels and Kevin Walter. Steve Slaton is a fantastic weapon that could also get more involved in the passing game.

Cons: Dude needs to stay healthy.

Outlook: As long as Schaub can stay on the field, he has 4,000 yards and 25 touchdowns written all over him.

13. Carson Palmer- Cincinnati Bengals

Pros: Palmer still has some talent on his team, and he’s still got an elite arm. He could surprise some people.

Cons: There are a ton of questions surrounding Palmer and his offense.

Outlook: While Palmer continues to boom with confidence heading into 2009, the skeptics are saying another 4-11-1 season is very possible. Palmer remains a high risk/high reward pick.

14. Eli Manning- New York Giants

Pros: Manning has cut down on his mental errors and turnovers, and is becoming a more polished quarterback.

Cons: Manning lost Plaxico Burress, Amani Toomer, and Jeremy Shockey within one full year, and now he has to start all over again.

Outlook: While his options aren’t proven, the talent is there for Manning to have a big year. But is he ready to carry this team on his shoulders?

15. Matt Cassel- Kansas City Chiefs

Pros: He displayed the size, arm, poise, and confidence everyone wants in an NFL quarterback last year. Too bad Randy Moss and Wes Welker didn’t come in the trade.

Cons: Cassel sees a huge dropoff in talent, as well as protection. I would have liked his chances better if he still had Tony Gonzalez around.

Outlook: Much like last season, it’s likely Cassel will have to make adjustments, but could find a groove near the middle of the season.

16. Matt Hasselbeck- Seattle Seahawks

Pros: Hasselbeck still has the talent to get it done, and now has healthy, talented options at receiver. That connection he made with tight end John Carlson last year could evolve into something special.

Cons: Can his receivers stay healthy, or will it be another disaster in store for Seattle? More importantly, though, can he stay healthy?

Outlook: As long as Hasselbeck’s back is aligned, he should be able to run the offense well enough to keep his job. Getting back to his 2007 form is realistic.

17. Jake Delhomme- Carolina Panthers

Pros: He still has Steve Smith and Muhsin Muhammad. Oh, and the league’s best running duo.

Cons: Despite his sexy offensive weapons, he still doesn’t have a truly reliable second receiving option, and hasn’t had a tight end in years.

Outlook: If the ground games continues it’s hot success, Delhomme and the passing game may be an afterthought.

18. Trent Edwards- Buffalo Bills

Pros: Is landing Terrell Owens a pro or a con? Still, with two “elite” receivers and a good rush attack, Edwards should be able to make a considerable leap.

Cons: Edwards doesn’t have a cannon arm, but he’s very accurate and cerebral. Owens is considered both a pro and a con at this point.

Outlook: Even if Owens coming to the team doesn’t spell out a playoff appearance, it should at least boost Edwards’ numbers. Over 3,600 yards and 20 touchdowns is the least we can expect.

19. Kyle Orton- Denver Broncos

Pros: Orton was already coming into his own in Chicago, and now he walks into an offense with Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokley, and Tony Scheffler.

Cons: Just like his trade partner Cutler, it could take time for Orton to adjust, even with such gaudy weaponry.

Outlook: Orton will beat out Chris Simms, without question, and will go on to shock a lot of people. Just look at what he did with very little offensive weapons, and part of it on a bum ankle, no less.

20. David Garrard- Jacksonville Jaguars

Pros: While Matt Jones was certainly making strides, Garrard finally gets a legit number one receiver in Torry Holt.

Cons: However, outside of Holt, there’s nothing to get excited about if you’re Garrard. He’s probably crossing his fingers that Jack Del Rio brings Jones back.

Outlook: If the Jaguars go anywhere, it’ll be on the legs of Maurice Jones-Drew. Still, Garrard is not the problem in Jacksonville, and could repeat his 2007 performance.

21. Chad Pennington- Miami Dolphins

Pros: Pennington showed some true grit and determination last year, and another year in Miami’s system could prove to be very beneficial.

Cons: Pennington’s favorite target, Greg Camarillo, is still out with last year’s knee injury, while Tedd Ginn Jr. has yet to take hold of his supposed star status.

Outlook: The Dolphins drafted Pat White, and even before doing so, let it be known that they fully intend on having Chad Henne under center in 2010. Either Pennington will respond with another huge season, or it’s going to get ugly.

22. Joe Flacco- Baltimore Ravens

Pros: Flacco has a year under his belt, and still has all the tools necessary to be successful.

Cons: Flacco’s growth will have to come from his own development because he has sub-par talent around him.

Outlook: Flacco still doesn’t have any dependable elite weapons, so it’d be unrealistic to hope for him to make the leap to QB1 in his second season.

23. Jason Campbell- Washington Redskins

Pros: He’s still playing for Washington, and at least for now, he’s still the starting quarterback.

Cons: He tends to play stiff, doesn’t have great chemistry with his receivers, and doesn’t have the full confidence of his front office.

Outlook: Campbell has good talent around him. Now it’s all up to him to take that next step. Can he? Let’s just say I wouldn’t bet my fantasy season on it.

24. Marc Bulger- St. Louis Rams

Pros: Bulger has been blessed with a complete offensive overhaul, while he still has the dynamic Steven Jackson, as well as a several new, speedy receivers.

Cons: He’s Marc Bulger, and he cannot be trusted.

Outlook: I don’t know how anyone can draft this guy with a straight face. However, if the offensive line can keep him off his butt, he does have the arm and accuracy to make the right throws. Too many ifs, though.

25. Kerry Collins- Tennessee Titans

Pros: Backed by one of the league’s best running duo’s, Collins will try to improve on last year’s numbers with the addition of rookie receiver Kenny Britt, as well as ex-Steeler, Nate Washington.

Cons: Collins still has a good arm, but he’s never been a prolific passer. Besides, the Titans know how to win football games, and it’s not be throwing the ball.

Outlook: Collins is a stopgap if your quarterback is hurt later in the year, but not a guy you want to ride into the fire with.

26. Brett Favre- Free Agent

Pros: If he signs with Minnesota, Favre will inherit a familiar offense with familiar coaches, as well as the game’s most explosive running back.

Cons: Favre will be 40 shortly after the season starts, and even he is still uncertain about his health.

Outlook: Regardless of your opinion on Favre, he’s the best quarterback available, and he’s easily better than Tarvaris Jackson or Sage Rosenfels. With Adrian Peterson carrying the load, an average season of 3,500 yards and 20 scores could be expected.

 

Brett Favre Will Be Back, and It Will Be Awesome

ESPN’s Chirs Mortenson has reported sources telling him that Brett Favre has finally given into surgery, and that we’re probably only a month away from an end to the Favre-saga.

Then again, with Favre and drama, there is no true end.

Write that down, and see me next year. This site, this time, this day.

Regardless, I’m not here to coax you into believing Favre will be coming back, that the surgery went well, or that he’ll sign with the Vikings.

No coaxing needed. I’m flat-out telling you. It’s going to happen.

Just as we made assumptions over his release from the Jets, we’ve made assumptions over planes landing (or not landing) in Mississippi, text messages, and half-assed interviews with Favre’s agent, Bus Cook.

But that has begun to bore me.

I’m down with the feeble-minded guessing game that Favre has thrown at us. As if we’re cats, and he’s dangling a string of yarn, just begging, play-play with me.

Then again, I’m too raveled up in the excitement of seeing no.4 play his heart out against Green Bay twice in 2009, that I fear I will never climb back down from this rush.

Where are you now, Bush? My heads are truly high, so high, up in the clouds. I need to come back down.

Again, I digress.

This is about Favre. Not me, my head, clouds, or some vintage mid-’90s grunge band. Were they grunge? Ah.

The fact is, we live in a world that is built on paper. It’s not lived on it, but we spend almost 3/4’s of our lives contemplating, guessing, planning, and talking.

Just think fantasy football. Think pre-game debates, predictions, and breakdowns.

We spend more time practicing than playing, preaching than doing, and so on and so forth.

So why then, would we stop at Favre and his possible marriage to the Vikings?

Because with a quick glance, this does look like one joyous occasion, my friends. A match made in heaven, if you will, and even if you won’t.

You won’t see any Donald Driver’s or Greg Jennings’ on this purple-laden squad, but what you will see is a ton of unquestioned, untapped talent.

First, and probably most importantly, Favre’s new and improved arm/shoulder will be comfortably protected behind a Minnesota offensive line that makes the Jets line look, well, mediocre.

While the dependable Matt Birk is no longer around, the Vikings still provide a formidable blocking line.

Secondly, Favre won’t have to work his magic all by his lonesome.

No, he has the league’s best running back, Adrian Peterson, as well as a solid running mate in Chester Taylor.

He has an excellent long-ball threat in Bernard Berrian, an improving Sidney Rice, and an explosive rookie in Percy Harvin.

If all of that enticing paper-promotion isn’t getting you your prediction fix, then take a gander at the Vikings coaching staff.

Darrell Bevell, ex-Wisconsin Badger, ex-Packers quarterbacks coach, and long-time Favre friend is the offensive coordinator.

This means Favre knows his coaches (he knows Brad Childress, too), and he also knows his offense (they run his West Coast thang).

It’s a perfect match.

That is, if you’re not from Green Bay or New York.

But that’s where I, the writer, and you, the reader, tend to disagree.

Either you’re from one of the previously mentioned cities, hate Favre, or simply don’t like old guys hanging around “longer than they should.”

This means two things.

First, you don’t visit your grandpa at the nursing home very often

And second, you’re already pulling the rug out from under Favre’s feet.

I say this: Give the guy a chance.

He’s risking his Green Bay legacy, as well as his name overall, for one last shot at glory. He wants to play in his offense, against familiar competition, and on a platform that gives him a good chance at succeeding.

So sue him for not being in green and gold. While he is definitely partially to blame, you can’t say he didn’t try getting back in.

But to condemn him for “switching sides”, quite frankly, is just a joke.

This isn’t about Favre spiting someone or being a two-face. It’s about keeping the game great for as long as possible.

Because regardless of your feelings on Favre, the Packers, Jets, or Vikings, one thing is still for certain:

Once he’s truly gone, there will be something great missing from the game.

So in the wake of millions of Brett Favre articles world-wide, I suggest to you to just give the guy a break.

And yes, for the simple reason; because he’s Brett Favre.

Early 2009 Fantasy Football Preview: NFC Quarterbacks

(Left: Is he still Romocop?)

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:

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

Sage Rosenfels-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 the “Human Helicopter“.

The Vikings added Percy Harvin in this year’s draft, and still have a tremendous deep threat in Bernard Berrian.

Verdict: Wait and see

Proj: 2,784 yards, 17 TD, 17 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 Leftwitch-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

Early 2009 Fantasy Football Preview: AFC Quarterbacks

(Above: Brady still the man?)

It’s the first day of June, which means all of those premature NFL power rankings and fantasy football rankings are no longer, well, quite as premature.

While everyone (including myself) is discussing LeBron James and his handshake phobia, the Magic and the Lakers, or Bruno’s fall into Eminem’s lap, I’ve decided to take that free fall dive into the loving arms of fantasy football.

And yes, the fantasy realm loves me back.

However, let’s pace ourselves. After all, it is in fact the first month of summer (first day, no less), and we don’t want to generate pre-football heart attacks.

I mean, Brett Favre hasn’t even made up his mind yet, so why should the rest of us be getting antsy?

Regardless, here is a team-by-team look at all 32 starting quarterbacks, their weapons, offenses, and how they may destroy or enhance your team.

Still worried about Favre’s final decision, camp battles, or injuries? I’ll do my best to fill you in, allowing you an early look at which quarterbacks may be the best bets, which could be potential sleepers, and which ones you should stay away from.

 

Tom Brady—New England Patriots

Matt Cassel is in Kansas City, and Brady is back in camp, meaning two things.

You have nothing to worry about, and you have nothing to worry about.

Brady has looked sharp in limited practice, and still has the same awesome weapons he had in 2007 during his 50-touchdown season. This list isn’t a ranking, but if it were, I’d have Brady at the top.

Verdict: If you can get him in the second round, you’re already winning.

Proj: 4,090 yards, 35 TD, 13 INT

 

Mark Sanchez—New York Jets

Don’t buy the Kellen Clemens hype (not that there actually is any).

For better or worse, Sanchez will begin the new Joe Namath era.

It won’t be as sexy or productive as either of Matt Ryan or Joe Flacco’s seasons last year, but I wouldn’t be shocked if the Jets reached the playoffs.

Verdict: Not yet an option for FF

Proj: 2,400 yards, 16 TD, 17 INT

 

Trent Edwards—Buffalo Bills

I like the addition of Owens, but not the loss of Marshawn Lynch to start the season.

Edwards isn’t as bad as people think, and now he has a sound offense around him. He’s a borderline top-15 quarterback, and depending on how he looks in pre-season, could crack that barrier quite easily.

Verdict: Sleeper

Proj: 3,555 yards, 26 TD, 14 INT

 

Chad Pennington—Miami Dolphins

This is probably Pennington’s last hurrah with Miami, and something tells me the exciting juice that this offense had last season has all but dried up.

Pennington still doesn’t have enticing options, and he’s got two quarterbacks breathing down his neck.

He’ll be serviceable to start the season, but you won’t claim your league’s championship if he’s your starter.

Verdict: He’s a stop-gap

Proj: 3,100 yards, 17 TD, 14 INT

 

Ben Roethlisberger—Pittsburgh Steelers

If he endures a Super Bowl hang-over, we could see some bad numbers.

Because, as we’ve learned, the less Big Ben throws, the better he is.

He’s still a fantasy quarterback with solid weapons around him, so don’t be afraid to snatch him up.

Verdict: Serviceable

Proj: 3,470 yards, 23 TD, 18 INT

 

Brady Quinn—Cleveland Browns

Personally, I think Derek Anderson has the better arm and size, but Braylon Edwards favors Quinn, and the organization is more likely to run with the young, more familiar face.

Quinn is actually a good, young quarterback, and I’m not sure why Eric Mangini isn’t higher on him.

Regardless, aside from Braylon “Mr. Drop” Edwards, Quinn has no weapons.

Verdict: Things could get ugly

Proj: 2,899 yards, 20 TD, 20 INT

 

Carson Palmer—Cincinnati Bengals

He was awful last season, going 0-4 before bowing out with an arm injury.

However, his weapons are still potentially elite, and if he can return to form, could easily put up numbers that will have you kicking yourself for passing him up in the fourth round.

Verdict: Possibly ends the season as a top-5 passer

Proj: 3,884 yards, 27 TD, 17 INT

 

Joe Flacco—Baltimore Ravens

Flacco proved to be a capable game-manager, and has reportedly looked good over the offseason.

However, the Ravens are likely to base their offense around the run, and Flacco doesn’t have superstar options surrounding him.

Verdict: See Chad Pennington

Proj: 3,335 yards, 18 TD, 16 INT

 

Vince Young—Tennessee Titans

Call me crazy, but I don’t see Kerry Collins finishing the first half of the season as the starter.

He’s up there in age, which makes a regression or an injury extremely likely, and if things aren’t going well, he’ll be benched rather quickly.

Young may not have a cloudless head on his shoulders, but he still can make things happen with his feet.

Verdict: Young might surprise some people

Proj: 2,467 yards, 15 TD, 13 INT, 430 r yards, 4 TD

 

Peyton Manning—Indianapolis Colts

Manning loses Marvin Harrison, Tony Dungy, and two other important assistant coaches.

That doesn’t mean he’ll suddenly lose his touch, but there’s only so much Anthony Gonzales and Austin Collie can make up for.

Verdict: Draft him below Tom Brady, for sure this time

Proj: 4,300 yards, 33 TD, 19 INT

 

David Garrard—Jacksonville Jaguars

He lost Matt Jones, but gained Torry Holt.

Something tells me Garrard won’t really notice.

Jacksonville’s offense is all about grinding it out, but they were forced to put the ball in the air more last year because of an atrocious offensive line.

Verdict: A better line means Garrard is good again

Proj: 3,090 yards, 20 TD, 12 INT, 260 r yards, 3 TD

 

Matt Schaub—Houston Texans

Schaub has too many weapons to fail. The only problem is, he needs to stay on the field.

If he can play even 13 games, he’ll put up huge numbers, while leaving everyone guessing, yet again, what he’d do if he played a full season.

Still, with Andre Johnson, Kevin Walter, Steve Slaton, and Owen Daniels, the future looks good for Schaub.

Verdict: He can lead your team to a title

Proj: 3,800 yards, 25 TD, 16 INT

 

Philip Rivers—San Diego Chargers

If Rivers’ defense can back him up, unlike in 2008, he could easily approach last year’s numbers, and possibly even surpass them.

With a healthy Antonio Gates and LT, Rivers is more confident than ever.

Verdict: Draft him like he’s Tom Brady

Proj: 4,270 yards, 30 TD, 16 INT

 

Jeff Garcia—Oakland Raiders

I just don’t see the JaMarcus Russell experiment lasting more than three or four losses in 2009, and wouldn’t be shocked to see him benched in the pre-season.

As long as Garcia wins a few games, Al Davis will let him start. After all, he brought him in for a reason.

Verdict: Nobody in Oakland is worth your while

Proj: 2,300 yards, 15 TD, 9 INT

 

Matt Cassel—Kansas City Chiefs

Cassel is in a new place with a huge drop-off as far as offensive weapons. He still has good experience from last season, combined with his solid arm and good athleticism.

However, we’ll all be left wondering what could have been, had Tony Gonzalez not been traded to Atlanta.

Verdict: Stay away in year one

Proj: 3,700 yards, 22 TD, 23 INT

 

Kyle Orton—Denver Broncos

Orton was putting together a solid season in Chicago before hurting his ankle. Once he came back, he played admirably through injury, and didn’t have the best options out there.

In Denver, he’ll have a friendlier offensive line and system, as well as excellent receiving options.

Verdict: Orton could make the leap to elite

Proj: 3,600 yards, 24 TD, 16 INT

The NFC Edition will be made available, depending on the reads/comments for this article. Thanks for reading, and for those basketball enthusiasts, check out my NBA blog: www.robertsroundballreport.com

 

 

 

The Top 10 Early Candidates for 2009 NFL MVP

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.)

Green Bay Packers: A.J. Hawk Better Than Advertised

His team’s 6-10 record wouldn’t show it, but A.J. Hawk is pretty good.

Fifth pick overall in the 2006 draft, good? If this new 3-4 works out as it should, possibly.

Hawk has never had too much going for him ever since he was drafted by Green Bay three years ago.He walked onto a team that was yearning for an elite defensive presence, anointing Hawk as their “savior”.

However, because Nick Barnett had cemented himself in as the starting middle linebacker, Hawk had to play outside of his position and man the outside. While Hawk’s athleticism made him a threat on blitzes, his weak coverage skills were constantly exposed.

Still, Hawk continued to be a sideline-to-sideline defender, usually being seen on every play, regardless if he made the tackle or not. But after three years of only average play-making ability (7.5 sacks, 3 int, and 2 FF), Hawk is finally getting his shot in the middle.

The question is, in his fourth season, with talent around him, and a new scheme that should benefit him, what can we expect?

The answer isn’t greatness. Not yet.

But a more polished linebacker who makes more plays, is something we definitely can hope for. Hell, it should be demanded.

After Nick Barnett went down with a knee injury in week 10, Hawk took over for the rest of the season, and performed admirably. Hawk compiled 44 tackles in seven games as the starter, while trying his best to hold an injury-riddled defense above water.

By being the starter inside, Hawk was also exposed even more as only an average pass-defender. However, he displayed good instincts-those reminiscent of college, and showed the coaching staff that the middle of the field is where belonged, no matter the scheme.

With the new 3-4, Hawk is guaranteed a spot in the middle with Nick Barnett, where he schematically should be free to roam the field. Hawk is an imposing and aggressive defender, that, if given the time, could wreak havoc on opposing offenses.

But like almost every other Packer defender heading into 2009, there is no real certainty.

Packers: Transition to 3-4 Biggest Question for Defense

(X and O article for CBS Correspondent application)

After seeing their defense riddled by injuries and horrendous play, it was clear something needed a change. And considering Aaron Rodgers and the offense were incredibly efficient for most of the season, defense was clearly the problem.

In comes veteran coach Dom Capers, who introduces a whole new defensive life to an underachieving defense. His 3-4 depends on big, strong defensive ends that can free up gaps for blitzing linebackers.

While the ends and defensive tackle mainly take up space and allow their teammates to pursue the quarterback, they also need to be able to put pressure on the quarterback.

In other words, finding an “elite” 3-4 end is harder than it looks. So, too, is finding two outside linebackers who can do everything the system demands.

In fact, to make this system work, every player needs to re-learn the game, and adapt to new schematic changes (outside the basic title itself).

Regardless, it starts and stops with the defensive line, while Aaron Kampman’s switch to outside linebacker hinges as the potential “X-factor.”

If Kampman put on some weight, he actually could be a fine 3-4 lineman, but Green Bay wants to use his pass-rushing abilities, instead. The thinking is that with Kampman on the outside, he’ll have even more chances to get at the quarterback, and can also aid in the intermediate passing game with his long arms and big frame.

This is true, but it also leaves Green Bay with no “sure thing” on the other side of Cullen Jenkins.

With Kampman’s individual transition a clear issue, Green Bay still has to lock up the side opposite of him as well.

Clay Matthews will battle with Brandon Chillar and Brady Poppinga for that spot, but there is no clear-cut leader.

Matthews possesses the best blend of overall athleticism and ability, while Chillar actually fits best in the middle. Poppinga is an average blitzer who hasn’t produced a sack in over a year despite having the mentality of a pass-rush specialist.

Another area of concern is at defensive tackle. With Ryan Pickett being in a contract year, as well as not being ideal for the scheme, there’s talk of having him move to defensive end.  If B.J. Raji progresses and grasps the defense as he should, that could very well happen.

Raji is projected as both a better rusher from up the middle, as well as a better space-eater than Pickett.

Still, Pickett will either be forced to play well out of his position, or he’ll be sitting. Considering he’s too valuable to not have on the field, the guess is Raji will sit, or Pickett will in fact take on that other end spot across from Jenkins.

Ultimately, if this defense is going to succeed (especially in its first year) there will have to be extreme versatility and rotation. That means Kampman can’t stay strictly at outside linebacker, and guys like Pickett, Justin Harrell, and Johnny Jolly will have to spend time on the line at defensive tackle.

Too much of their 2009 success hangs on unproven players, or veteran players switching to a brand new scheme.

Add all of this with the fact that both of their starting corners are approaching 80, and you’ve got yourself a worrisome Packers fan base.

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