Our Fantasy Football Breaking News is presented in a unique format that is geared toward the hardcore fantasy football owner. Not only do we provide all of the latest rumors, signings, trades and injury updates, we talk about how each piece of news impacts the word of fantasy football. Also, be sure to check out all of our 2008 Weekly Fantasy Football Player Projections and all of our 2008 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheets & Rankings.
According to Chris Brown of Buffalobills.com, the odds are good that rookie WR Malcolm Kelly can crack the team's starting line-up this season.
FFX: Kelly is a good receiver and his presence will only help Lee Evans get open down field. Evans is very underrated this season and has some solid draft value. Don't draft him as a WR2, as you can get him a lot cheaper than that, but he could play like a WR2.
Baltimore Ravens tight end Quinn Sypniewski will miss the entire 2008 season following a serious knee he suffered during a pre-draft minicamp, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said today.
According to MLive.com, Lions rookie RB Kevin Smith is "expected" to start at running back in 2008, while Tatum Bell, Aveion Cason, Brian Calhoun and Artose Pinner all fight for the final two spots.
FFX: We expect Bell and Calhoun to remain with the team, but Pinner might as well due to his special teams play.
Xavier Omon falls to his knees. Soon, he'll cry. The man on the other end of the phone is a Buffalo Bills executive. Omon has just been drafted. What happens next? Elizabeth Merrill takes you inside the life of an NFL rookie in his first week on the jo
Bears running back Cedric Benson has hired a prominent defense attorney to help him fight charges of drunken boating and resisting arrest in Texa
According to FreeP.com, Lions RB Brian Calhoun "looks good" after missing most of the last two seasons due to major knee injuries. According to coach Rod Marinelli, Calhoun fits the team's new zone running scheme. “This system here now is what he’s used to in terms of the zone,” Marinelli said. “He’s got really good vision as a zone runner. He is quick right now. He’s alive. He’s got really good third-down skills for us."
FFX: Kevin Smith owners should consider grabbing Calhoun if he secures that back-up job in 2008, but he will probably just find himself playing that third-down role. Monitor this situation and adjust accordingly.
According to ChicagoTribune.com, Bears RB Cedric Benson claims that he was mistreated by police during his recent arrest for boating while intoxicated and resisting arrest. Another eyewitness has reportedly come forward suggesting that Benson's claim is true. The witness reportedly saw police "manhandling" the running back after taking him off of the boat. This witness was not one of the 15 individuals on Benson's boat.
FFX: The eyewitness had this to say about the incident: "They ended up--I don't know why--but laid him on his back, I heard him say, 'Please don't pepper spray me, please don't pepper spray me,'?" he said. "It was uncalled for, it was ludicrous, no point for it."
Browns linebacker Willie McGinest says the 2008 season will be his las
A federal judge in Virginia has ordered imprisoned quarterback Michael Vick to repay more than $2.4 million to a Canadian bank for defaulting on a loa
According to Nola.com, free agent RB Shaun Alexander left New Orleans without a contract. Alexander previously visited with the Bengals.
FFX: It's unclear how interested either team is in Alexander, but there is some general speculation that Alexander could wait a while before signing. If injury should strike an NFL team out there, not only could he land a possible starting gig, he may get a bigger chunk of change. Our guess is that Denver will bring him in next, and if a team is going to lock him down before June, the Broncos could be the the team to do it.
According to ESPN, free agent WR Chris Henry is interested in playing for either the Saints or the Cowboys. "There are two teams that I would always love to play for: That's New Orleans and Dallas," Henry said. "New Orleans is home for me. That's always been a big dream of mine. Hopefully I can get in there and sit down with the coaches and maybe have an opportunity to get down there. And Dallas is another team that I've always looked up to as a kid and wanted to play for them."
FFX: Even if a team was willing to sign Henry, he may end up getting suspended for the entire 2008 season. We will keep you posted if anything develops.
The Colts have put their tag-team runners -- Joseph Addai and Dominic Rhodes -- back togethe
Former Patriots employee Matt Walsh has handed over videotapes to the NF
The Tennessee Titans will be holding a minicamp without defensive tackle Albert Hayneswort
The Chiefs received the largest rookie pool to pay draft choice
According to WashingtonPost.com, Redskins RB Clinton Portis sat out practice with what appears to be a minor hip injury. Coach Jim Zorn reportedly speculated that the injury could have developed when Portis and safety LaRon Landry raced against each other on Sunday.
FFX: Hopefully it's nothing that can linger throughout the off-season. If healthy entering Week 1, Portis could play like a top 8-10 overall talent.
T.O. and maybe Pacman, Tony Romo and Jessica Simpson and, of course, smiling billionaire Jerry Jones. Put 'em all together in a hotel an hour outside Los Angeles and you could have quite a soap opera
According to IndyStar.com, RB Dominic Rhodes has rejoined the Colts. Rhodes reportedly signed a one-year deal worth approximately $650,000.
FFX: Not the best news for Mike Hart, but we still expect him to be the primary back-up to Joseph Addai (or at least he will grab that role by mid-season). If anything, this signing may cause Hart to slip a little bit in 2008 fantasy rookie drafts, which is always a good thing for the crafty fantasy owner.
In his first public comments since being released by the Bengals, Chris Henry said he is excited about Monday's court ruling that he will be allowed to visit other NFL teams
A son of Eagles coach Andy Reid is heading to state prison after admitting he smuggled narcotics into the Montgomery County Jai
Redskins receiver Antwaan Randle El, with crutches under both arms, said the surgery on his right knee went as expected and that he hopes to return to the field for offseason practices next mont
The Raiders signed free-agent linebacker Edgerton Hartwell, hoping he can revive a career beset by injuries in recent season
A woman who was a passenger in Cedric Benson's boat when he was pepper-sprayed and arrested Saturday night said the Bears running back did not seem intoxicated and did not resist arres
In this installment of Third and Short, our experts revisit the 2008 draft to determine why the big-name deals never happened and other matters. Third and Sho
According to ESPN, if the Denver Broncos sign free agent RB Shaun Alexander, the team could release Travis Henry.
FFX: If Alexander signs with the Broncos, rookie RB Ryan Torain may have a tougher time working his way into the starting line-up. It's still possible for Torain to be the team's starter and future runner, but Alexander would definitely be an obstacle. Stay tuned.
Washington Redskins receiver Antwaan Randle El had arthroscopic knee surgery Tuesday and is expected to recover in time for training camp.
Former Minnesota Vikings defensive lineman Darrion Scott was charged with assault and accused of holding a plastic dry cleaning bag over the head of his 2-year-old so
NFL Network filed its complaint Tuesday with the Federal Communications Commission against cable TV giant Comcas
In a surprising move, the Bears released safety Adam Archuleta, a little more than a year after they acquired him in a trad
According to IndyStar.com, police do not see Colts WR Marvin Harrison as a suspect in a recent Philadelphia shooting. Bullets found at the scene came from a gun owned by Harrison, but police are not considering Harrison a suspect at this time.
FFX: Good news so far, but there appears to be a lot more to this story. Stay tuned.
The New York Jets re-signed veteran cornerback Hank Poteat to a one-year deal Tuesda
Replacing Luke Petitgout as the Giants left tackle, David Diehl proved he was the real deal and helped the Giants win Super Bowl XLII. Diehl's reward is a new deal that compensates him for the importance of protecting Eli Manning's blindsid
Chris Henry was in court for a pre-trial hearing Tuesday, and the judge ruled that the former Bengals wide receiver can travel for tryouts with other NFL team
Instead of feeling threatened by RB Rashard Mendenhall, the Steelers' Willie Parker is excited about the duo's potential as a lethal one-two punch, writes James Walke
Cedric Benson had bloodshot eyes, a "strong" alcohol odor and slurred speech when stopped by authorities while boating last weekend on Lake Travis near Austin, Texas, according to a police repor
According to Rotoworld, Bears RB Cedric Benson will be in court on May 19 to face charges of boating while intoxicated and resisting arrest.
FFX: Not only do we expect Matt Forte to start in 2008, we'd be shocked if Benson was still on the Bears roster come August.
A Connecticut boy finally took off his Brett Favre jersey after over four years
The Seattle Seahawks announced Monday starting guard Rob Sims will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his right kne
According to NFL.com, after he his visit with the Bengals on Monday, free-agent RB Shaun Alexander will then go visit with the New Orleans Saints.
FFX: Alexander landing in New Orleans would be bad news for Pierre Thomas owners and great news for Rudi Johnson owners... but our guess is that Alexander lands in Cincy when all is said and done - Be sure to keep checking back with us on this one.
According to SunTimes.com, Steelers rookie RB Rashard Mendenhall was robbed at gunpoint early Monday. Mendenhall was robbed of his phone, cash and wallet at 2 a.m. by two individuals.
FFX: Mendenhall was not hurt during the incident. "It was obviously a scary moment," said his agent, Mike McCartney of Priority Sports. "But he is fine. He is doing great. He said he doesn't have anything that is worth his life."
Steelers draft pick Rashard Mendenhall was reportedly robbed at gunpoint on Monda
According to ESPN's John Clayton, Bears RB Cedric Benson could be on his way out of Chicago after his recent "run-in" with law. Over the weekend, Benson was pepper sprayed and charged with boating while intoxicated and resisting arrest. The runner denied being drunk and resisting officers, but Clayton reports that the Bears "aren't too tolerant of players with off-the-field issues" and this could be "the final straw" for Benson.
FFX: Even before this boating situation, we had Matt Forte penciled in as the Bears' opening day starter. The metal plate in Benson's leg was concern enough, now the back may not even be on the team come August. Matt Forte is in for a big rookie campaign and possibly an outstanding NFL career.
According to ESPN's John Clayton, Panthers QB Jake Delhomme (Tommy John surgery) threw in individual drills this weekend and the team is confident that he can have a full training camp.
FFX: With Jake Delhomme healthy, Steve Smith has top 3WR upside. Last year, Smith pulled in 7 receptions for 118 yards and one touchdown in Week 1. He then pulled in 8 receptions for 153 yards and three touchdowns in Week 2. Delhomme suffered his season-ending shoulder injury in Week 3, any questions?
According to ESPN's John Clayton, Steelers rookie WR Limas Sweed worked with Hines Ward at the Steelers' minicamp and the underrated receiver "instantly established himself as a red-zone presence and big target" for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.
FFX: The best part about Sweed is that he is a hard worker. He was an absolute steal for Pittsburgh, as the team grabbed the youngster with the No. 53 overall pick. Sweed was the 9th wide receiver taken on draft day, which is insane considering that he was our #2 ranked WR heading into draft day.
According to ESPN's John Clayton, Redskins RB Clinton Portis is in the best shape of his Redskins career, and he proved it by almost beating safety LaRon Landry in a foot race. Landry, who ran a 4.35 forty coming out of college, closely beat the challenging Portis.
FFX: The Redskins coaching staff has made it a point that they will use Portis a ton in 2008. Portis, who is currently 26, is healthy and ready to rumble in '08. Consider him a top 10-14 overall pick heading into all 2008 fantasy football drafts.
According to NCTimes.com, Chargers TE Antonio Gates expects to be ready for Week 1, even if he is not ready for the start of training camp. "It's a feel thing," Gates said. "That's how I've always went about my business ---- on how it feels. (Doctors) give an estimate of time when you can be ready. Worst-case scenario is I'll be ready in September. The best-case scenario is I'll be ready in July."
FFX: Gates is still our #1TE. Witten is worthy, no question, but Gates should be ready to roll by Week 1.
Former Detroit Lions defensive end Robert Porcher has been sentenced to 50 hours of community service for an assault on his ex-wif
According to Rotoworld.com, Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson said in an ESPN interview that he doesn't anticipate playing five more seasons in the NFL.
FFX: According to the report, Tomlinson wants to "go out on top" rather than ever play the game at a less than elite level. If Tomlinson plays just four more seasons, he would turn 32 right before that last campaign - Given his workload, four years could be pushing it, but 2-3 years is certainly possible. Despite the massive "I need to dump L.T. now while I still can" panic that is going on throughout fantasy leagues everywhere, we still feel that Tomlinson remains a top three overall dynasty pick.
Is Cedric Benson's latest brush with the law the last straw for him in Chicago? Who will emerge as the 49ers' starting quarterback? After the NFL's first weekend of minicamps, John Clayton answers those questions and mor
There are no new developments in the investigation of a shooting near Marvin Harrison's bar, although the case is on the back burner as police search for a bank robbery suspect who allegedly killed a police officer in Philadelphia this weekend
Falcons linebacker Michael Boley, who was one of Atlanta's leading tacklers in 2007, was charged with battery on Saturday, police told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution
According to Chargers.com, Chargers coach Norv Turner has decided against using RB LaDainian Tomlinson in the off-season. “I just told him we weren’t going to do it,” Turner said. “There wasn’t a lot of discussion involved. He doesn’t need to carry the ball in the preseason. He’s been pretty productive doing things the way they’ve been done around here a long time.”
FFX: Earlier reports suggested that L.T. would play a bit in the pre-season to avoid a slow start, but it looks like Norv Turner squashed that idea. This is probably a good thing for L.T. owners to be honest.
According to NBC5.com, Bears RB Cedric Benson told his side of the story (arrest) to NBC 5 reporter Peggy Kusinski. Benson said that he passed all of the field sobriety tests and officers did not charge him with anything, but the officers then wanted to take Benson to dry land for more testing. Benson said that he was polite until the officer suddenly pepper sprayed him. At that point, according to Benson, he never refused to wear a life jacket, but police threw one over his head. Once they all reached land, Benson says that he was carried and dragged all the way to a police car and that never had a chance to resist officers, as his feet were kicked out from under him. "I did nothing wrong; I didn't resist arrest, didn't curse and wasn't drunk," Benson told NBC 5.
FFX: How about that Matt Forte? He sure is looking good heading into 2008!
According to ESPN.com, Cardinals QB Matt Leinart (collarbone) did not appear to be limited in the team's first post-draft practice.
FFX: Leinart is expected to start for the Cards in 2008, but having Warner backing him up is a safety net most teams do not have. The Cardinals could surprise a lot of teams this season by coasting into the playoffs well above .500. Yep, we said the words "coast into the playoffs" and "Cardinals" in the same sentence!
According to RockyMountainNews.com, Broncos QB Jay Cutler is expected to wear an insulin pump during practice sessions and in pre-game warm-ups. He will then take the device off for the three hours that it takes to play a game, but Cutler will keep a close watch on his glucose levels, possibly checking the levels after each quarter.
FFX: Cutler's playing weight is 238-pounds, yet he dropped all the way down to 202-pounds. Tough to say how this will affect him or how long of a career he will now have, but the quarterback is only 25 and a lot of drive.
The 30-acre spread owned by suspended cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones' was put on the market Thursday for $1.8 million by real estate agent Brad Pilz.
According to ChicagoTribune.com, Chicago Bears RB Cedric Benson was arrested late Saturday night in Texas. He was charged with boating while intoxicated and resisting arrest, both of which are Class B misdemeanors. According to a Travis County sergeant, Benson was arrested by the Lower Colorado River Authority after Benson failed a sobriety "float test" (a field sobriety test) while on the boat. After failing the test, Benson argued over taking a second test on land and the runner refused to put on a life jacket. LCRA officers attempted to arrest the Bears running back after that, but Benson refused to cooperate and pepper spray was used.
FFX: This couldn't have unfolded any better for rookie RB Matt Forte, as the starting running back job is almost certainly his now. Benson was booked at 11:24 p.m. on Saturday night, but is now out on a $14,500 bond. Bears coach Lovie Smith had this to say on the matter: "Anytime we're talking about one of our players getting arrested, you're disappointed."
They're the same height and almost the same weight. They have many of the same facial features. They use some of the same expressions. They play the same position. And, for the first time, Carson and Jordan Palmer play on the same NFL tea
Washington Redskins second-round draft pick Fred Davis did not show up for minicamp practice Sunday, prompting the team to send security officials to find the tight en
Bears running back Cedric Benson, the fourth overall pick in the 2005 NFL draft, was charged with boating while intoxicated and resisting arrest Saturday night near Austin, Texas, according to a published report
According to Rotoworld.com, Steelers rookie RB Rashard Mendenhall sat out both Saturday practice sessions with what appears to be a tweaked hamstring. This is reportedly a small precaution.
FFX: Mendy should be fine in a day or two. Mendenhall remains our favorite long-term fantasy option out of all the top rookie runners. Don't get us wrong, Darren McFadden is a close second - Both backs are going to be studs in this league.
According to Tennessean.com, Titans offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger "doesn't carry a Swiss Army knife, but he now has a player he can use like one in running back Chris Johnson." Apparently the OC is very pleased with his new secret weapon. "We were out there making up routes,'' Heimerdinger said. "I've never had a guy that can do (things Johnson can). … You need to be able to take advantage of the guy because he can do so many things. We'll just see what he can handle.''
FFX: People can't stop talking about this kid's speed. "His speed is called ridiculous,'' receiver Lavelle Hawkins said. "I am one of those guys that can run a little bit, but his speed is ridiculous. If you give him any little room at all he can go.''
According to FreeP.com, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Jim Colletto is implementing a zone running scheme, which is the same scheme in which Smith excelled in at the college level at UCF. "That's enabling me to come out here and play a little faster and not do as much thinking," Kevin Smith said. "I mean, from the snap count to the exact plays' names, we ran the same thing. I've got a little advantage."
FFX: This will make Smith extremely comfortable right out of the gate. Smith is still a bit raw, but he will have every opportunity to shine in Detroit.
According to BaltimoreSun.com, the Baltimore Ravens have "repeatedly called this is an open competition" between Kyle Boller, Joe Flacco and Troy Smith.
FFX: We believe that Joe Flacco will win the job and start Week 1. Boller and Smith have not impressed and Flacco should immediately step in and be the best signal-caller that the team has. With the right coaching and offensive support, Flacco could be a force in this league for years and years to come.
According to The Dallas Morning News, Cowboys running backs coach Skip Peete is excited about Felix Jones' abilities. "The guy is a very special kid in my mind," Peete said. "I had an opportunity to coach a guy who had a lot of similarities to him as far as impacting the game -- a kid by the name of Charlie Garner. You had him matched up with a guy who was a physical, tough runner in Tyrone Wheatley. Then you've got Garner in the game and it's two drastically different styles, so the defense had to prepare for different styles."
FFX: Remember how good Charlie Garner was for a short period of time? We realize that it doesn't sound like the best comparison, but it's truly a solid compliment coming from Peete, who loved Garner and his playing style. Jones is a great talent, and he will be a solid addition for the Cowboys, but Marion "The Barbarian" Barber is the starter in Dallas and he should still be capable of producing like a top 12-15 back (as long as he stays healthy).
According to CarolinaGrowl.com, Panthers WR Muhsin Muhammad worked with the first team at Friday morning's minicamp practice.
FFX: D.J. Hackett signing in Carolina made us scratch our heads. He picked the worst place to sign for a WR on the rise. Hopefully he is eventually able to grab the starting role opposite Steve Smith, but it sounds like Muhammad may be the favorite at this point. Obviously that can quickly change, though. Stay tuned.
Emmitt Smith has some advice for suspended cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones: Stay out of troubl
Everything seems cool between former No. 1 overall pick Alex Smith and 49ers head coach MikeNolan, who shared an ostentatious hug in their first public appearance since the two exchanged bitter words through the medi
Anquan Boldin says it's news to him that he's unhappy and wants out of Arizon
According to IndyStar.com, Colts WR Marvin Harrison is part of an investigation into an alleged shooting that took place outside of a Philadelphia bar. Harrison is part owner of the bar and reportedly owns the gun that was used in the shooting. Police have not named Harrison as a suspect. Colts coach Tony Dungy had this to say on the matter: “My phone has been ringing, too. I really don’t have any details. I don’t know what ‘involved’ means. (I) probably don’t have any more information than (the media have) right now.’’
FFX: We will keep you informed as the info becomes available.
According to ESPN.com, Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin is not seeking a trade. "I've always wanted to be in Arizona," Boldin said after practice today. "This is the only place I have known professionally. I don't want to uproot my family and leave. I am happy here. I have a great rapport with everybody around here, coaches included. I am happy here."
FFX: Boldin should be extremely underrated heading into '08 fantasy drafts. Take full advantage, as Boldin always has top 10-12WR upside.
Shawn Springs thought he would have a little fun when he intercepted a pass, so he lateraled the ball to Fred Smoot. Smoot tipped the ball around like a volleyball before it fell to the groun
Lito Sheppard reported for a mandatory minicamp Friday night, ending speculation that he might hold out until the Philadelphia Eagles trade him or give him a new contrac
Vernon Gholston insists it's only a coincidence that he's wearing the No. 56 for the New York Je
The Minnesota Vikings want Kenechi Udeze to focus on his fight against leukemia and not worry about his financial situatio
ESPN is reporting that Colts WR Marvin Harrison is allegedly involved in a Philadelphia shooting.
FFX: We will keep you posted on this, but there was an incident that took place outside of a bar that Harrison is believed to be part owner of. Harrison may have owned a gun that was involved in a shooting, but this appears to be speculation. Harrison and his attorney reportedly acknowledge that there was a fight at the bar, but it is far too early to say what is going on, but the gun involved was Harrison's gun. The gun fires 50 caliber bullets.
According to ESPN, the Denver Broncos won't know the status of WR Marshall until right before training camp. Marshall is still recovering from cutting an artery, a vein, a nerve, two tendons and three muscles in his right arm while horsing around with his older brother.
FFX: Marshall is a risky selection in 2008 fantasy drafts if you ask us. Grab him if he slips too far, but we would rather have an Anquan Boldin over a Marshall at this point in the off-season. That could change if Marshall proves more than healthy come June-July, but we wouldn't count on it.
Jay Cutler realizes he should have recognized something was wrong last season when lost 35 pounds and some zip on his famous fastball
Colts wide receiver Marvin Harrison is under investigation in his hometown of Philadelphia in a shooting that took place late Tuesday afternoon, a source close to the investigation told Anthony Gargano of WIP Radi
According to PittsburghLive.com, Steelers offensive coordinator Bruce Arians had this to say on No. 23 overall pick Rashard Mendenhall: "(Steelers running backs coach) Kirby Wilson and I both felt he might have been the most-ready-to-play guy of the top running backs because he can pass protect," Arians said of Mendenhall, who was the fourth running back taken in the draft. "That's usually the hardest thing for the young running backs coming out of college is having to block Joey Porter off the edge or those great linebackers they face one-on-one in pass protection."
FFX: We've said this numerous times already and we will continue to say it all off-season long: Rashard Mendenhall is the real deal, and just like we predicted about Adrian Peterson in Minnesota (when so many thought it was an awful landing spot due to Chester Taylor's presence), Pittsburgh is the ideal landing spot for the elite talent. Mendy is going to thrive in that Steelers offensive attack, which is loaded with talent. Not only is the rookie extremely gifted, that Pittsburgh system is going to make Mendy a fantasy stud much like the Colts' system makes Addai a fantasy stud. Mendenhall might start off slow, but he might finish on such a high note that he could be a first-round pick in 2009 fantasy drafts.
The Browns and general manager Phil Savage agreed to a three-year contract extension that will keep Savage with the team through 201
The Bears and Ravens are similar in many ways, yet they took very different approaches in the draft. Which team did it right? Only time will tell, writes Seth Wickersham
According to GastonGazette.com, neither Jake Delhomme (Tommy John surgery) or Jonathan Stewart (toe) will participate in the team's first off-season mini-camp, but both players are expected to be ready to roll by training camp.
FFX: Steve Smith is a monster with Delhomme in the line-up. Delhomme went down in Week 3 last year, but in weeks 1-2, Smith averaged 7.5 receptions, 135.5 yards receiving and 2TDs per game. The Panthers WR scored 3TDs in Week 2 alone. Smith should have outstanding draft value heading into 2008 drafts.
Denver Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler has been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, his business manager Marty Garafalo confirmed Thursday nigh
According to Bengals.com, free agent RB Shaun Alexander will visit with the Bengals on Monday.
FFX: Even if Alexander is in fact inked by Cincy, we wouldn't expect him to take the job away from Rudi, who is two years younger than the former Seattle running back. Still, Rudi was just developing some fantasy momentum again and Alexander would surely steal a grip of carries away from Rudi in 2008, crushing his value. Keep checking back.
A man charged with shooting three people outside a Las Vegas strip club denies he was involved and accused suspended cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones of ordering the shooting and framing him to avoid identifying the real shooter
The Falcons sound serious about starting QB Matt Ryan from day one. That could be a serious mistake, writes Pat Yasinskas
According to MLive.com, the Detroit Lions have signed RB Artose Pinner, which means that both Tatum Bell and Brian Calhoun are on "shaky ground" looking forward.
FFX: We don't see Bell getting cut, but Pinner's special teams abilities possibly make him more attractive than Calhoun. We project Bell to be Kevin Smith's back-up in 2008.
Bush, a Texas guy, lauded the New York Giants on Wednesday for winning the Super Bow
The Jacksonville Jaguars signed free agent safety Pierson Prioleau on Wednesday and waived quarterback Lester Ricar
According to RockyMountainNews.com, Broncos rookie RB Ryan Torain has declared himself 100 percent recovered from his foot surgery that kept him out of the last six contests of the 2007 season, but the Broncos are expected to limit his workload a bit heading into June mini-camps.
FFX: Torain has a grip of fantasy upside heading into the '08 fantasy season. If he starts for the Broncos early on, Torain could end up being one of the best 2008 producing rookie runners. His long-term value is up in the air, as Shanahan is starting to develop a habit of rotating his running backs in and out of the line-up from year to year, but his ceiling for the 2008 season could be extremely high.
Seahawks defensive tackle Marcus Tubbs, a former No. 1 draft choice, recently underwent arthroscopic surgery to clean up his chronically-injured right kne
Patriots receiver Randy Moss is putting together a motorsports group and hopes to race truck
The Chargers revamped their front office on Tuesday, hiring former GM Randy Muelle
Unable to land a tackle early in last weekend's draft, the San Diego Chargers signed veteran L.J. Shelton to a two-year deal Tuesda
Fred Weary's patience was rewarded Tuesday when the Texans re-signed the offensive lineman to a one-year, $1.5 million contrac
The Buffalo Bills will receive $78 million -- more than double their calculated 2006 operating income -- to play eight games in Toronto over the next five years
Former Tennessee Titans wide receiver Tyrone Calico faces indictment on drunken driving charges after a judge Tuesday sent his case to the grand jur
The Carolina Panthers added more depth at defensive tackle with the signing of free agent Ian Scot
According to Post-Gazette.com, offensive coordinator Bruce Arians will consider using a "pony backfield" at times in 2008, which will feature both RB Rashard Mendenhall and Fast Willie Parker at the same time. "Other than the normal one-two punch, they can play together," Arians said yesterday. "Rashard has enough size as a pass blocker and pass receiver and Willie is improving in that area every year as a receiver."
FFX: Both backs will be used at first - There is even a good chance that both runners will split carries for most of the 2008 season, or until Willie Parker gets banged up again. Although, once Mendenhall gets the keys to the starting line-up, the elite talent is going to kickoff a phenomenal NFL career, possibly reaching top 5 overall fantasy football value. It could take a year or two to get to that level of fantasy production, but the Pittsburgh rookie is still capable of producing a top 10-14 fantasy running back year in his first season in the pros. He is in an excellent situation for the long-term. Excellent.
Ed Marion, an NFL official for 28 years and a head linesman in three Super Bowls, has died. He was 8
According to ESPN's John Clayton, the Colts "might consider" bringing back Dominic Rhodes.
FFX: This just sounds like speculation by Clayton, but anything is possible. We like Mike Hart a ton and Indy is a great place for him. Addai isn't going anywhere, but if for some reason the Colts starter is forced to sit out some games, Hart is a guy that fantasy owners are going to want to own (especially in that offense).
According to Yahoo Sports, Warren Sapp had this to say on Raiders RB LaMont Jordan: “..after three games last season, LaMont Jordan led the NFL in rushing. But LaMont is like the worst offseason running back I’ve ever been around; he was out of shape and couldn’t keep it going.
FFX: LaMont was on fire for a shot time at the beginning of last season. It's too bad he isn't in shape and looking for work, but Jordan could be near his end in the world of fantasy football.
The NFL draft passed without the Miami Dolphins trading Jason Taylor but that doesn't mean all is well with the team's star defensive player and new football czar Bill Parcells
Sure, the 2008 NFL draft just finished up, but that doesn't mean Todd McShay and Scouts Inc. can't take a stab at projecting the first round in 200
The Philadelphia Eagles sued their former wide receiver Terrell Owens for bonus money he has not repaid the tea
According to Rotoworld.com, the Denver Broncos have similar feelings about fifth-round RB Ryan Torain as they did about RB Terrell Davis, this according to NFL Network's Adam Schefter.
FFX: Torain is coming off of a Lisfranc injury, but the running back says that he is 100% healthy. If he is truly ready to roll, this kid could seriously upset the natural flow of 2008 fantasy football rookie drafts. Because Shanny is starting to rotate runners in and out of Denver so frequently these days, it's tough to evaluate Torain's long-term value. That said, because the Arizona State product is now in Denver, he has as much 2008 upside as any rookie in this class.
According to reports, the Oakland Raiders have released RB Dominic Rhodes.
FFX: Why won't the Raiders just release LaMont Jordan already? The thing is, even if Jordan was released, it's tough to say if a team would even given him a shot (like Houston). We still think Jordan has a few years left as an NFL starter, at least for a team like Denver or Houston, but things aren't looking good for LaMont.
Oakland Raiders notified halfback Dominic Rhodes that he is being released
According to AZCentral.com, Cardinals running backs coach Maurice Carthon is high on fifth-round RB Tim Hightower. Offensive coordinator Todd Haley also likes the youngster, saying that Hightower reminded him of Dallas Cowboys RB Marion Barber, a tough rusher who might not have blazing speed.
FFX: Hightower is a guy to target later in your 2008 fantasy football rookie draft, as he has some solid upside with the Cards. He won't unseat Edge this year, but it is possible that he has a future with the team. Monitor his progress at the position heading into August.
The Panthers added depth on their defensive line by agreeing to a one-year deal with free agent Darwin Walke
The Bengals have two ways to replace Chris Henry. Maybe Chad Johnson, too. They took Florida's Andre Caldwell in the third round, giving Cincinnati two WRs in their first four picks. They had invested a 2nd-round pick in Coastal Carolina's Jerome Simpso
Chris Baker, who has been trying to get the Jets to rework his contract, was frustrated when he heard the team had moved up to draft another tight end, Dustin Keller.
The Super Bowl champion New York Giants took a Miami safety in the first round and made as much news by keeping another Hurricanes top pick -- tight end Jeremy Shocke
Chicago Bears general manager Jerry Angelo had this to say on the team's new rookie running back: "I felt like our running game obviously was one of the weak spots on our football team. He gives us a big back, a three down back. He has enough speed to get to the outside and he has the ability to make people miss at the second level. Those were two areas where we could really never find any consistency which made us an easy team to defend from my perspective. He has very, very good hands and he’s a three down back."
FFX: Forte might very well be the steal of 2008 fantasy football rookie drafts. He will probably go 4th or 5th in most leagues (as far as the rookies go), but the runner could end up being more than a beast in that Bears offense. That Chicago defense still has the ability to be stellar, and the special teams unit is going to consistently get Forte and that offensive attack in good field position... While we like Darren McFadden, Rashard Mendenhall and Jonathan Stewart more than Forte for the long-term, the Bears rookie could have one of the better rookie campaigns of the group.
The Colts have selected Michigan RB Mike Hart with the No. 201 pick in today's second day of the 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Hart is a great athlete and he has proven doubters wrong his entire football career. If Addai were to get hurt, Hart would shine in that Indy offense. If you own Addai in a dynasty league, Hart is a must-own. If you're in a deep dynasty league, consider attacking Hart after all the potential starting rookies are off the board.
The 2008 NFL draft broke the record for trade
Chadron State running back Danny Woodhead, the NCAA's career rushing leader, signed a free-agent deal with the New York Jets on Sunday night, according to the player and his agen
After threatening Barry Sanders' single-season rushing record in college, Kevin Smith now can concentrate -- or at least dream about -- Sanders' marks with the Detroit Lion
The Denver Broncos have selected Arizona State RB Ryan Torain at No. 139 overall during this day two of the 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Shanny was almost a lock to grab a back in this deep RB class -- Well, he found his guy! Torain, who is perfect for that one-cut system in Denver, could be a big-time sleeper runner in 2008 redraft leagues. As for you dynasty league owners out there... If you own the 1.04 pick in your 2008 fantasy rookie drafts, we wouldn't call you nuts if you used the selection on Torain. Just know that Shanny almost always starts his rookie runners, but he uses them like pay-as-you-go phones, so be careful if you do invest. Our general ranking of the 4-6 running backs are Kevin Smith, Matt Forte and then Ryan Torain.
The Detroit Lions have selected Central Florida RB Kevin Smith at No. 64 overall during this day two of the 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: This is a solid fit for Kevin Smith, who will face very little competition at the running back position. We expect him to do well right out of the gate and grab the starting duties by mid-season. We can't guarantee that the Lions will give Smith a lot of room to run, but the running back could be the 4th-best fantasy rookie runner out of this very deep class.
The Washington Redskins have selected Hawaii QB Colt Brennan at No. 186 overall during this day two of the 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Colt Brennan is the sleeper QB of this entire draft class. What a great landing spot, as this offense has a young stud runner in Clinton Portis, two solid wide receivers in Santana Moss and Devin Thomas and an oft-injured quarterback in Jason Campbell. Grab this kid in your 2008 fantasy football rookie drafts, he is worth a middle-round selection!
A convicted steroids dealer claims he sold steroids and human growth hormone to NFL offensive lineman Matt Lehr, according to a published repor
The NFL has finally approved the first trade in league history involving a suspended player: Pacman Jones is officially a Dallas Cowbo
The Cowboys have signed Pacman Jones to a three-year contact with a club option for a fourth season and submitted the documentation to the NF
The Ravens have selected Rutgers RB Ray Rice with the No. 55 overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: This is a great grab for the Ravens, and Rice would shine in Cam Cameron's offense if anything should happen to Willis McGahee. McGahee owners better consider Rice a must-have in that offense!
The Green Bay Packers have selected Louisville QB Brian Brohm with the No. 56 pick of the 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: What a great selection! This has to be one of the biggest steals of the entire 2008 NFL Draft. It might just be one of the best fits as well, as we aren't extremely confident in Aaron Rodgers. This could also put the Brett Favre rumors to bed for a bit, because if Rodgers was to get banged up, the Pack would likely want to get Brian Brohm into the line-up immediately. Great move!
The Miami Dolphins have selected Michigan QB Chad Henne with the No. 57 overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: This is a solid fit, as the Dolphins still didn't have a franchise QB. They may now have one in Henne.
The Bengals have selected Coastal Carolina WR Jerome Simpson with the No. 46 overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Simpson is talented, but why the Bengals would pass on Texans WR Limas sweed is beyond us. Sweed would have been an absolute steal at No. 46. Great news for the Steelers, who have one of the best drafts so far (Mendenhall/Sweed).
The Packers placed quarterback Brett Favre on the reserve-retired list Friday, effectively further shutting the door on his coming out of retirement.
The Chicago Bears have selected Tulane RB Matt Forte with the No. 44 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: This is a great spot for Matt Forte, and this makes ranking this year's group of rookie runners that much harder. Forte could be the 3rd- or 4th-best rookie from this class, it's that tough to tell at this point. So far, though, Darren McFadden in Oakland is by far the best talent/situation combination out there, so he is our #1 overall ranked rookie heading into 2008.
The Washington Redskins have selected Michigan State WR Devin Thomas with the No. 34 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Thomas is the best WR in this draft if you ask us, but there were better landing spots. Still, we project Thomas to have a big future in the world of fantasy football.
The St. Louis Rams have selected Houston WR Donnie Avery with the No. 33 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: It's quite a shock that he is the first WR off the board, but he is in a good situation in St. Louis.
The New York Giants have selected Miami (FL) S Kenny Phillips with the No. 31 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
The Jets have traded with the Packers for the No. 30 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft - The Jets have selected Purdue TE Dustin Keller with that No. 30 pick overall.
The 49ers have selected North Carolina DT Kentwan Balmer with the No. 29 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
The Seattle Seahawks have selected USC DE Lawrence Jackson with the No. 28 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
The San Diego Chargers have selected Arizona CB Antoine Cason with the No. 27 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
The Houston Texans have selected Virginia Tech OT Duane Brown with the No. 26 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
The Seattle Seahawks have selected South Florida CB Mike Jenkins with the No. 25 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
The Tennessee Titans select East Carolina RB Chris Johnson with the No. 24 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Wow. Everyone was thinking WR Devin Thomas with this pick, but the Titans shocked everyone selecting the speedy runner. The kid has skills, and he runs a 4.24 forty. Did catch that? We said 4.24! He isn't an every-down runner, but his special teams abilities and his home run abilities will make the Titans organization very happy. Bad news for LenDale White owners, but we have never been high on White. He will probably still start, as we said, Chris Johnson is not an every-down guy, but this selection certainly doesn't help LeDale's value.
The Steelers have selected Illinois RB Rashard Mendenhall #23 overall in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Mendy is the most NFL ready back in this draft and the Steelers just landed a stud! This is awful news for Willie Parker owners. It's tough to say how many carries Mendy will get right away, but he is the future of this team's power rushing attack. He might be a top 5-10 fantasy talent in the very near future.
The Dallas Cowboys have selected Arkansas RB Felix Jones #22 overall in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: We like Jones, but honestly we think Rashard Mendenhall is the best running back in this entire draft... and he is still on the board. Will the Steelers land the future stud? As for this move by the Cowboys, this clearly hurts Marion Barber's value. Get on our FFX Forums and talk about this!
The Atlanta Falcons, in a trade, have moved up and selected USC OT Sam Baker.
FFX: As we've said already, the Falcons are going to turn some heads in 2008 and it all starts with this draft. Matt Ryan and Sam Baker... those are two huge selections and this franchise should turn things around quickly. Great moves for Atlanta!
The Tampa Bay Bucs have selected Kansas CB Aqib Talib with the No. 20 pick in the NFL draft.
The Ravens have selected Delaware QB Joe Flacco with the #18 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Great move by the Ravens. This kid has it all and will be the leader of this team for years and years to come. We firmly believe that he is the readl deal!
The Carolina Panthers have traded up with the Eagles to select Pittsburgh OT Jeff Otah with the No. 19 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
The Ravens have selected Delaware QB Joe Flacco with the #18 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Great move by the Ravens. This kid has it all and will be the leader of this team for years and years to come. We firmly believe that he is the readl deal!
The Lions have selected Boston College OT Gosder Cherilus with the #17 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft
FFX: Looks like Mendy could slip a ways, as the Ravens are now on the clock and could be selecting QB Joe Flacco.
The Arizona Cardinals have selected Tennessee CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie with the #16 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Looks like Detroit may be selecting Rashard Mendenhall next.
The Kansas City Chiefs, trading with the Lions, have selected Virginia OG Branden Albert with the #15 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Great news for Larry Johnson owners! Great news!
The Chicago Bears have selected Vanderbilt OT Chris Williams with the #14 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Nice grab for the Bears, but we would have liked to have seen RB Rashard Mendenhall go at this pick. The Bears could still grab a rookie runner later on in this very deep 2008 NFL Draft, something to keep in mind.
The Carolina Panthers have selected Oregon RB Jonathan Stewart with the #13 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Wow. Stewart going before Mendy is a bit of a shock, but we have actually heard whispers from a few sources that many teams felt this way. It's tough to say what this will mean for Stewart's fantasy value this early. The Panthers love to run the football up the middle, so Stewart is sure to get a ton of carries right away in '08, but how much will the Panthers still use DeAngelo Williams? You can bet that we're talking about this right now on our FFX Forums and we will be talking about this in our upcoming Updated 2008 Staff Mock Draft.
The Denver Broncos have selected Boise State OT Ryan Clady with the #12 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Great news for Jay Cutler. Clady needs to get a bit stronger for being a 300 pound guy, but this kid has a grip of upside. This will also help the Broncos rushing attack in 2008, something we think that Shanny will address in the 2nd- or 3rd-round. This selection of Clady could start an offensive tackle run! Watch out!
The Buffalo Bills have selected Troy CB Leodis McKelvin with the #11 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
Not a popular pick for New England fans, as it seems a bit early, but Mayo is a solid talent and is very underrated. He can play a grip of positions, something the Patriots love.
The Bengals have selected USC LB Keith Rivers with the #9 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
The Jags, who have traded up in a deal with the Ravens, have selected Florida DE Derrick Harvey with the #8 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
he New Orleans Saints, after trading up with the New England Patriots, have selected USC DT Sedrick Ellis with the #7 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: In the trade, the Patriots receive No. 10 overall and a third-round pick, while the Saints receive No. 7 (Ellis) and a 5th.
The New York Jets have selected Ohio State DE Vernon Gholston with the #6 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: This guy is still learning the game, but he is a pure stud in the making. He is a beast, as he put up 37 reps at the combine.
The Kansas City Chiefs have selected LSU DT Glenn Dorsey with the #5 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Great move for the Chiefs. This guy has everything a DT needs. He is arguably one of the best DT to come out of college in a long time.
The Oakland Raiders have selected RB Darren McFadden with the #4 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: This is a solid fit for the Raiders, as they now have a powerful trio in JaMarcus Russell, Javon Walker and Darren McFadden. The Raiders, like the Falcons, are building well through free agency and through the draft - Watch out for both teams in the near future.
The Atlanta Falcons have selected Boston College QB Matt Ryan with the #3 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: The Falcons now have their guy! Many fantasy owners are down on the Falcons and the value of RB Michael Turner now that he is in Atlanta, but we think that this franchise is going to have a great draft and it all starts with Ryan. The Falcons could be this year's Cleveland Browns.
The St. Louis Rams have selected Virginia DE Chris Long with the #2 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: Long is a very athletic defensive end and is a solid fit for the Rams.
The Miami Dolphins have selected OT Jake Long with the #1 overall pick in today's 2008 NFL Draft.
The Titans locked up a big key to the future by reaching a six-year, $43 million extension with left tackle Michael Roo
The Dallas Cowboys traded linebacker Akin Ayodele and tight end Anthony Fasano to the Miami Dolphins for a fourth-round draft pick, a person familiar with the deal said Frida
New Orleans's apparent deal for would-be new tight end Jeremy Shockey has hit a delay with the Giants' demand for more than a No. 2 draft pick for the former Pro Bowler, ESPN's John Clayton report
According to ProFootballTalk.com, a deal that would send TE Jeremy Shockey to the Saints might already be in place.
FFX: More than one source is reporting this, but it could have all been generated from one bad source. We aren't saying that it isn't accurate, or that the originating source is wrong, but rumors can spread fast this close to draft day - Just keep that in mind. If Shockey is traded to the Saints, there is a chance that the deal won't be announced until the Giants are on the clock. This would be a great move for both Drew Brees and Shockey owners. It would also create a decent waiver wire prospect in Kevin Boss.
The Pacman Jones-to-Dallas deal still wasn't finalized Friday, two days after the teams agreed in principle and the eve of the NFL draf
According to JSOnline.com, the Green Bay Packers have placed former quarterback Brett Favre on the team's reserve/retired list this afternoon. If Favre did in fact want to return to the Packers in 2008, he would have to petition Commissioner Roger Goodell of his intentions, and then Goodell would have to approve it. The move now puts the Packers about $32.55 million under the cap for '08.
FFX: ESPN aired an interview today between Suzy Kolber and Brett Favre, and that interview sure didn\'t convince us that Favre is done. While he did say some things that sounded like he was still planning on moving on with his life, it felt like he was at the edge of his seat with the topic and he certainly admitted he thinks about football a lot. If injury strikes the Packers quarterback position, we think that Favre is as good as back. If Rodgers struggles early on, but doesn\'t get hurt, at least expect the \"comeback\" talk to generate. If anything does change with Favre and his retirement, it\'s going to be well past August (unless Rodgers suffers an off-season/preseason injury).
According to NFL.com, Bengals WR Chad Johnson is prepared to sit out during the regular season. "I will take the criticism," Johnson said. "I will stick by my guns, and I will not be there. I feel things need to be done to make this team better. I don't blame Marvin Lewis. I love him. You have never heard me say one bad thing about my coaches or teammates. I know it's not up to Coach Lewis. Whether I'm traded, or if we get better players, is not up to him. If it was up to Coach Lewis, then he would do it."
FFX: It's tough to rank Chad Johnson right now, because for the first time we're starting to think he might sit out. If fantasy owners were forced to draft their fantasy squads right this very minute, we'd recommend that those owners pass on Chad early on (to a point) and let someone else take the risk. As of this moment, it's really tough to suggest what round to select Johnson in, but you can bet that we will cover this topic as it develops and we will take a hard stance later on in the off-season.
Maybe the best proof that Brett Favre is the football icon of his generation came Friday when he became the cover boy for Madden NFL '0
Len Pasquarelli, a senior NFL writer for ESPN.com, has been selected by the Pro Football Writers of America as the 2008 recipient of the Dick McCann Awar
Drew Rosenhaus, who is the agent of Bengals WR Chad Johnson, put up a YouTube clip on YouTube.com begging the Bengals to trade his client.
FFX: Classic Drew Rosenhaus. Classic. We doubt it works, but we agree that trading Chad is the best option in this situation given what the Bengals can get for him.
MIAMI -- A Miami judge will not free one of the suspects in the killing of Washington Redskins star Sean Taylo
According to SacBee.com, Lane Kiffin had this to say on his quarterback JaMarcus Russell: "By far he's in the best shape since I've seen him, even if you go back to his pro day at college. So I know he's real excited about the upcoming season as well.”
FFX: If Oakland drafts Darren McFadden with their No. 4 overall pick this weekend, Russell will mature a lot faster than people expect. There are other players that could benefit Russell and that Raiders' passing attack, but McFadden would give the team offensive options that no other player could provide. If the Raiders end up passing on McFadden, we fully expect the Jets to grab him at No. 6 overall.
Dan Radakovich, the assistant head coach at Robert Morris and an assistant coach with the Pittsburgh Steelers' first two Super Bowl-winning teams, is retiring after 48 years as an NFL or college coac
According to IBABuzz.com, Raiders WR Javon Walker (knee) should be ready to go for the team's first mini-camp following this weekend's 2008 NFL Draft.
FFX: It's tough to tell how healthy Walker really is, as many reports surfaced early this off-season suggesting that he still needed more knee surgery. Apparently he does not, but only draft Walker as a WR3 at the current moment. The guy has the talent, it just comes down to health.
According to JSOnline.com, QB Brett Favre appeared on the "Late Show" with David Letterman on Thursday night and was asked how he might feel once mini-camps begin. Favre said: "I wasn't excited about it last year. I think when training camp gets close, I will - something's bound to happen." When Letterman wanted clarification on the response, Favre added: "Butterflies, or - I don't know, something's bound to happen."
FFX: It sounds like Favre was just having fun, but in all seriousness, we truly believe that something is \"bound to happen\" at some point in 2008. Favre has already made it clear that if injury should strike the Packers at the quarterback position, he would consider changing his mind about retiring. This is pure speculation at this point, but we think that fantasy owners are going to see Favre in a Packers\' uniform at some point in \'08.
According to Jason Jones, of Sacbee.com, Raiders RB Michael Bush "is looking good" and "just needs an opportunity." According to the article, when asked if LaMont Jordan would still be a Raider in 2008, Lane Kiffin had this to say: “I don’t know that. LaMont does have a very high contract, and a big number coming into this. So we have to look at what happens in the draft, look at what else is going on and make a decision.”
FFX: While we don't have a ton of faith in Jordan's ability to stay healthy, we do find it strange that no one remembers how good Jordan was at the beginning of the 2008 NFL season. Expect him to get cut after the draft - Hopefully he gets a shot elsewhere to at least compete for carries.
San Francisco offensive lineman David Baas probably will be out until the regular season after tearing his right pectoral muscl
According to JSOnline.com, Packers RB Ryan Grant still has not inked his $370,000 exclusive rights free agent qualifying offer, but the runner does not reportedly expect to hold out of training camp. "I'm not really pressed about anything right now," he said. "I just know at some point it will get done. I'm excited about it and I'm excited for the organization."
FFX: The Packers better step up and lock this guy down. If Green Bay is going to have any success this season, they better run Grant early and often. Grant is definitely worthy of a middle second-round pick in 2008 fantasy drafts, we just have our concerns about Aaron Rodgers.
The Jets traded defensive lineman Dewayne Robertson to the Broncos for an undisclosed draft pick or picks, ESPN.com's Bill Williamson reported Thursda
Roger Goodell is fully prepared to crack down again on the Patriots if his meeting with Matt Walsh uncovers a tape made of the Rams' final walkthrough practice before the 2002 Super Bow
The Cowboys and Titans have reached an agreement on a trade for Pacman Jone
The Dolphins are shopping All-Pro defensive end Jason Taylor in hopes of acquiring another first-round draft pick, according to media reports in South Florida
According to KFFL, the Houston Texans might show interest in free agent RB Shaun Alexander.
FFX: We believe that the Texans would love to attack either Rashard Mendenhall or Jonathan Stewart with their No. 18 overall pick this Saturday, but one of the two will likely be gone by the time the Texans are on the clock. Mendenhall and McFadden are actually both top five overall on our overall draft board, and both are obviously our #1 and #2 running backs in this draft. This is going to be a great year for fantasy football worlds, as this 2008 NFL Draft might deliver two, maybe three, future top 10 fantasy running backs. We actually believe that Mendenhall, if in the right spot, could be a top five overall fantasy talent by his second NFL season.
The Vikings introduced new defensive end Jared Allen on Wednesda
According to John Clayton of ESPN, the Bengals will look at drafting Illinois RB Rashard Mendenhall at No. 9 overall if Sedrick Elllis is already gone.
FFX: We have had Mendenhall going to Cincy at that No. 9 pick for weeks now. Mendy is the perfect fit for that Cincy offense and the selection would instantly make the Bengals a contender. If you haven't already, check out our 2008 NFL Mock Draft, which is updated daily all the way up to Saturday's draft!
According to John Clayton of ESPN, free agent RB Shaun Alexander has told some of his teammates that he might have an opportunity to play in New England or in Indy.
FFX: We haven't heard any news on this, but we believe that teams like Carolina and Oakland will give Alexander some consideration. Both have starting running backs that still have a lot to prove, so Alexander's services could be of some use. From a fantasy perspective, Alexander is far better off in a Carolina or Oakland, assuming neither team selects a big-time rookie this weekend during the NFL Draft. In New England, or Indy, the runner would have absolutely no shot to start. At least with either the Panthers or Raiders, or even in Houston, Alexander could push those current starters for carries and maybe overtake them.
Cleveland Browns tight end Steve Heiden recently underwent surgery to repair a bulging disc in his back and will be out for approxima