 QB Anderson To Be Placed On IR -- Mon Dec 1 3:30 pm --
Torn Left Medial Collateral Ligament |
Quarterback Derek Anderson will miss the rest of the season with a torn left medial collateral ligament, the Browns announced today.
Anderson will not need surgery but will be in a brace for about 4-6 weeks. He will be placed on injured reserve soon.
Ken Dorsey will replace Anderson in the starting lineup and Josh Cribbs will serve as the second quarterback.
The Browns might also bring in a veteran quarterback, according to coach Romeo Crennel.
Dorsey, who's gone 2-8 as a starter, will face the 11-1 Titans on Sunday.
(Plain Dealer)
FF Today's Take: From a fantasy perspective consider the QB position in Cleveland a dead option. Ken Dorsey is 2-8 as a starter and faces the Titans defense this week.
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Burress To Turn Himself In Monday -- Mon Dec 1 3:00 am --
Planning To Plead Not Guilty To Criminal Possession Of A Weapon |
Plaxico Burress' suspension and fines earlier this season don't seem all that serious now.
Not after he was hospitalized after accidentally shooting himself in the leg and was to turn himself in Monday morning, planning to plead not guilty to criminal possession of a weapon. Burress shot himself at a Manhattan nightclub Friday night and was released from a hospital early Saturday, the Giants said.
"As far as we know, he's going to be OK," general manager Jerry Reese said Sunday before the Super Bowl champions' 23-7 victory at the Washington Redskins.
Before the shooting, Burress already had been ruled out of the game because of a leg injury. Coughlin wouldn't address Burress' future with the Giants, saying only, "Questions of that nature will be discussed going forward, I'm sure."
(AP)
FF Today's Take: Burress has been the only negative during a positive season for the Giants. His suspensions, fines, and off-field behavior is wearing thin with players and management alike. Domenik Hixon will continue to start as long as Burress remains sidelined and could easily become a permanent fixture in New York's starting lineup in 2009.
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QB Edwards Misses 2nd Half -- Mon Dec 1 1:30 am --
Strained Groin |
The pain in Trent Edwards' sore groin grew worse with each step he took, forcing the Bills starter to the sideline midway through a 10-3 loss to San Francisco on Sunday that all but dashed what's left of Buffalo's playoff hopes. And it's unclear whether Edwards will be healthy in time to play next weekend when Buffalo hosts Miami at Toronto.
"As of right now, I have no idea," Edwards said. "We're going to have to re-evaluate it again tomorrow."
Edwards characterized the injury as either a pull or a strain. Edwards said his groin began bothering him at the start of the game and that the pain became more severe every time he was knocked down.
(AP)
FF Today's Take: Everything tends to hurt more when you get knocked down, but your groin? Edwards went 10-of-21 for 112 yards before being replaced by J.P. Losman in the second half. The Bills have lost five out their last six.
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RB Jackson Back In Starting Lineup? -- Fri Nov 28 11:00 pm --
Strained Thigh Muscle |
Jim Haslett wasn’t tipping his hand, even after running back Steven Jackson finished three straight days of practice by taking the majority of the snaps with the first team Friday. “I thought he did OK. I’ll have to see how he feels,” Haslett said. “I thought he got better as the week went on. I’ll talk to him and we’ll make a decision by the game.”
Jackson, who has been hampered by a strained thigh muscle, was listed as “questionable” on the final injury report of the week, which under NFL guidelines means his chances of playing Sunday against the Dolphins are 50-50. But here’s the real poop:
Unless Jackson suffers an unexpected setback between now and the noon kickoff at the Dome, he’ll be uniform — and probably in the starting lineup — for just the second time in six weeks.
(St. Louis Post-Dispatch)
FF Today's Take: It sounds like Jackson has at least a good chance of seeing action this week and may get the start. Bump Antonio Pittman down your Week 13 cheatsheet and don't expect either back to post big numbers against Miami.
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Burress Out With Hamstring Injury -- Fri Nov 28 8:00 pm --
Hixon Expected To Start |
After Friday's practice, coach Tom Coughlin told reporters he couldn't remember the specifics of the injury report. But Burress was listed as out for the game when the team released the report a couple hours later.
"He is progressing, no doubt," Coughlin said earlier. "He is getting better, he is."
Evidently, though, he hasn't progressed well enough to play. After injuring his hamstring last week in practice, Burress was a game-time decision for last Sunday's game in Arizona. He started, but left the game after reaggravating the leg on the team's first offensive series.
(Star-Ledger)
FF Today's Take: Domenik Hixon is expected to start in Burress' place. Hixon was limited at practice this week with an ankle injury, but has practiced fully since Wednesday and is listed as probable on the Injury Report.
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Bush Expected To Play -- Fri Nov 28 4:00 pm --
Practiced On A Limited Basis Friday |
Saints tailback Reggie Bush is officially listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Tampa Bay after he practiced on a limited basis Friday. But both he and Coach Sean Payton said they fully expect him to play against the Buccaneers.
Bush practiced every day this week on a limited basis -- his heaviest workload since he tore the meniscus in his left knee on Oct. 19 at Carolina. He didn't suffer any setbacks and said he felt good all week.
(Times-Picayune)
FF Today's Take: Bush has toyed with the idea of playing the last two weeks but inevitably ended up on the Inactive List. Given his matchup against the Bucs defense isn't all that inviting, it’s best to play it safe and leave him on your bench if you have viable alternatives.
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Barber Leaves With Toe Injury -- Thu Nov 27 8:00 pm --
Sprained/Dislocated Right Pinkie Toe |
Running back Marion Barber sprained his right pinkie toe late in the first half. He returned to the game in the third quarter, but quickly had to leave again. It's a huge worry for a team that already lost rookie running back Felix Jones for the season with a toe injury.
Fourth-round pick Tashard Choice filled in nicely with 57 yards on 11 carries. If Barber can return from the toe injury, Choice could become a nice complementary back. But an extended absence would put even more pressure on Tony Romo and the offense. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: Other reports claim that Barber actually dislocated the toe. In any case it remains to be seen whether or not he will be able to play against Pittsburgh in Week 14. Tashard Choice would likely start if Barber can't play.
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Parker Could Miss More Time -- Wed Nov 26 4:25 pm --
As Injuries Continue To Plague The Steelers |
The Pittsburgh Steelers, unable to get their running game going recently without Willie Parker, may not have Parker or four other starters for Sunday's key AFC game at New England. Defensive end Brett Keisel could miss three games with a sprained medial collateral ligament. Coach Mike Tomlin also doesn't know if cornerback Deshea Townsend (hamstring, doubtful), cornerback Bryant McFadden (broken forearm, questionable) and left tackle Marvel Smith (back, status uncertain) can play. Smith has missed six games due to persistent back pain and Tomlin said Tuesday he remains "status quo." Wide receiver Santonio Holmes sat out part of the Bengals game with a concussion, but is expected to play. Parker is questionable due to left knee inflammation. He missed four games earlier because of a sprained knee and another with a shoulder injury, and the Steelers were 3-2 without him. Parker was held to 37 yards on 14 carries before his knee began bothering him again during a 27-10 victory over Cincinnati on Thursday. (NFL.com)
FF Today's Take: Injuries are accumulating at the worst possible time for the Steelers, who face teams in the next four weeks with a combined record of 31-13 (Patriots, Cowboys, Ravens, and Titans).
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QB Quinn Out For The Season -- Tue Nov 25 11:00 pm --
May Have Surgery To Repair Finger |
Playing Brady Quinn with a fracture on the tip of his right index finger apparently was the wrong thing to do.
Quinn will not play again this season, according to a source familiar with the injury, and may have surgery to repair the tendon on the last joint of the finger.
Quinn originally broke the tip of the finger hitting it on a helmet of a Buffalo player in the game against the Bills on Nov. 17. X-rays taken two days later revealed a small fracture. Multiple doctors had presented Quinn with three options upon examining the X-rays. He could play through pain, immobilize it in a split for four to six weeks, or have surgery. Quinn now is down to the latter two options and will decide Wednesday whether to have surgery after conferring with the team's medical staff.
(Plain Dealer)
FF Today's Take: Quinn's injury will return Derek Anderson to the starting lineup for Cleveland's remaining five games where he will be a marginal option for your fantasy team.
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Redskins Cut Shaun Alexander -- Tue Nov 25 3:00 pm --
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The Washington Redskins have released running back Shaun Alexander after four games and 11 carries with the team. The 31-year-old former league MVP had provided insurance while injuries prevented Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts from practicing.
Portis and Betts continue to battle through injuries, but the Redskins apparently felt they needed Alexander's roster spot to help with depth on the defensive line.
(ESPN)
FF Today's Take: The Redskins are apparently comfortable enough with the health of Portis and Betts to let Alexander go. He didn't play in Sunday's 20-17 win over the Seahawks.
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Quinn Still The Starter In Cleveland -- Mon Nov 24 6:59 pm --
After Being Pulled In Sunday's Loss |
Brady Quinn’s benching during Sunday’s 16-6 loss to the Texans didn’t signal a return to the starting lineup of Derek Anderson, Browns coach Romeo Crennel acknowledged in his press conference on Monday. “We were just trying to get a spark,” Crennel said. “We like the things (Quinn) has shown us since he became the starter. “I don’t anticipate making a change at the quarterback position.” Quinn was playing with a broken index finger on his throwing hand, and while that factored into the benching of the second-year quarterback, Crennel said the injury was not the lone reason for the switch to Anderson with 10 second left in the third quarter. “It was a combination of his decisions that could have been a little better and the injury to his finger,” Crennel said after the game. “I decided to play the other guy for a little bit to see if that could give us a spark, and that didn’t work either.” Quinn went 8-for-18 with 94 yards — with 42 of those yards coming on one pass play to Braylon Edwards — and two interceptions. Anderson didn’t fare any better, completing just five of 14 passes for 51 yards and one interception. (NFL.com)
FF Today's Take: Quinn had a bit of a setback Sunday, throwing the first 2 interceptions of his NFL career. He faces a Colts' team week 13 that ranks 12th in the league in pass defense.
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Bengals' Palmer Considering Surgery -- Mon Nov 24 6:49 pm --
On His Elbow To Reattach Ligaments |
Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer will throw in two weeks and then decide whether his passing elbow needs reconstructive surgery. Palmer acknowledged on Monday that the ligament and tendon in his right elbow are partially torn from the bone. He has missed the last six games, doing rehabilitation in hopes the elbow will heal without surgery. Palmer hasn't given up on the notion of playing this season. If the elbow bothers him when he resumes throwing on Dec. 7, he will have to decide whether to have reconstructive surgery that could affect him into next season. Palmer said on Monday that the elbow is feeling better and getting stronger with his rehabilitation work. (NFL.com)
FF Today's Take: With the season having been a write-ff long ago, the Bengals won't hurry Palmer back into the lineup and risk furthering the injury. Ryan Fitzpatrick should remain the starter for the rest of the year.
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McNabb Will Start Thursday -- Mon Nov 24 1:30 pm --
After Being Benched On Sunday |
Donovan McNabb will start when the Philadelphia Eagles host the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday night. The five-time Pro Bowl quarterback was benched for the first time in his career at halftime of Philadelphia's 36-7 loss at Baltimore on Sunday. Second-year pro Kevin Kolb played poorly against the Ravens, and Eagles coach Andy Reid said Monday he's going back to McNabb.
"Sometimes you have to step back to step forward in a positive way and Donovan will do that," Reid said. "This has nothing to do with Kolb's performance or Donovan's performance."
(AP)
FF Today's Take: Updating an earlier story. McNabb will start against Arizona Thursday night. McNabb is currently the 11th ranked fantasy quarterback, averaging 19.1 FPts/game.
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Camarillo Out For The Season -- Mon Nov 24 1:20 pm --
Knee Injury |
Dolphins leading receiver Greg Camarillo suffered a season-ending left knee injury during Sunday's loss to the Patriots.
"He's done," coach Tony Sparano said.
Davone Bess, Brandon London and Ernest Wilford will compete to replace Camarillo. Expect Bess, an undrafted rookie free agent, and London to compete for the starting spot opposite Ted Ginn Jr. London, a second-year receiver acquired off waivers in September, has only caught one pass this season, but he plays ahead of Wilford, the Dolphins' expensive offseason free-agent addition.
(Sun-Sentinel)
FF Today's Take: This is a big blow for the Dolphins. Camarillo leads the team with 55 catches and 613 yards. Bess started the game Sunday as a third receiver and is the likely candidate to replace Camarillo in the starting lineup.
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McNabb Benched, Status Uncertain -- Sun Nov 23 11:00 pm --
No Starter Named For Week 13 |
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb was benched after the first half of Sunday's game against the Baltimore Ravens following a miserable performance in which he committed three turnovers and failing to produce any points.
McNabb was 8-for-18 for 59 yards and two interceptions and a fumble -- a miserable 13.2 quarterback rating. With the Eagles down 10-7 at halftime Sunday, Philadelphia coach Andy Reid turned to Kevin Kolb, a second-round pick who didn't throw a pass as a rookie last year and had attempted nine throws this season.
(AP)
FF Today's Take: In his post-game news conference, Andy Reid hesitated in naming a starter for Philadelphia's Week 13 game against Arizona. Don't be surprised if Kevin Kolb gets significant action down the stretch if the Eagles continue their slide.
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Jacobs Inactive, Burress Leaves Early -- Sun Nov 23 10:00 pm --
Burress Exits After First Series |
Brandon Jacobs was listed as probable. But by Saturday night, after a long flight here, his swollen knee made him believe he probably wasn't going to play. Jacobs, who left last week's game against the Ravens with a knee injury, practiced in a limited capacity on Thursday and worked fully on Friday. It was expected he was going to play in Sunday's victory over the Cardinals and there were even reports early in the day he would play. Those reports proved to be premature because Jacobs was declared inactive 90 minutes before kickoff. "We were very optimistic and kind of led to believe he was going to make it. He didn't feel very well (on Saturday) night, he didn't feel very well (Sunday) morning, so the decision was made." WR Plaxico Burress was sidelined after the first series and was replaced by Domenik Hixon.
(The Star-Ledger)
FF Today's Take: I'm not buying this. I think the Giants planned all along for Jacobs to sit out this week and rest his knee. Having Derrick Ward, Ahamd Bradshaw, and one of the best offensive lines in football gives them this luxury. The Cardinals have sent an informal complaint to the league about the Giants listing Jacobs as probable.
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White Back At Practice -- Fri Nov 21 9:00 pm --
Bruised Back |
Wide receiver Roddy White returned to practice on Friday after missing two practices with a bruised back. White is the Falcons’ leading receiver with 58 catches for 903 yards and six touchdowns.
(Atlanta Journal Constitution)
FF Today's Take: White's been a solid fantasy receiver in 2008 and that should continue this week. He was held out of practice with a back bruise this week as a pre-caution.
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Portis Limited On Friday -- Fri Nov 21 8:00 pm --
Game-Time Decision, Again |
Redskins Coach Jim Zorn said the decision on whether star running back Clinton Portis - who is battling a sprained left knee - will play Sunday will be left to the hours leading up to the game for the second straight week.
"He really is not full-speed," Zorn said. "Would love to see him go, but that'll be game-time." Portis, the league's second-leading rusher, participated in practice today - albeit minimally - for the first time this week.
"I'm feeling the same as I been feeling," Portis said. "I'm surviving."
(Washington Post)
FF Today's Take: Portis was in a similiar situation last week and ended up starting the game. Expect him to play but Ladell Betts should see action as well.
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Burress Gametime Decision -- Fri Nov 21 5:00 pm --
Missed Practice Thursday And Friday |
The last time the Giants traveled to Arizona, for Super Bowl XLII, Burress slipped in the shower a few days before the game and sprained his knee. This week, he hurt his right hamstring in practice and is questionable for Sunday's game.
Burress didn't practice Friday or Thursday, and whether or not he can play against the Cardinals will likely be a game-time decision, coach Tom Coughlin said.
(Star-Ledger)
FF Today's Take: Burress has made it a habit of playing in these type of situations but check his status on Sunday before you lock your Weeek 12 lineup.
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Bengals Deactive Chad Johnson -- Thu Nov 20 11:00 am --
No Comment From The Bengals |
The Cincinnati Bengals have deactivated receiver Chad Ocho Cinco for Thursday night's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers for violation of a team rule.
The Bengals would not elaborate on why Ocho Cinco was deactivated, and said there would be no comment until after the game. However, ESPN senior NFL analyst Chris Mortensen reports that according to a team source, Ocho Cinco was 45 minutes late to a meeting Wednesday night. He and coach Marvin Lewis then got into a verbal disagreement. Ocho Cinco was sent home.
(ESPN)
FF Today's Take: Get Johnson out of your lineup immediately. Chris Henry (RB, WR) will likely get the start in Johnson's place.
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TE Winslow Sprains Shoulder -- Wed Nov 19 6:29 pm --
Monday Night Against The Bills |
Cleveland Browns tight end Kellen Winslow sprained his right shoulder in Monday night's win over the Buffalo Bills, an injury unlikely to keep him out for an extended period. Winslow, who played through a painful injury to his left shoulder last season, was injured while catching a 16-yard pass that set up kicker Phil Dawson's 56-yard field goal in a 29-27 win. After making the reception, Winslow was wrapped up by Bills linebacker Paul Posluszny near the sideline and fell hard on his shoulder.
An MRI exam taken Tuesday revealed no structural damage in Winslow's shoulder. Coach Romeo Crennel said Winslow would not practice Wednesday and that the five-year veteran's status for Sunday's game against the Texans would depend on getting strength and range of motion in his shoulder. (NFL.com)
FF Today's Take: Winslow has been bitten pretty hard by the injury bug this season and is having a hard time matching his impressive totals from last year. Play him with caution.
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Bucs Sign Herron, Place Graham On IR -- Wed Nov 19 6:19 pm --
And Warrick Dunn Takes Over Starter's Job |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers leading rusher Earnest Graham will miss the rest of the season after injuring his right ankle during last week's 19-13 victory over the Minnesota Vikings. Graham limped off the field after his only carry against the Vikings. The Bucs said he hurt his ankle, but did not release specifics about the injury. Fourth-year pro Noah Herron was signed to fill Graham's spot on the roster. He has appeared in 23 games with Green Bay and Pittsburgh, rushing for 273 and three touchdowns and catching 29 passes for 211 yards and two TDs. With Graham out, Warrick Dunn moves into the featured tailback role. He will be backed up by Carnell "Cadillac" Williams, who hasn't played in a game since September 2007 because of a serious knee injury. (NFL.com)
FF Today's Take: While Graham has been relied upon to put up decent yardage each week, his loss shouldn't be a huge blow to the Bucs offense. Warrick Dunn has been a more than capable starter in the past and has done a good job this year at the number 2 spot on the depth chart.
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Rams' Jackson Ruled Out For Week 12 -- Tue Nov 18 7:15 am --
Strained Thigh Muscle |
There will be no intrigue this week regarding Steven Jackson’s availability for Sunday’s game against the Bears. Jackson already has been ruled out, meaning that the strained thigh muscle that originally was thought to be a one- or two-day injury is extending toward six weeks.
Jackson was injured in the fourth quarter Oct. 19 against the Cowboys. He reaggravated the injury two weeks later when he tried to come back vs. the Cardinals, and has been sidelined since then.Jackson saw a specialist late last week. “They feel that he should be out this week, rest him,” coach Jim Haslett said. “We’ll see what happens next week.” The injury was rediagnosed as a strain. “It’s just going to take some time to heal,” Haslett said.
(St. Louis Post-Disptach)
FF Today's Take: At least we know early in the week that Jackson will be out for Week 12. Expect Antonio Pittman to get the start once again with Kenneth Darby playing in a backup role. Pittman received twice as many carries as Darby last week but both were active in the passing game as the Rams we're forced to pass early and often after falling behind 35-3 in the first half.
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Graham Out For The Season -- Tue Nov 18 7:00 am --
He's Going To Be Playing Any Time Soon |
Running back Earnest Graham likely will miss the rest of the season, including the playoffs, with an ankle injury sustained on the second play of Sunday's win against the Vikings.
"I don't have the exact medical terms," Bucs coach Jon Gruden said when pressed for details on Graham's injury. "But I would say that it doesn't look like he's going to be playing any time soon." The Bucs now must lean on 33-year-old Warrick Dunn to be their feature back and spread the rest of the carries out between undrafted rookie Clifton Smith (RB, LB) and Cadillac Williams, who hasn't played in more than a year.
Williams has been practicing with the Bucs for close to a month and says he's ready to go, but hesitated a bit on Monday when asked if he was ready to shoulder a regular workload.
"I'm not saying I'd complain, but I don't know," Williams said. "I am coming off a knee injury. But coming back now is something I feel good about. I've put the work in. I'm mentally ready and I'm physically ready."
(Tampa Tribune)
FF Today's Take: In the short term, Warrick Dunn should receive the bulk of the carries for Tampa and is a decent option for your fantasy team. However, the Bucs like to spread the wealth around so don't count on Dunn to be a workhorse back during the final weeks of the season.
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Graham Leaves Early With Injury -- Mon Nov 17 8:00 pm --
Hurt On His First Carry Of The Game |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Earnest Graham left Sunday's 19-13 win over the Minnesota Vikings with a right ankle injury and did not return.
The five-year veteran was hurt on his first carry of the game and had to be helped to the sideline. After being attended to by trainers, he was taken to the locker room for further examination.
Graham, who had been nursing an knee injury in practice this week, had 560 yards rushing with four touchdowns in nine games this season prior to the contest.
(The Sports Network)
FF Today's Take: Graham's early exit allowed Warrick Dunn to rush 20 times for 53 yards. Dunn also pitched in with 4 catches for 65 yards.
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Giants' Jacobs Undergoes MRI -- Mon Nov 17 6:12 pm --
After Sitting Out Half Of Sunday's Game |
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs did not seem worried after sitting out most of the second half in Sunday's 30-10 win over the Baltimore Ravens with swelling in his knee. The Giants, however, were concerned enough to send Jacobs for a precautionary MRI exam on Monday. "There is a little swelling," New York coach Tom Coughlin said. "He is walking really well. They are going to do all of the tests. But hopefully we can get this under control." Jacobs seemed well on the way to becoming the first running back in 29 games to run for 100 yards against the Ravens, who came into Sunday boasting the NFL's top run defense. But Jacobs was limited to two carries in the second half and finished with 73 yards and only 11 attempts. He scored two touchdowns in the first quarter as the Giants scored on their first three possessions to build a 20-0 lead. (National Post)
FF Today's Take: This sounds minor, and if the MRI doesn't reveal anything serious, Jacobs should be ready to go against the Cardinals Sunday.
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Reggie Bush Ruled Out -- Fri Nov 14 8:00 pm --
Close, But Not Ready |
Saints running back Reggie Bush missed Friday's practice and will not play Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs, according to Saints Coach Sean Payton.
"We set a goal, and I think the rehab's gone well, " Payton said. "But especially for his position, I think it's not ready, and obviously we're going to be smart about when we think (he's ready). . . . He'll be 100 percent when we put him back on the field, and it's close, but it wasn't ready." At running back, Pierre Thomas could get more playing time while Bush is gone.
(Times-Picayune)
FF Today's Take: Bush had targeted the Chiefs game for his return but it will to wait at least another week. Expect Deuce McAllister to start and Pierre Thomas to receive carries as well.
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Portis Unlikely, Betts Looking Better -- Fri Nov 14 8:00 am --
Sprained Knee |
Clinton Portis' sprained knee showed no improvement Thursday, and the Washington Redskins running back appears unlikely to play in Sunday night's game against the Dallas Cowboys. "I was hoping today that there would be a little more optimism, and there's not," coach Jim Zorn said. "He's still questionable. I would say there's no change today. I was looking for another jump, but there wasn't." With Portis ailing, Ladell Betts appears set to start Sunday. Betts has missed the last three games with a sprained knee, but he was on the field in steady rain for Thursday's practice.
"Betts looked good," Zorn said. "He's got a brace on but made some cuts. That was encouraging."
Shaun Alexander would start if both Portis and Betts are unable to play.
(ESPN)
FF Today's Take: A tough call for Portis owners as the Redskins play the Cowboys Sunday night. Consider him out for this game and look for other options unless he hits the practice field on Friday.
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Jackson Likely Out Again -- Fri Nov 14 7:30 am --
Missed Practice Thursday |
Barring a miraculous recovery entering today's practice, running back Steven Jackson will miss his third contest in the past four games Sunday at San Francisco. After taking part in his most extensive practice Wednesday since suffering a strained right thigh muscle Oct. 19 against Dallas, Jackson was on the sidelines Thursday at Rams Park. "He's not putting it on the ground and exploding off it," coach Jim Haslett said. "That's the big thing, and until he does it, he's not going to be really effective." According to Jackson, two MRI exams are showing swelling and inflammation in the thigh, but no tear or serious damage.
"So unless it's a tear that we just can't see — and I'm no expert at looking at MRIs — so from what I know, it's still considered a strain," Jackson said.
(St. Louis Post-Dispatch)
FF Today's Take: The frustration for Jackson owners continues. Antonio Pittman will likely get the start. Kenneth Darby is expected to see action as well.
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Walker Done For The Season -- Fri Nov 14 7:00 am --
Surgery Required On Left Ankle |
Raiders wide receiver Javon Walker said Thursday he is out for the season and that he needs surgery on his left ankle.
"I'm done for the season," Walker said as he left the locker room on crutches and a boot on his left foot. "They've got to put some screws in."
When asked if he was serious, Walker said, "yeah." Walker injured his ankle during Sunday's 17-6 loss to the Carolina Panthers but finished the game.
(Sacramento Bee)
FF Today's Take: Hopefully Walker wasn't a big part of your fantasy team. His stat line for 2008: 15 catches, 196 yards, one touchdown.
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Bush's Status Uncertain -- Thu Nov 13 8:25 am --
Practiced On A Limited Basis Wednesday |
Saints running back Reggie Bush returned to the practice field Wednesday for the first time since undergoing knee surgery, but he was noncommittal about playing Sunday. "I think it's definitely a possibility," Bush said about playing at Kansas City on Sunday. "I'm going to do everything I can to try to get back this week." Bush participated in Wednesday's practice on a limited basis, wearing a heavy knee brace that he said would likely be replaced with a lighter sleeve by the time he plays in a game. Wednesday's session was Bush's first since he tore the meniscus in his left knee against the Carolina Panthers on Oct. 19 and underwent surgery to repair it. (Times-Picayune)
FF Today's Take: Admittedly Bush is not 100 percent and it won't be a surprise if he sits out another week giving his knee (torn meniscus) more time to heal.
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Graham Limited In Practice Wednesday -- Thu Nov 13 8:00 am --
Expected To Play |
Warrick Dunn missed the Bucs' last game against Kansas City because of a sore back, and Earnest Graham was limited Wednesday by a sore knee. Both are expected to play Sunday. If one of them can't go, the Bucs will probably give more work to Clifton Smith (RB, LB), the undrafted free agent out of Fresno State who has taken over as their kick and punt returner. Cadillac Williams is not ready to assume a regular role, and he (Jon Gruden) acknowledged that Williams' first game-day action could be weeks away.
(Tampa Tribune)
FF Today's Take: It appears Graham will be ready go on Sunday but follow practice reports this week before inserting him into your lineup.
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Hasselbeck, Branch Expected To Play -- Thu Nov 13 7:15 am --
Both Practiced On Wednesday |
Hasselbeck has passed all the strength tests and been cleared to return to practice. He will be evaluated by Stan Herring again on Wednesday night.
"I can't imagine anything they would say negative or I would say negative," Hasselbeck said. "From everything I can tell right now, everything is really good and I hope to play Sunday." Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck and receiver Deion Branch will both return to the practice field on Wednesday and prepare to start in Sunday's game against Arizona.
Each player missed the past five games, Hasselbeck was out because bulging disk in his back was causing weakness in his leg. Branch was out because of a sore heel.
(Seattle Times)
FF Today's Take: Seattle's passing game, which ranks 31st in the league (145 yds/game) could use a jolt. Perhaps Hasselbeck and Branch could provide a spark that Seneca Wallace, Courtney Taylor, and Billy McMullen could not...?
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Roethlisberger Practices, Should Start -- Thu Nov 13 7:00 am --
Full practice On Wednesday |
Ben Roethlisberger went through a full practice yesterday and should start at quarterback Sunday for the Steelers against San Diego.
Roethlisberger even cut loose with a couple of deep passes, one traveling nearly 50 yards in the air, as he showed no signs of the sore right shoulder that has bothered him from the start of the season.
Coach Mike Tomlin implied Tuesday that if Roethlisberger did not practice more often this week than last -- when he practiced only Friday -- he might not start against the Chargers.
"I'm practicing today and every day unless something happens to me," Roethlisberger said. "It always helps when you're out there doing stuff and guys can hear your voice and see the ball come out of your hand. I think it'll help out a lot."
(Pittsburgh Post Gazette)
FF Today's Take: Roethlisberger will continue to battle this shoulder injury the remainder of the season. He's struggled of late throwing zero touchdowns and four INTs in his last two games.
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Broncos Sign Tatum Bell -- Tue Nov 11 5:30 pm --
Expected To Dress For The Game Sunday |
The Broncos have a new tailback, and he's their old tailback, Tatum Bell. Denver signed Bell today after he auditioned for the team during a morning workout, according to an NFL source.
Bell is expected to dress for the Broncos' game Sunday at Atlanta. Bell makes sense for the team because of its extraordinary injury predicament at tailback and his familiarity with the system.
At tailback, the Broncos have lost Michael Pittman, Andre Hall, and Ryan Torain to season-ending injuries and a fourth tailback, Selvin Young has been bothered the past month with a groin strain.
(Denver Post)
FF Today's Take: Bell started the preseason with the Lions but was cut prior to the regular season beginning. The Broncos are hurting in a big way at running back so its likely Bell will see carries this week along with FB Peyton Hillis.
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Portis Questionable -- Mon Nov 10 6:30 pm --
Sprained Knee |
Clinton Portis is questionable at this point and his chances of facing Dallas on Sunday are "50-50," Coach Jim Zorn said after practice today. Portis has a knee sprain that has worsened since the team last played Nov. 3.
Zorn remains optimistic that Portis will play, but conceded that "it would be a major issue for all of us," if he cannot. Zorn said that second-string back Ladell Betts may be back from his knee injury for Sunday's game, but that he is not "expecting" that result. Should the Redskins be without Betts and Portis, Zorn said RB Rock Cartwright would continue to return kicks, but would have some of his other special teams work curtailed given the shortage of available runners. If Betts returns and Portis is out, Zorn said Betts would play ahead of Shaun Alexander, but that it very well could be " a community position."
(Washington Post)
FF Today's Take: At this point, there's a range of options for the Redskins backfield this week. Alexander would likely see the bulk of the carries if Portis and Betts are not able to play. Portis owners should begin looking at other options.
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Hasselbeck Expected To Start -- Mon Nov 10 5:00 pm --
Week 11 Against Arizona |
Deion Branch and Matt Hasselbeck are both expected on the field Wednesday for practice as the Seahawks prepare to play Arizona, and if all proceeds well, both would start.
Seneca Wallace's status for the game will be a question. He suffered a groin injury in the first quarter of Sunday's game in Miami, which was severe enough Holmgren said he was forced to consider substituting him out of the game. Wallace wanted to stay and finish. Branch could start, and that might not be the only change in the lineup at wide receiver.
"We're going to look at the whole thing again," Holmgren said. "We've been doing it almost on a weekly basis. We'll do it again. We'll keep looking at it."
Seattle has used 11 different wide receivers.
(Seattle Times)
FF Today's Take: Seattle (2-7) is in the middle of a forgettable season and Hasselbeck has very little fantasy value at this point unless you're in a desperate situation.
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Mason Dislocates Left Shoulder -- Sun Nov 9 9:00 pm --
Returned To Action |
The offense made a collective gasp when Flacco's overthrown pass led to (Derrick) Mason's dislocating his left shoulder midway through the first quarter of a scoreless game. (Baltimore Sun)
FF Today's Take: Mason returned to the game and finished with 3 catches for 41 yards. It's likely he will miss practice time this week.
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A. Pittman To Start For STL -- Sun Nov 9 10:00 am --
Kenneth Darby Will Be The Backup |
As it turns out, Kenneth Darby will have to wait a while longer to make his first NFL start.
Jim Haslett said this morning that he’d decided Antonio Pittman had recovered sufficiently from his hamstring injury to earn the start today against the New York Jets. Haslett said Pittman, injured last week against Arizona, went through a demanding workout Saturday without difficulty.
Darby still figures to get plenty of work, but newcomer Samkon Gado probably will be used sparingly, if at all, now.
(St. Louis Post-Dispatch)
FF Today's Take: Earlier in the week it was reported that Darby would start but Antonio Pittman has recovered enough from his hamstring injury to crack the starting lineup.
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J. Stewart Practices Friday -- Sat Nov 8 7:15 am --
Missed Practice Wednesday and Thursday with a Sore Heel |
Running back Jonathan Stewart practiced fully with the Panthers during a light workout Friday after the team arrived in California.
Stewart, who missed practice Wednesday and Thursday with a sore heel, is listed as questionable on the injury report.
The Panthers appear hopeful that Stewart can play, but it could come down to a game-time decision. If he doesn't play, Nick Goings would be the No. 2 running back behind starter DeAngelo Williams.
(Charlotte Observer)
FF Today's Take: Even if he does play, expect DeAngelo Williams to receive the bulk of the carries against the Raiders.
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