May 2010 4for4 Player News Articles

Browns running back Peyton Hillis is out to prove he's the gem of the Brady Quinn trade and not the one-year wonder some folks in Denver thought he was.

"I want to show the coaches they got a big steal," Hillis said during organized team activities last week. "That's just the way I think and work. I feel like I can do just about anything really well, whether it's running or blocking or catching the ball out of the backfield."

Is this the year James Hardy emerges as an impact wide receiver?

Terrell Owens is gone after one overly hyped season. The Bills also declined to re-sign long-time veteran Josh Reed, leaving the offense with a young, unproven corps of receivers behind Lee Evans.

There are a number of candidates for the No. 2 spot, with Steve Johnson, Chad Jackson and rookie Marcus Easley entered in the wide-open competition.

Head coach Chan Gailey said it's way too early to tell who will come out on top. But Hardy, a 2008 second-round draft pick, is expected to be the guy. He is certainly approaching this offseason like the job already belongs to him.

No matter who wins the job they won't be highly sought after in the fantasy world. He may be worth a late pick or could be someone to watch on the waiver wire as every year WRs tend to come out of no where.

One of the misconceptions about receiver Nate Burleson and his role with the Detroit Lions is that he needs to be a downfield threat to help take pressure off fellow receiver Calvin Johnson. Actually, it's just the opposite.

One of Burleson's strengths is getting immediate separation from a cornerback, especially one that is attempting to jam him or knock him off his route at the line of scrimmage. The reason this is crucial for the Lions is because, if opponents run two or three defenders at Johnson, that leaves Burleson one-on-one in most cases. The Lions are hoping that defenses can no longer "walk up'' on the opposite receiver and stuff him at the line, eliminating the outside options for quarterback Matthew Stafford.

At last week's passing camp, wide receiver Donte Stallworth was among a handful of players fielding punts.

Stallworth, perhaps the fastest player on this year's team, hasn't returned a punt in a regular-season game since 2005 with the New Orleans Saints. From 2003 to 2005, he averaged 5.7 yards on 18 punt returns. He broke one for over 20 yards.

It'll be interesting to see if Stallworth is just a backup option or someone who could bring some spark to the Ravens' punt return game.

Of course, incumbent Chris Carr was also returning punts. Last season, Carr finished 18th in the NFL, averaging 8.2 yards per punt.

From all accounts, Vince Young is having the kind of offseason the Tennessee Titans expect.

He's leading by actions and by words. He's putting in extra work. He's handling everything the coaches have given him.

"All of that work, everything that he's doing, is going to allow us to do more," Coach Jeff Fisher said. "... That's why his commitment thus far has been good."

Young seemed to make the whole team better when he became the starter last year, and the threat of RB Chris Johnson seemed to make Young better. It was that kind of chemistry that led the Titans to 8-2 mark after starting out 0-6. He could have some sneaky fantasy value this season as he looks to take that next step.

As he did in last week’s OTA, RB Ronnie Brown participated in all the drills at Friday’s first practice of mini-camp, afterward pronouncing himself “about 80-something” percent healthy.

Brown, who underwent Lisfranc foot surgery after being lost for the season in last year’s Oct. 15 game against Tampa Bay, said his rehab has been a “steady progression” since the offseason workout program began in early March.

“When I first had the injury I didn’t know what to expect as far as a timetable,” he said. “I’m just taking it a day at a time.

During a special teams period Sunday morning, Anthony Fasano headed to the far end zone to work with the Dolphins quarterbacks.

While the other four tight ends, including converted fullback Rolly Lumbala, were grinding through coverage drills, Fasano got to do the thing he did so well in 2008.

Catch touchdown passes.

Tight end is getting to be a deep fantasy position, but it's also unpredictable week-to-week. Keep Fasano in mind as the summer rolls on to see if things open up for him in the end zone again.

Texans coach Gary Kubiak is expecting fourth-year WR Jacoby Jones to compete with Kevin Walter for a starting job this season.

“Whatever their plans are, I know it'll be big and it'll be fun,” Jones said.

Jones has been one of the Texans' bright spots during the first two weeks of organized team activities. This time last year, he timidly dropped passes and often looked confused during practice. Jones said he would blame his mistakes on teammates. He almost constantly wore a face of frustration, and he said he knew it was hampering his ability.

Jones would certainly add some depth to your fantasy roster. He had just 437 yards receiving last year, but also had 6 TDs.

Chicago LB Brian Urlacher, whose 2009 season ended after an injury in Chicago's opening game against Green Bay, feels confident his 2010 season won't be disrupted by health issues. The veteran linebacker is eager to get back on the field.

"Last year was disappointing because I felt like I had a good offseason and then I was out for the year," Urlacher said. "So to sit back and watch all season was really frustrating. But it was good to be back in minicamp. Normally, I dread this time of year. This time, I couldn't wait to get out there and run around with my teammates."

If Urlacher stays healthy and Julius Peppers makes the impact many feel he can, Chicago's defense will be one to own in fantasy leagues. We have them at number 10 in our first round of cheat sheets. Urlacher might be past the point where he is a major factor in IDP leagues, but he can still be useful if he avoids the injury bug.

The arrival of Brandon Marshall has generated a lot of buzz down in Miami, but the identity of the starter opposite Marshall has yet to be determined. Three players who have done some good things in the past for the Dolphins are Davone Bess, Greg Camarillo, and Brian Hartline.

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel that Bess is primarily working in the slot while Camarillo and Hartline serve as the starters in minicamp. But Dolphins head coach Tony Sparano said the “next best guy” will line up as the starter opposite Brandon Marshall, which seems to indicate Bess could win the job.

Marshall will likely be the only Miami wide receiver who makes a major impact, but Bess can be useful at times, especially in a PPR format. Still, he's ranked #65 in our most recent cheat sheets. Hartline is #69 and Camarillo is unranked. Bess and Hartline are worth watching, especially if young quarterback Chad Henne continues to improve, but neither are worth anything more than late-round flyers in pretty much every format.

Rookie Koa Misi is lining up as a starter at outside linebacker at minicamp for the Dolphins, according to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. The paper reports the other starter is Charlie Anderson, with Cameron Wake playing with the starters in nickel and dime packages.

Misi and Wake are guys to watch in IDP leagues, as both could have a chance at leading Miami in sacks.

With the emergence of Chad Henne as Miami's starting quarterback, former starter Chad Pennington is taking on the role of mentor while he rehabs a shoulder injury. And Pennington is fine with that.

“I’m actually really OK with that,” Pennington said. "I know what we’re trying to get accomplished here as a team. I appreciate that perspective to where I don’t have to throw myself in the fire in May."

Pennington is hoping his shoulder will be in good shape when training camp rolls around. Right now, Miami head coach Tony Sparano is aiming to limit him to 40-55 passes per practice.

"Things really get heated up in August and that’s when I want to be at my best," Pennington said. "It would be crazy for us to come out here and do something to jeopardize that."

Pennington has never been an elite fantasy quarterback and no longer warrants a place on fantasy rosters.

San Diego fans and fantasy players had reason to be concerned when news surfaced that star TE Antonio Gates visited a North Carolina foot specialist he's visited before, but Gates has offered assurance that he's doing good. He was diagnosed with a slight case of plantar fasciitis, and said the foot that was giving him a little trouble was his right foot, not the left foot that has bothered him in the past.

"Just taking precautionary action because of the struggles in the past and all the things I have been through," Gates said. "It never was a major problem; it was something I wanted to make sure wasn't any worse."

Gates is 4for4's number two tight end in our most recently published cheat sheets. All signs point to another good season for Gates.

Panthers WR Brandon LaFell, the third-round draft pick is the heir apparent to Muhsin Muhammad to start alongside Steve L Smith. Dwayne Jarrett might still be listed first team on the depth chart, but LaFell is clearly the man to watch.

He has outstanding natural ability and was a standout downfield blocker in college, which is a requirement for whoever plays the position in Carolina's run-first offense.

Having nearly a month to work on his trade gives LaFell the opportunity to make a claim for the position.

According to the Colorado Springs Gazette, Eddie Royal and Jabar Gaffney are lining up as the starters at wide receiver for the Broncos.

Neither player cracked the Top 50 of 4for4's first round of cheat sheets that were published earlier this week. Royal was a bust last season and while Gaffney knows the system and produces an occasional moment of glory, you are going to be hurting if you have to rely on either one of them on a regular basis. Overall, with chaos at quarterback and unremarkable receivers, Denver projects to be a lousy fantasy team this season, aside from running back Knowshon Moreno.

LenDale White likely will face a four-game suspension for violating the NFL's drug policy, a league source told NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora on Friday, although that wasn't the main reason the Seattle Seahawks surprisingly released the running back earlier in the day.

Seahawks officials wouldn't confirm or comment on the matter, but league sources said White has been going through the process of facing the suspension, according to La Canfora.

League sources indicated to La Canfora that the Seahawks were aware of the probable suspension when they acquired White from the Tennessee Titans last month in a draft-weekend trade. White's failure to curb his tendency for being difficult to coach -- not showing up on time, not fully buying in, not endearing himself to the team, having a sense of entitlement -- was more at the core of why he was released, according to sources.

Should White, a four-year NFL veteran, sign with another team, his likely suspension still would be in play.

With Lendale White now out in Seattle, Justin Forsett should be in line for a workload increase. This also signals that Julius Jones may not be on his way out the door. Newly acquired Leon Washington, and 3rd year back Louis Rankin are also in the mix.

LenDale White, acquired in a draft-day trade from Tennessee, was waived on Friday in a surprising move by the NFL club.

"It became apparent at this time that LenDale was not ready to be a member of the Seattle Seahawks," general manager John Schneider said in a statement. "It just did not appear to be the right fit at this point in our program. We wish LenDale all the best with his future."

Huge news here. Not that LenDale White is a top 5 Running Back but clearly new policies have been set by the new Seattle regime. Stay tuned for more details.

Ronnie Brown participated in all the running back drills at Friday’s first practice of mini-camp, afterward pronouncing himself “about 80-something” percent healthy.

Brown, who underwent Lisfranc foot surgery after being lost for the season in last year’s Oct. 15 game against Tampa Bay, said his rehab has been a “steady progression” since the offseason workout program began in early March.

Having Brown at 80% at this time of the year is perfect. With the Dolphins expecting to open up the passing game, so should the running lanes. Brown is a top 20 RB and should be drafted early (barring any setback).

Wide receiver Patrick Crayton, who doesn't believe the Dallas Cowboys plan to keep him on the roster this season, said Friday the team is "messing with people's careers and people's lives" and that he wants to be released immediately.

Crayton, who has not participated in voluntary workouts this offseason, said during an appearance on ESPN 103.3's Ben and Skin Show that he is concerned that the Cowboys will keep him as insurance and cut him after training camp. Crayton wants a chance to join another team as soon as possible, which he said agent Fred Lyles frequently tells the Cowboys.

Although the Cowboys still value Crayton, there's no clear role for him in the offense. There has been talk about a possible trade to Kansas City but nothing has developed. Stay tuned.

Flozell Adams visited the Broncos recently, and the free agent tackle continues to talk with several teams.

Added as a minor note to article about Jaguars Guard Justin Smiley, David Garrard appears entrenched in the quarterback job. Luke McCown doesn't seem to be pushing him.

Albeit, very early in the offseason, this bit of news gives fantasy GMs an early look at the QB battle in Jacksonville.

Denver Broncos Rookie WR Demaryius Thomas' recovery has taken longer than hoped. When he first suffered the injury (broken foot), Thomas' agent, Todd France, told SI.com that "Demaryius will be 100 percent by the time OTA's [organized team activity] begin."

But when Broncos rookies gathered for their first camp in late April, Thomas said he didn't think he would be ready until June.

Regardless of Thomas' latest twitter reports, Broncos coach Josh McDaniels indicated training camp, which begins the final week of July, would be the target date for all his players recovering from foot injuries.

There is no sugar-coating this news. Wide Receivers in the NFL have one of the toughest learning curves. The Broncos have lofty expectations for Demaryius Thomas. This set-back will hinder his fantasy potential to start the 2010 season.

Ray Rice accelerated into the end zone and didn't break stride until he left the ground, leaping into the air to dunk the football over the crossbar.

The Baltimore Ravens' star running back wasn't acting like it was a routine passing camp or like someone who recently had his wisdom teeth removed.

"It's all about having fun," Rice said. "You've got to have some spunk in practice. This is what it's all about. This is where my season was made last year, in minicamps, being here in the offseason. It's definitely been beneficial."

Last season, Rice used the offseason to emerge as a Pro Bowl runner as he developed into one of the top all-purpose threats in the game.

Rice rushed for 1,339 yards and caught 78 passes, piling up 2,104 yards from scrimmage to rank second in the NFL behind Tennessee Titans runner Chris Johnson.

Now, Rice is making a push for another big season. He's been in Baltimore ever since the season ended, reporting at a solid 210 pounds.

Look for Ray Rice to improve upon his outstanding 2009 campaign. Another year of maturity for QB Joe Flacco and added weapons like Anquan Boldin and Donte' Stallworth will alleviate increased pressure from opposing defenses! Ray Rice is currently ranked #3 in 4for4.com RB Cheat Sheet.

The Oakland Raiders confirmed Thursday that they have filed a grievance seeking to recoup money from former quarterback JaMarcus Russell.

A source with knowledge of the situation told NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora the team wants roughly $9.5 million.

Russell's agent, Eric Metz, didn't immediately return an e-mail from The Associated Press. He earlier told Yahoo! Sports, which first reported the story, that: "The money in question was fully guaranteed. That is why JaMarcus was forced to hold out and miss all of training camp as a rookie. The Raiders know that, and this is our only comment."

According to La Canfora, one source dubbed the potential ruling in the case as "50/50," depending on the interpretation of some language in Russell's contract. Russell was paid salary advances for the 2010, 2011 and 2012 seasons.

Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Henne has a strong arm and is excited about the team's plans to take shots down the field.

"We're going to take chances down the field -- no doubt about it," said Henne. "That's one of the things we implemented this offseason. We're definitely going to try to get some big plays."

Henne also said having a guy like Brandon Marshall will not only stretch defenses, but will free things up for Davone Bess, Brian Hartline
and Greg Camarillo.

"We did need that big-time receiver," Henne said. "But [the other receivers] are all excited that Brandon is here because we could get double-coverage on Brandon and single-coverage on the other guys. So they're excited for the opportunity to get some more balls thrown their way.

"Brandon Marshall has been working real hard. He's taking all the young guys under his wing and studying with them and teaching them how to run the routes, how to beat man coverage, how to get off the line of scrimmage. He's been tremendous."

Chad Henne possesses all the tools to be a big time QB in the NFL. At 6-3/230, he threw for over 2800 yards and 12 TDs in 2009. However, he must lower his INT ratio (14 in 2009). The acquisition of WR Brandon Marshall has many fantasy GMs believing that "Santa Claus is REAL" and this season will pay dividends!

News on TE Antonio Gates: no news, which is good news. Foot problem not serious. He's expected at minicamp by tomorrow, though likely not practice

Commissioner Goodell has advised Steelers and QB Ben Roethlisbeger that he is cleared to return to team activities next week.

For all the talk of a four-way quarterback competition, veterans Kyle Orton and Brady Quinn continue to get the most work at the position through the team's second voluntary passing camp.

Today, in the final practice of a four-day camp, Orton took all of the first-team repetitions, followed by Quinn. Rookie Tim Tebow and second-year player Tom Brandstater were almost completely shut out of live drills against Denver's defense.

"Kyle is definitely getting the most, and he deserves to, there is no doubt about that," head coach Josh McDaniels said. "Brady goes in there next, and then we've been flopping them all. The only thing that's really consistent is that Kyle is in the first huddle."

Buffalo Bills running back Marshawn Lynch made it a clean sweep.

Bills running back Marshawn Lynch (23) has not shown up to voluntary OTAs. Teammate RB Fred Jackson (22) thinks attendence puts him in, "the best situation possible." The first set of organized team activities under new head coach Chan Gailey ended Thursday afternoon, and Lynch was absent again despite big talk he was ready to prove his worth to the team.

Wide receiver Brandon Stokley was held out of Thursday's passing camp practice by the Denver Broncos, the latest workout he's missed because of a shoulder injury.

Coach Josh McDaniels says Stokley has missed several of the team's spring practices since falling on his shoulder during a recent workout.

There's a feeling around the Jets that it's only a matter of time before the team signs free-agent QB Mark Brunell, most recently of the New Orleans Saints.

By rule, they can't sign Brunell now because of the so-called "Final Eight" rules. To add him now, they'd have to lose an unrestricted free agent, and it doesn't look like that's going to happen anytime soon. Therefore, they will have to wait until July 22, when the restriction is lifted.

New Orleans Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey is "doing fine" and recovering at Ochsner from what doctors diagnosed as a seizure, according to teammate Darren Sharper.

Sharper was one of a handful of teammates and staff who visited Shockey after he was taken away by ambulance after suffering seizure-like symptoms in the team's weight room Thursday afternoon following a morning practice.

The Raiders appear to have improved substantially in the passing game with the departure of QB JaMarcus Russell and the addition of offensive coordinator Hue Jackson, with a byproduct being the development of second-year wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey.

Heyward-Bey was a standout at the Raiders' practice Wednesday in Alameda, catching everything thrown his way, smoothly accelerating out of breaks and turning upfield after securing the ball. A spin move he put on Nnamdi Asomugha after making a catch left the All-Pro cornerback with nothing but air.

For a day, anyway, Heyward-Bey's performance resembled one befitting the No. 7 overall pick in the 2009 draft.

The Seahawks continues to be impressed with the play of receiver Mike Williams. GM John Schneider said Williams is in great shape, and provides a big target with good ball skills. If he continues to progress, Schneider said to expect some exciting things from him this season.

Schneider did not close the book on the team pursuing veteran wide receiver Terrell Owens, but he did say that the team probably would not move in that direction unless “something drastic happens.”

Seattle GM John Schneider said he likes the Seattle Seahawks overall depth at running back, with Julius Jones, Justin Forsett, LenDale White, Leon Washington and Quinton Ganther all competing for time. Schneider did not rule out the possibility of all five runners making the roster, and said Ganther with his versatility could play some fullback. Schneider also did not rule out the possibility of Washington starting training camp on the PUP list.

Something will most likely have to give here, even if Ganther plays fullback. Forsett played well when Julius Jones was injured and should be a candidate to start. Washington is probably more of a third down back and a pass catcher.

It appears rookie quarterback Tim Tebow has passed second-year QB Tom Brandstater on the Broncos depth chart.

Tebow was the third quarterback in during the first and second offensive play series of the Broncos’ organized training activity Thursday. Returning starter Kyle Orton took plenty of reps with the No. 1 unit and Brady Quinn got his reps at No. 2.

And then Tebow went in next, followed by Brandstater. Although Brandstater was third in on individual quarterback drills, it was definitely Tebow at No. 3 during the team drills.

Chargers QB Philip Rivers’ primary, secondary and tertiary targets were marked absent. His blindside blocker was also indisposed.

The Chargers’ $92 million quarterback reported to minicamp Wednesday without his top three receivers, without his Pro Bowl left tackle and without any symptoms of the stress that so easily afflicts his fans.

“It’s May,” Rivers said, simply. “That’s my level of apprehension.”

At One Nova-Care Way in Philly, wide receiver DeSean Jackson is in pretty much the same boat as Titans RB Chris Johnson. Like Johnson, the 2008 second-round pick clearly has outplayed his 4-year, $3.47 million rookie contract and is looking for an extension. Even hired The Extension King, Drew Rosenhaus, late last year, to help him.

But Jackson is facing the same difficult uncapped-year roadblock as Johnson: the 30 percent rule, which limits the year-to-year salary increases a player can receive in an extension.

While Jackson and Johnson are in the same boat, the two players have chosen two very different ways to deal with their current dilemmas. Jackson has dealt with his situation much more maturely. Just 2 years after falling into the middle of the second round of the draft because of character and work-ethic questions, the Pro Bowl wide receiver is rapidly developing into one of the locker-room leaders of a young Eagles team that has just one non-kicker over the age of 29 on its roster.

Jackson seems like no threat to hold out, and given the Eagles have dumped a load of money this offseason, he's eventually going to get paid. Jackson emerged into a top, big-play fantasy receiver last year. That shouldn't change this season, even with Kevin Kolb now the QB.

For those wondering, Jets QB Mark Sanchez NOT wearing a knee brace. A good sign for him.

Dallas WR Roy Williams has gone from celebrated returning son to a guy who looks almost as if he has forgotten how to play – so much so that the final judgment of Williams’ career may rest on his ability to turn things around this year.

“It’s been a nightmare,” said the native of Odessa, Texas. “That’s the truth. I’m not going to hide from it. I understand the business. … I thought this was going to be a dream. It’s been a nightmare.”

Williams came to the Cowboys in a celebrated deadline trade in 2008, fetching a nice ransom by today’s standards both for Detroit (the Lions got first-, third- and sixth-round picks from the Cowboys in exchange for Williams and a seventh-rounder) and Williams (he got $27 million guaranteed as part of a six-year, $54 million deal).

Instead, the Cowboys went nowhere that season and Williams has produced journeyman numbers. In 25 games with Dallas, Williams has 57 catches for 794 yards and eight touchdowns.

Only time will tell if it's too-little, too-late for Williams. With Dez Bryant and Austin Miles poised to eventually be the starters, Williams could be on the outside looking in. In the fantasy world, Williams' value seems to be trending down while Bryant's is on the up.

Browns running back Jerome Harrison, who rushed for 561 yards in the final three games of last season, has been participating in organized team activities this week despite not signing his one-year tender yet.

The article mentions Harrison as a part of a "good one-two punch" with rookie second round pick Montario Hardesty, so it looks like another committee situation here. Still, with the way Harrison ended 2009, he may get more carries early on in the season. He could still have RB3 or flex value the way things look now.

Eagles QB Kevin Kolb's practice demeanor as the starter has been notable for a few reasons.

For one, it stands polar to the way Donovan McNabb conducted himself on the Eagles practice field for over a decade. McNabb was loosey goosey. He smiled a lot. Liked to joke around with his teammates. If he was errant on a pass he would react and motion and yell, but he did it all with a laugh and a grin. Kolb just grits his teeth and stares.

Much could made of this, especially considering how McNabb was often criticized for his mannerisms. The point here isn't to say that one way is better than the other. It's just an observation. McNabb and Kolb have, in many ways, completely different personalities -- both on the field and off.

Right now, there doesn't look to be much of an expected drop in production between McNabb and Kolb, fantasy-wise. Kolb is considered a lot more accurate, but doesn't throw the deep ball as well as Donovan - at least yet. Kolb has a ton of talent to work with, so there doesn't look like a whole lot of reason to shy away from Eagles in this summer's drafts.

According to the Giants RB Andre Brown (Achilles) was on the field for the start of the OTAs last week. Brown, however, was “limited” according to Tom Coughlin.

Also on the field, according to the Giants, were RB Brandon Jacobs (knee surgery), DE Justin Tuck (shoulder), FB Madison Hedgecock (shoulder), C Shaun O’Hara (elbow), G Rich Seubert (shoulder), WR Mario Manningham (shoulder) and LB Gerris Wilkinson (wrist).

Not on the field, according to the team, were S Kenny Phillips (knee), RB Ahmad Bradshaw (feet, ankle), WR Hakeem Nicks (wrist, toe), and DT Rocky Bernard (shoulder). Also missing was S Michael Johnson, who sat out with a quad strain. The Giants said that Bradshaw and Nicks are expected back by the end of the month.

Giants RBs were kind of a fantasy mess last year. Jacobs underachieved after there were big expectations on him, and it was Ahmad Bradshaw who often got goal line TDs. You never know what to expect but it should still be worth owning both of these guys this season.

The NFL’s most prolific passing duo - Randy Moss and Wes Welker - may begin 2010 apart, as Welker battles to recover from his own knee surgery. That leaves a hole in the passing offense, one that second-year receiver Julian Edelman can’t fill by himself.

In addition, some offensive inconsistency in 2009 can be attributed to the inability to find a capable third receiver, with flameouts such as Greg Lewis and Joey Galloway as the glaring examples.

WR Brandon Tate is a strong candidate to adopt the role in 2010, provided he can leap over veterans Torry Holt and David Patten and rookie Taylor Price. It doesn’t hurt that Tate is as healthy as he’s been since before Oct. 12, 2008, when his UNC career ended.

This would skyrocket Tate's fantasy value, at least from what it was. With Moss and a healthy Welker, how much will Tate see the ball, though? The potential would be there if he's earns the spot, and Tate could have some value on your roster.

WR Torry Holt has built a reputation as a teacher during his 11-year NFL career. Don’t expect that to change now that the 33-year-old is battling for a job with the same young players he’s tutoring.

“That’s what it’s all about,” Holt said after yesterday’s workout. “That’s the beauty of sports - competing. We do a lot as athletes to . . . give ourselves a chance to compete. A lot of young guys, a lot of veteran guys, a lot of guys who are proven. But the environment is still competitive, and that’s all you can ask for.”

Holt came to the Patriots [team stats] with a Super Bowl ring earned during a long tenure in St. Louis. He also spent a productive season with the Jacksonville Jaguars [team stats]. Thus far with the Pats, Holt has made it a priority to learn from his new teammates.

Holt might not have the speed he once boasted, but he believes he still can contribute.

Holt may not even last long with the Pats, much like Joey Galloaway last year. But if he makes the team he may have some value, especially if Wes Welker can't start the season.

Redskins Coach Mike Shanahan said Wednesday that free agent running back Brian Westbrook has not determined where he will play, although Washington remains a possibility. It could help the Redskins that brother Byron Westbrook plays for Washington.

"I'm trying to talk to his brother a little bit, trying to get in good with him," Shanahan said. "I'm not sure it's helped a whole lot, but I'll keep on trying."

Shanahan added that Westbrook provides a specific value on third downs with his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield and block.

The Skins already have Clinton Portis, Larry Johnson and Willie Parker, so not sure why they have so much interest in another broken down RB. It looks like Westy would only have third-down snaps, which doesn't give him a lot of fantasy value. This is a situation that needs to be figured out anyway, adding BWest only makes things more complicated.

Placekicker Nate Kaeding kicked for the first time since injuring his groin at the Pro Bowl in February. Said Kaeding: “It was encouraging.”

Good to see. Kaeding should be one of the top kickers selected in your draft.

Quarterback Jason Campbell received the bulk of the work among the quarterbacks, and although Cable calls the position a "competition," Campbell's workload and performance seem to make his ascension to the starting job a foregone conclusion.

Not really shocking news, but the Raiders probably felt like they owed soon-to-be-backup Bruce Gradkowski some props for leading the team to some upset wins last year by calling it a competition. Campbell has a shot to be drafted and be a backup QB in your fantasy league.

Redskins WR Santana Moss is one of three current or former NFL players who spoke with investigators who eventually charged Galea with drug smuggling, conspiracy, lying to federal agents, unlawful distribution of HGH and bringing an unapproved drug into interstate commerce. He is also not licensed to work in the United States.

Moss met with Redskins coach Mike Shanahan before practice, and Shanahan said the team doesn’t expect a suspension. If the league discovers Moss is guilty of taking HGH, he could be banned for as many as four games.

“I talked to Santana and went through a bunch of situations that have happened to him,” he said. “I feel very good about where he’s at. I feel very good that he will be [cleared] when people find out the facts and everything will be OK.”

With the addition of Donovan McNabb, Moss could be in for a career year. However, he must clear his name if innocent. Although Shanahan is taking the high road of backing his players, he's also the type of coach who wouldn't drag the team's name through the mud.

Antonio Gates was in North Carolina today to have his foot checked out by a specialist, according to Bill Johnston of the Chargers' official site.

Gates had a fantastic 2009 season. Monitor this situation closely as to avoid any injury surprise. Gates is currently ranked #2 on the 4for4 TE Cheat Sheets.

Darrius Heyward-Bey reportedly enjoyed his best practice in a Raiders uniform during Wednesday's OTA workout.

Many first year wide receivers struggle as they adjust to the NFL. That was the case for Heyward-Bey last season. This news is a step in the right direction. Heyward-Bey is ranked 84th in the 4for4 WR Cheat Sheets.

Chad Ochocinco revealed that he was recently injured while lifting weights, and couldn't perform for the season finale of Dancing with the Stars.

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that the injury "is not believed to be serious," citing Bengals sources. Ochocinco should be fine for June 15-17 minicamp.

Troy Smith has been the Ravens' primary backup for the past two seasons, but the former Heisman Trophy winner isn't guaranteed that spot this season according to Jamison Hensley of the Baltimore Sun.

Smith and John Beck will be battling all summer to become the No. 2 quarterback behind Joe Flacco.

"John and Troy know they’re competing," offensive coordinator Cam Cameron said. "They’re good friends. They’re workers. That’s the way it is. I’m looking forward to training camp."

“I think it’s a tremendous situation for both of us, having an understanding that competition is going to get us – everybody on the field – to be their best," Smith said. "John is one of my great friends, and Joe is a great friend of mine, too. We have an understanding. We know what our niche is here, and everybody is fitting in, having fun.”

This news is important for GMs that participate in fantasy leagues of 12-14+. Depth is always a concern especially if you have Flacco as your #1 QB and choose to build up other positions.

Texans coach Gary Kubiak revealed after OTA practice Wednesday that Owen Daniels (ACL surgery) might sit out all 11-on-11 drills training camp.

The Texans are taking a very conservative approach w/ TE Owen Daniels. This is good news. They know Daniels is on the right track but want him ready for the season. Daniels is a reception monster and a key component in the success of WR Andre Johnson.

According to Mike Preston of the Baltimore Sun, Donte Stallworth's legs "look really fresh" He looks as fast as advertised by the Ravens when they signed him.

Stallworth is coming off a year out of football but does not appear to have lost any of his shills. The Ravens plan to use him as a situational deep threat behind Anquan Boldin and Derrick Mason.

Look for Stallworth to stretch the field on deep routes. With Boldin and Ray Rice as middle and short range threats, Flacco may connect w/ Stallworth on TD routes.

Tennessee Titans tight end Bo Scaife has skipped most voluntary workouts since signing his franchise tender, leading some to conclude that he's not happy because he doesn't have a long-term contract. But Scaife says that's not the case.

"I love the Titans and my teammates," Scaife said after reporting to the offseason program on Tuesday. "There are no hard feelings. I am glad to be back."

Scaife would prefer a longer deal than the one-year, $4.9 million franchise tender, but he says that isn't going to affect the way he plays in 2010.

"Regardless of everything, I am going to do my job," Scaife said. "I am preparing for the best season of my career.''

Titans management want to see another year of production before giving Scaife a long term deal. This is a perfect fantasy scenario because the player is now motivated by money. Assuming Vince Young continues his progression, TE Scaife could be a nice (and inexpensive)surprise.

The National Football Post reports that Mark Clayton practiced without restrictions after undergoing a a shoulder scope last month.

Clayton was once a promissing wide receiver in the NFL. However, he never developed into a consistent threat. With the additions of Donte' Stallworth, Anquan Boldin and resigning of Derrick Mason, Clayton is way down the depth chart. Barring injury, he will have zero fantasy value.

Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams says he's not "upset or aggravated or anything like that" about the Carolina Panthers allowing him to enter the final year of his contract without a lucrative extension despite two stellar seasons according to Charles Chandler of the Charlotte Observer.

"I'm in no shape, form or fashion upset with anybody because I haven't gotten a new deal," Williams said after a morning practice Tuesday, the second day of the Panthers' organized team activities. "I just know at the end of this fifth year, somebody's got to make some decisions."

Williams, a 2006 first-round draft pick, has rushed for 2,632 yards and scored 27 touchdowns the past two seasons, emerging as one of the NFL's elite running backs.

He is one of several young stars the Panthers have said they want to keep long-term - including linebackers Jon Beason and Thomas Davis, and center Ryan Kalil - but to whom they haven't given contract extensions.

Spoken like a true professional. The upside could be really high for Williams if he does not receive a contract extenstion. In other words, he's playing for money this season! That usually tends to motivate players!

Anquan Boldin, the Ravens' new wide receiver, was among a handful of no-shows at voluntary passing camp Tuesday according to Jamison Hensely of the Baltimore Sun. Others who skipped the workout were: linebackers Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs; defensive ends Cory Redding and Trevor Pryce; and running back Willis McGahee.

Although Boldin is a veteran 8 years over, this writer finds it disturbing that he would not commit to time w/ new teammates, new offense, new coaches after receiving a $28.5 million contract extenstion. Given Boldin's injury history, we could only hope his workout regiment remains strong.

IRVING, Texas -- Dallas Cowboys owner/general manager Jerry Jones, who has publicly questioned whether Marion Barber would be better returning to a reserve role, indicated Tuesday that he sees no reason for the running back's role to change.

Jones had previously stated the concern that using Barber as a starter might limit his effectiveness at the end of games. Jones said in March that the Cowboys were considering making Felix Jones the starter.

However, Jones strongly hinted Tuesday that Barber's starting job is secure.

"I know this: He looks quicker," Jones said at the NFL owners' meetings. "He's just in great shape. ... You could easily go from there and look at what his role might be, and it'd certainly be on par with anything he's done."

It's always interesting in Dallas. Just as many fantasy GMs were beginning to contemplate Felix Jones as the Dallas Bell Cow, Jerry Jones begins the mind games. I smell a training camp battle!

Mark Gaughan of the Buffalo News reports Trent Edwards worked with the first offensive unit throughout the first day of spring practice Tuesday for the Buffalo BIlls. Edwards took the first snaps in all the sessions of the workout. Ryan Fitzpatrick followed Edwards. Brian Brohm got the third chance and rookie Levi Brown was the fourth QB in the mix. That's expected to rotate throughout the spring. Nevertheless, Edwards was the first to be first and got some more repetitions than the other QBs.

Well, somebody has to be the #1 QB in Buffalo. Let's be clear, there's no sleeper alert on this one. If Buffalo doesn't improve from last season, there'll be little fantasy value in the receiving corps and under center.

Eddie Royal is spending most of his time working out of the slot this offseason, as coach Josh McDaniels concentrates on increasing his offensive role.

With the departure of Brandon Marshall, many are hoping for Royal to build off his 2008 (not 2009) season where he compiled 91 receptions for 980 yards and 5TDs.

The Texans' coaching staff says Dan Orlovsky has demonstrated overall improvement, and is firmly entrenched as their No. 2 QB.

In larger fantasy leagues (12+), this piece of news is very valuable given Matt Schaub's expected level of play AND injury history.

According to the Associated Press, Leon Washington's compound leg fracture "may have him out into training camp."

Although compensation was low (5th Rd) for Washington, Seattle expects to have his services for start of the 2010 season. If this is not the case, look for a heavy dose of Lendale "from Glendale" White.

Nick Scurfield of houstontexans.com reports that Arian Foster has been the first-string tailback during OTAs.

At this time last year, Arian Foster was an undrafted rookie free agent trying to make it in the NFL.

Fast forward to 2010, and Foster, who ran for 226 yards and three touchdowns over the final two games last season, has been running with the Texans' first-team offense during OTAs.

"It's always good; that means the coaches think highly of you," he said. "I'm trying to come out here every day and work like it was just like last year: Just trying to just make the roster."

Foster (6-1, 229) said that he's physically more toned, quicker and faster this offseason. With a year under his belt, he also said the game is starting to slow down for him.

"Really, the sky's the limit, man," Foster said of his expectations for the upcoming season. "I've just got to keep my head down and go to work every day like it's my first day out here. That's the mindset I'm going to keep the entire year: If they give me an opportunity, I'm going to take advantage of it

As discussed here, a running back training camp battle is on the horizon in Houston. Expect Foster, Steve Slaton and 2010 rookie Ben Tate to all be in the mix going into camp. I think its safe to assume that barring injury, running back by committee is in the Texans future. Fantasy nightmare!

Matt Hasselback and Pete Carroll like what they have seen of Golden Tate despite bonehead blunders. Seattle Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck hit rookie receiver Golden Tate on a pass during today's practice on a play that looked great -- except that Tate didn't run the play that was called.

"He ran the absolute wrong route," Hasselbeck said. "But he was open, and I threw it to him and he made a great play. So in a lot of ways, you can just tell his head is swimming."

Tate was one of the best receivers in college football at Notre Dame, and as the Seahawks' second-round draft pick, he's being counted on not only to make plays, but to run the right play. Tate knows that OTAs are more about getting up to speed mentally than showing off his physical skills.

"I'm just trying to learn," Tate said. "I know that I can play ball, I'm just trying to learn it and play fast. Once I learn it, I can play faster and understand what's going on a little better. The thing is, when you don't know what you're doing you play unsure."

The first few mini-camps will be tough on any rookie. Although Tate is performing, he will struggle until he comprehends the playbook. Even with his miscues, there has already been talk of Tate turning into Seattle's #1 WR. From the offseason chatter, Tate is pure gold in dynasty leagues.

In his second OTA, we take a more subdued approach to Dallas WR Dez Bryant. Let's just say he had another good day of practice.

"Every day gets easier and easier,'' Bryant said. "I feel comfortable. I get along with the guys very well.

It's only May, but the talk of Bryant looking good and WR Roy Williams still wanting to be a starter has already been brought up a few times. Seems like it's only a matter of time before Bryant is starting along side of WR Austin Miles. Even so, Bryant has so much more upside at this point that he has to be drafted ahead of Williams.

WR Roy Williams is running with the first team offense. Is that news?

Whoever it is [that gets the number-three running back job for the San Diego Chargers] (early thinking is RB Shawnbrey McNeal) will almost certainly be inactive on game days ... Don't forget that Michael Tolbert can (and will) run the ball a fair amount.

WR Santana Moss (knee) working full in OTAs Monday.

We hear the Dolphins were contacted to gauge their interest in Cowboys WR Patrick Crayton but were noncommittal. Crayton, who was given permission to seek a trade and has a history with this Dolphins regime, ranked eighth in the NFL in yards per catch and ninth in punt returns in '09. Acquiring him would make sense if one of Miami's top four receivers has a significant injury this summer and if Dallas accepts little in return or cuts him from a deal worth $2 million in 2010.

Before his rookie season Bills RB Marshawn Lynch signed his name to a five-year contract worth a reported $19 million, and he intends to honor it, despite having experienced unhappiness playing for the Bills.

After requesting a trade in April, Lynch thought he might be moved during the NFL draft. According to a league source, the Seattle Seahawks and Houston Texans made overtures but didn’t offer more than a third-round pick, and Buffalo wouldn’t bite.

The selection of RB C.J. Spiller seems to leave Lynch third on new coach Chan Gailey’s depth chart, but the 5-foot-11, 215-pound former Cal star insists he doesn’t view it that way. Spiller, an undersized breakaway threat, isn’t likely to be deployed as a traditional, every-down halfback. RB Fred Jackson, a fourth-year player who gained 1,062 yards in ’09, may not be a clear-cut choice to assume that role under the new regime. As one person familiar with the organization’s thinking said recently, “Chan is cooking up creative ways to use all three.”

Said Lynch: “I never feel like a ‘3.’ I’m always going to be a ‘1’ in my mind, regardless of how the situation plays out. I feel great going back. If I would have gotten traded, it would have been something different … but that’s not the case. It’s not about ‘what ifs.’ I’ve got to be realistic.”

It looks like all three backs will be used in different ways, however that's never a good fantasy situation. Chances are all three will be limited in value and low on your roster and only can be used in certain matchups. Hopefully the situation is a little more clear by August draft time.

Last season RB Steve Slaton was slowed by a neck injury that forced him to sit out the final month of the season. He finished with 437 yards and three TDs rushing and 44 receptions for 417 yards with four scores.

Slaton participated in the Texans' first round of organized team activities this past week. He is awaiting clearance by doctors next month to participate in July's full-contact training camp.

"It's doing well,'' he said of his neck, which required surgery. "I participated in OTAs and I'm just waiting 'til June to get cleared. I think it's going to go well. Everything is right on track for me to be ready for camp.''

Last year considered one of the top backs to draft, Slaton will now be in a training camp battle with RBs Arian Foster and Ryan Moats to be the 2010 starter. Monitor how he progresses and hopefully this isn't another dreaded committee situation.

Bernard Scott did revive the unit with a 31.5 yard average on 16 returns, including the 96-yard touchdown in Pittsburgh, the question remains though is if he can return kicks and also carry the ball 8-10 times a game over the course of a full season. WR Andre Caldwell had 29 returns but averaged only 18.6 yards and had two key fumbles. It’s hard to see him being back there again. Strengthening Quan Cosby’s case for staying on the roster is that he can return both punts and kicks.

QB Brett Favre has yet to inform the Vikings whether he will return in 2010, but his actions have made it clear he has every intention of playing a 20th NFL season.

The quarterback underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left ankle Friday in Florida to clean up scar tissue and other elements of the joint to allow for a better range of motion. ESPN reported that noted surgeon James Andrews performed the procedure at the Andrews Institute in Gulf Breeze. Andrews repaired the partially torn biceps in Favre's throwing arm last spring.

Hard to believe the Vikings, a team one step away from the Super Bowl last year, still don't have any idea if Favre is returning. Some sort of communication between Brett and the team had to be arranged so Minny would have some direction at the position at this point in their offseason. Prepare to add Favre to the bottom half of the top-10 in your QB rankings this summer...

At least one Titan who's been missing in action so far this offseason is expected to return in the coming days — TE Bo Scaife.

Scaife hasn't yet taken part in the team's offseason workout program, and he missed the first six organized team activities after signing his one-year tender worth $4.9 million in March.

But indications are Scaife will take part in the team's next minicamp this week, scheduled for Tuesday and Thursday. The Titans will also continue their offseason program on Monday.

FB Jason McKie, released by the Chicago Bears on March 16, will sign a free agent contract with the defending Super Bowl champions, according to a source familiar with the situation.

The job of starting Bills quarterback is an open competition and head coach Chan Gailey even stated that rookie seventh-round pick Levi Brown will have a chance to be a factor in the race for the job. QB Brian Brohm got a head start in repping the offense on the field during rookie minicamp as he received the lion’s share of the snaps over the course of those five practices.

Gailey has made no secret that top pick RB C.J. Spiller will be lining up in a lot of different places come September. He’s unlikely to be a full-time running back, especially with veteran ball carriers like RB Fred Jackson and RB Marshawn Lynch fully capable of handling that load.

With WR Lee Evans the only proven wideout on the roster the depth chart at receiver is likely to be in a state of flux right up until training camp. Going into OTAs the leading candidates to line up opposite Lee Evans are third-year receivers James Hardy and Steve Johnson. Chad Jackson and Felton Huggins are also part of the competition. Roscoe Parrish is expected to be the primary slot receiver.

With the QB situation up in the air and a trio of running backs looking for carries, the Bills don't offer a lot of fantasy attraction here, just yet anyway. Lee Evans could be a solid receiver, but probably not even a guy you want to start every week. It would be nice to see one of the RBs take over a more primary role, so it's something to keep an eye on this summer.

Mike Martz is implementing his system for the Chicago Bears, who are in win-or-else mode. He's trying to get QB Jay Cutler prepared and can't worry about developing young QBs. There aren't enough snaps to go around. Therefore, it would be nice to have someone in place who already knows the scheme.

The name making the rounds in some NFL circles is Trent Green, who last played with the Rams in 2008. He battled concussions during a 14-year NFL career, including two severe ones in a 13-month period. Green officially announced his retirement less than a year ago and has a promising career as a broadcaster. He signed last week to do the Kansas City Chiefs' preseason games and also works for Fox and NFL Network.

A source close to Green said Green talked with the Bears three or four weeks ago and decided to remain in retirement, but the situation might be fluid. Another former Martz protege, Josh McCown, also has been mentioned.

In Martz's system, Green may actually have some fantasy value should Cutler go down. While it doesn't seem like he's ready to come back, just having the talks means it's not necessarily out of the question.

Baltimore fullback Le'Ron McClain, who has proven in the past to be a capable ball carrier when given a chance, has taken to Twitter in an attempt to get the ball more. On his page, he stated:

"'MCCLAIN 4 RB'.' The best gotta work harder than the rest!! Yes it says RB!!!! I believe I can do and that's all that matters."

McClain spent most of 2009 blocking for Ray Rice and will likely do that again in 2010. Should something happen to Rice or Willis McGahee, McClain would be worth acquiring, but for now fantasy owners don't need to spend much time thinking about him.

After a rough 2009 season where he dealt with back issues off the field and struggled on the field, Seattle cornerback Marcus Trufant says he's 100 percent healthy. And he's eager to make amends.

"I feel like I’ve got a lot to prove,” Trufant said. "And I want to come out, and I want to do better for my team. I felt like I not only let myself down, but I let my team down by coming back and not playing at the level that I know I can play at. So I’m just here to do the best for my team, and to help the team out as best as possible."

If Trufant can play like he did back in 2007, when he made the Pro Bowl, Seattle's secondary will show improvement, especially with first round pick Earl Thomas now at safety. An improved secondary won't stop the Seahawks from being undrafted in most leagues, but none of their division rivals have proven stability at quarterback. That means the Seahawks could be worth watching on the waiver wire if you need a defense during the bye weeks.

While most of the offseason headlines in Cleveland centered around the Browns shaking up their quarterbacks, they also beefed up at tight end by signing Ben Watson, formerly of the New England Patriots. Cleveland coach Eric Mangini is excited about his new tight end.

“I think his best football is ahead of him,” Mangini said.

The Canton Repository article stated "Watson caught everything thrown to him in the practice we saw this week. He seemed fast and spontaneous, making moves the moment the ball was secured."

With Cleveland being so young at wide receiver, Watson is their most experienced receiver. That said, it's hard to get excited about anyone catching passes from Jake Delhomme and the rest of Cleveland's quarterbacks, and Watson rarely set the fantasy world on fire playing with Tom Brady. He projects as a fantasy backup who at best might be worth a spot start if Cleveland is playing someone like Buffalo.

Despite the fact that Chiefs linebacker Derrick Johnson is one of the few playmakers the team has on that side of the ball, Johnson remained behind Demorrio Williams and Corey Mays at Kansas City's recent minicamp.

For now, Johnson is not trying to cause trouble.

“If we get to training camp and I’m working my butt off and staying healthy and I’m still not out there with the first team, then we can look at a problem," Johnson said. "Right now, it’s not a problem at all. That depth-chart stuff, that doesn’t come into play until training camp. It’s not a priority for the coaches right now. When we get to training camp, that’s a little different. That’s when we really separate the men from the boys."

In Kansas City's season finale against Denver, Johnson intercepted Kyle Orton twice and returned both interceptions for touchdowns. He needs to be on the field more, and hopefully the Chiefs will come to their senses and realize this. Kansas City's defense won't be drafted in many fantasy leagues, but if Johnson is put into the starting lineup that would make the Chiefs a little more desirable. A starting role would also increase his stock in IDP leagues.

After signing running back Derrick Ward to a big contract in the 2009 offseason, the Tampa Bay coaching staff didn't use him as much as most observers thought they would. Cadillac Williams ended up with 97 more carries than Ward, but there are indications Ward will be busier in 2010.

"You always want to establish the run, and toward the end of the year we were able to do that a little bit more," Tampa Bay coach Raheem Morris said. "Of course, you feel like you should give it to him (meaning Ward) even more. If I can get him the ball more this season, that's usually going to result in more wins and more happy faces around here."

Ward was a trendy sleeper last season who didn't live up to the hype. With the Buccaneers possibly starting two rookie receivers in Arrelious Benn and Mike Williams, and quarterback Josh Freeman entering his second season, the Buccaneers are going to have to establish their ground game to take some heat off of the youngsters. Ward might be worth a flyer after you have already selected your starters at running back, because he still possesses some moderate potential.

With Steven Jackson not participating in OTAs, Kenneth Darby and Chris Ogbonnaya are the first two backs getting carries for the Rams. Given that Darby has shown very little in his time in St. Louis, some might figure Ogbonnaya to be the favorite in the battle to be Jackson's backup, but Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo isn't offering a major endorsement. The coach was asked if Ogbonnaya had the ability to be a No. 2 back, and said, “Well, they should all think that way. Any back that comes in here should be competing for that, so we’ll wait and see what happens.”

The Globe-Democrat article said the Rams remain on the lookout for running backs, and that the Rams feel Jackson's backup is not currently on the roster. Fantasy owners need to keep tabs on this situation, because Jackson will be a first round pick in many leagues. In the past, handcuffing Jackson made little sense, because his backups have been so bad, but if they bring in an adequate reserve or Ogbonnaya proves worthy, owners should feel free to target Jackson's backup.

Miami Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown is still recovering from lisfranc surgery on his right foot, and isn't 100 percent. He still experiences soreness in the foot. But he did participate some in Miami's recent OTAs, and says the healing process is going well.

"It's good,'' Brown said. "I've been out there, and I've been in the offseason program, so I'm steadily making progress. If I continue to make this kind of progress, it will be pretty good for the season.''

The veteran runner doesn't rule out being completely ready for Miami's training camp in July.

Brown is a solid fantasy back when healthy, and is capable of monster games. The game he had against New England in 2008 when he ran for four touchdowns and threw for a score is legendary in fantasy circles. But he has a history of injury trouble and the Dolphins have Ricky Williams slated for a fairly sizeable workload. If you take Brown, make sure you have plenty of other options.

Jacksonville running back Maurice Jones-Drew has established himself as one of the best players in the NFL at his position. And he's done it without the benefit of perfect eyesight. Jones-Drew was nearsighted, but has had offseason Lasik surgery and is seeing things more clearly than he did before.

“It was 70-40 before and now it’s 15-20,” Jones-Drew said. “I didn’t wear contacts. I was just out there playing off instincts. Blurry. You get used to it. I was nearsighted. So I could see up close, I just couldn’t see on those long passes.”

“It’s a huge difference," he added. "Now, I can see the laces. You can see them coming at you from 20, 30, 40 feet away.”

Jones-Drew is a top five draft pick in pretty much every format and this news certainly doesn't hurt his chances of being a potential number one overall pick if Chris Johnson's contract troubles linger into August and more importantly, September.

Tully Banta-Cain, who led the Patriots in sacks last season, revealed he had offseason shoulder surgery, but says he'll be good to go for upcoming organized team activities as well as mini-camp.

"I’m finally back doing everything with the team, all the workouts,” Banta-Cain said. ”It was a minor surgery. It was nothing major.”

In IDP leagues where sacks are worth big points, Banta-Cain can certainly help fantasy teams. He's more of an overachiever than a dominant pass rusher, and because of that he's probably likely to be drafted after other players who are bigger names. Given that, he could be a nice bargain as he's the most experienced of New England's linebackers and a relatively decent bet to lead the Patriots in sacks for the second season in a row.

New England wide receiver Wes Welker is making strides as he recovers from knee surgery, but Welker says it's way too early to set a timetable for his return.

"It's gone as good as expected so far," Welker said. "Hopefully we stay on that track and keep on progressing every day."

Out in California, Welker has been catching passes from Tom Brady, and today was jogging and running short routes at a football camp.

Welker will stay in Massachusetts for the next month, with the Patriots beginning their organized team activities on Monday. A mandatory minicamp is scheduled in June.

"I'm going to be around here working and seeing the guys and watching the films and all the minicamps, critiquing guys and things we can do better, things that we can work on," Welker stated. "I'll be more of the veteran type guy, hanging out and rehabbing at the same time and doing all that stuff."

Expect plenty of stories between now and September on the status of Welker's knee. If he proves he's healthy by opening day his place in the fantasy football hierarchy will rise, but he's not the safe draft pick he's been in the past.

When Mike Martz became Chicago's offensive coordinator earlier this year, Martz had envisioned Devin Hester as a slot receiver in the mold of Az-Zahir Hakim, who was a key part of Martz's famous offense in St. Louis. Now Martz sees Hester taking on a bigger role.

"He's our starter," Martz said. "I think he's an elite wide receiver. There's no question about that. We've got all kinds of new things for him. We're moving him all over. You'll see him line up anywhere. Shoot, he might line up as a tight end occasionally, who knows. We'll see."

Devin Aromashodu and Johnny Knox will be touted as fantasy sleepers in a lot of places, but Hester is the most accomplished wide receiver on the Bears roster. For fantasy owners buying into the concept of the Chicago offense being a high-powered one with Martz at the helm, Hester is a guy to target. None of the three would be considered sure-fire weekly starters at this point, but all three possess the potential to make an impact.

Kansas City running back Jamaal Charles, who captured the hearts of fantasy owners everywhere (except those that were playing against him) with a big stretch run at the end of the 2009 season, underwent offseason shoulder surgery and hasn't been participating in May practice sessions, but says he'll be ready for training camp.

“The shoulder’s holding up fine,” Charles said. “It’s getting better. They just want to keep me right until we really get started. They don’t want me to trip and fall on it, so that’s the best thing for me right now. I tell people not to worry about it.”

Charles has some company in the Kansas City backfield in the form of Thomas Jones, the veteran who seems to age better than most running backs, but the former Texas Longhorn wasn't disillusioned by the addition of Jones.

“I knew we had to get another playmaker and somebody to help me out,” Charles stated. “He’ll get some carries, I’ll get some carries. I don’t have any problem with that. When I go out of the game, I know we’ve got somebody that can pick us up. I don’t have to hurry up and catch my breath and go back in the game.”

Charles will get the most work in the Kansas City backfield, but the addition of Jones means he probably won't go in the first round of most drafts. However, every fantasy team can use a guy who can put a team on his back and carry it to a victory. Charles proved he can be that kind of player in Kansas City's season finale against Denver, when he rushed for 259 yards and two touchdowns. Although he doesn't have the upside he did before Jones entered the picture, Charles can still provide your fantasy team with a serious spark.

In Pittsburgh, Santonio Holmes was the "X" receiver, or split end. While Holmes had considerable success in that spot as a Steeler, the Jets are having Holmes line up in different places. He'll work some as the "Z" receiver or flanker, and some as the "Y" receiver in the slot.

Holmes has indicated statistics and where he's at on the field aren't his main concerns as he gears up for his first season in New York.

“I came here with a mindset to win a championship," Holmes said. "I can go every game this season and only catch two passes a game. If we make it to the Super Bowl, they're going to look at Santonio like this guy was a big help.”

Holmes is not a guy to get excited about drafting this year. He'll be out four games due to a suspension, and New York's offense is built around the run. At best, he's someone you take in the latter stages of a draft and stash on your roster in the hopes he can contribute down the stretch, but he doesn't have much upside as a Jet.

Star wide receiver Calvin Johnson has been frustrated with the losing ways of the Detroit Lions, but after Detroit made a series of moves to boost the talent around him, Johnson is happy.

"You see all the pieces coming together," Johnson said. "We're bigger, we're faster. We're going to be able to spread the ball around."

Johnson's new sidekicks include rookie running back Jahvid Best, wide receiver Nate Burleson, and tight end Tony Scheffler. Plus quarterback Matthew Stafford should continue to mature in 2010 as he enters his second season.

If Johnson's happy, that's good news for fantasy owners. The new pieces around him give him a strong chance to rebound after a down year in 2009, and he could prove to be a great value as he likely won't be among the first wide receivers drafted like he was last year. Many receivers drafted before Calvin could easily be less productive.

Right now Devin Hester is the flanker receiver and Johnny Knox is the split end, or X receiver, in Chicago's base package.

Knox, a speedster out of Abilene Christian, made several big plays for the Bears last season. There is fantasy upside between him, Devin Hester, and Devin Aromashodu, and fantasy owners will need to keep close tabs on who emerges as Chicago's best fantasy prospect.

Mike Martz is aiming to make Chicago's offense stronger, and he's got a good opinion of the wide receivers on the roster. He's singled out Devin Aromashodu as a potential playmaker.

If a guy like Mike Furrey can make a fantasy impact playing for Martz, Aromashodu definitely can. He could be a very savvy draft choice, although it remains to be seen if he'll outshine Johnny Knox and Devin Hester in the fantasy world. Fantasy owners need to keep close tabs on Chicago's receivers during training camp and the preseason.

On his personal website, Brett Favre wrote the following:

This is to confirm that I did have a procedure to remove some scar tissue and bone spurs from my ankle which had been bothering me for a period of time. I appreciate your concerns.

Thanks,
Brett

Many sources had reported that Favre had the procedure, and now we have confirmation from the man himself. It sure seems likely that the veteran quarterback will suit up for the 2010 season. At some point, Favre will show a regression in skills, and while fantasy owners should covet his services in drafts this summer, anyone who drafts Favre needs to make sure they have a capable second signal caller.

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Brett Favre underwent arthroscopic surgery on his injured left ankle Friday morning, several sources told ESPN.com.

Noted orthopedic specialist Dr. James Andrews operated on Favre at the Andrews Institute in Gulf Breeze, Fla., where Favre and his agent Bus Cook were spotted by a handful of people.

Dr. Andrews cleaned up scar tissue and other elements of the joint to allow Favre a better range of motion, sources said.

A source close to Favre said the 40-year-old signal caller would likely need four-to-six weeks of rehabilitation before beginning a running program that would put him on schedule to report to training camp "either at the beginning of camp or shortly thereafter."

Favre had previously said he would need the surgery if he were going to play in 2010. He was unavailable for comment.

Now that several sources are confirming, we are almost ready to believe that Favre did indeed have that ankle surgery today. If everything checks out, the odds of Brett Favre returning to the Vikings for the 2010 season have increased.

Bears RB Matt Forte ran with the first-team offense while Chester Taylor took snaps with the second team at Bears minicamp today.

The Brett Favre speculation took an interesting turn Thursday, as Viking Update has been told that Favre may have already had the ankle surgery needed to return to the Vikings for the 2010 season.

As most fans know, getting confirmation on anything Favre-related is a difficult proposition at best. Favre isn’t talking. Agent Bus Cook refused to confirm anything surgery-related with Favre last year, and the Vikings don’t talk about offseason injury information.

But a fellow professional athlete was informed that Dr. Andrews was out of town this week and, as part of that conversation, was told that Dr. Andrews was “in Mississippi working with an old quarterback” this week to perform a procedure on a client.

An interesting rumor. If we had to wager on it, our money would be on Favre suiting up again this season. But until an official announcement is made, anyone drafting Favre as their #1 QB is taking on some risk.

Don’t be surprised if the Arizona Cardinals make a run at former St. Louis Rams quarterback Marc Bulger sometime in July. According to a team source, the Cardinals coaching staff hasn’t been terribly impressed with the work of any of the quarterbacks on the roster, including veterans Matt Leinart and Derek Anderson, this offseason as the team tries to replace retired Kurt Warner.

If the situation doesn’t improve, expect coach Ken Whisenhunt to make a play for Bulger. The thinking is that the Cardinals may be able to revive Bulger’s career in much the same way they revived Warner’s career the past three years.

Because of his familiarity with the system, it is believed that Bulger – who spent eight seasons with the Rams – could learn the Arizona offense pretty quickly and be able to compete for the job relatively soon.

While this is an interesting rumor, there is no immediate fantasy impact. If Bulger were to sign with the Cardinals and beat out Leinart and Anderson, Bulger could be in line for a nice bounce-back year considering the Cardinals OL is much better than the one he had in St. Louis.

A Minnesota judge ruled Friday that he will keep the suspensions of two Minnesota Vikings on hold if they follow through on their plan to file an appeal in their closely watched fight against the NFL’s anti-drug policy.

An attorney for defensive tackles Kevin Williams(notes) and Pat Williams(notes) said he planned to file that appeal later Friday.

“As a matter of fairness and as a matter of law, we are convinced the NFL cannot and will not be allowed to suspend Kevin and Pat,” attorney Peter Ginsberg said.

Lions Running back Kevin Smith and tight end Brandon Pettigrew, both recovering from ACL injuries, continued to participate in individual drills but did not compete in the team portion of practice.

Chicago WR Earl Bennett had arthroscopic knee surgery shortly after the offseason began. He's back up to speed.

Bears RB Garrett Wolfe was placed on injured reserve last season with a lacerated kidney and then he underwent shoulder surgery. He has been at full speed since the beginning of the offseason workout program.

Giants S Kenny Phillips (knee), running back Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle/feet), WR Hakeem Nicks (wrist/toe) and DT Rocky Bernard (shoulder) will continue to rehab. Bradshaw and Nicks are both expected to return to the practice field within the next two weeks, the team said.

Kevin Boss had surgery on his pinky earlier this offseason. The Giants tight end will have another procedure Monday on a more vital body part.

The team announced today that Boss will have an arthroscopic procedure on his right ankle at the Hospital for Special Surgery to "debride" it -- in layman's terms, to remove dead or infected tissue. The recovery time for the procedure is 4 to 6 weeks.

Boss will miss some offseason workouts and June mini-camp, but should be fine for the regular season.

Star wide receiver Andre Johnson returned to the Texans’ fold Thursday, sounding chastened after missing the team’s first three voluntary organized team activities and seemingly suggesting he wouldn’t skip future off-season workouts as a way of showing dissatisfaction with his contract.

“I didn’t feel right being at home,” Johnson said. “That’s not me. I never miss OTAs. I’ve always been here, so I came in. I’m man enough to say that it was (out of character for him to be a no-show). I’m disappointed about it. I talked to everybody (in Texans’ management). There are no grudges and I don’t have any grudges toward them. We’re just going to move on.

“You can’t really win against the organization. When you’re under contract, they can hold you to it. It’s up to them to re-do it, give you an extension or whatever. They really don’t have to do anything. But I’m past all that now. I’m here working and I’m going to continue to work and hopefully we can achieve our goal of getting to the playoffs and winning the super Bowl.

“Hopefully everything works out. That’s it. I plan on being a Texan until the day I retire.”

Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo was careful to leave no room for doubt. "If we played a game today," he declared Thursday, "A.J. Feeley would be our quarterback."

That was hardly a revelation. Feeley is well-versed in the offensive scheme that coordinator Pat Shurmur imported from Philadelphia, Feeley's home for six of his 10 NFL seasons.

Conversely, rookie Sam Bradford's pro experience consists of five practices at rookie minicamp and two during organized team activities this week at Rams Park.

"It's inevitable that this is going to be Sam's team," Feeley conceded. "When that time comes ... who knows right now?"

Devin Aromashodu was thrilled to hear offensive coordinator Mike Martz say the receivers will be "the strength of the team'' this season. And Martz said to put his statement in granite.

"It definitely makes us feel confident as a group, knowing that he has that much faith in us,'' Aromashodu said. "It gives us that much more confidence coming off last year. He has been really cool with us, working with us as a group and making sure we learn everything.''

Aromashodu is working at a number of receiver spots, including the slot.

Devin Aromashodu working out of the slot is interesting, as last year he primarily lined out wide. However it's far to early to take much from this report. We will continue to monitor the Bears WR situation. If Aromashodu wins a starting job we like his chances to emerge as a playmaker for Jay Cutler.

The Texans are working with a crowded backfield that includes RBs Arian Foster, Steve Slaton, Ryan Moats, Jeremiah Johnson and Chris Henry. Second-round draft pick Ben Tate did not practice this week because of a hamstring injury.

With one week of OTAs in the books, head coach Gary Kubiak shared his thoughts on the group of running backs.

"I've been impressed with Foster," Kubiak said. "(He) went from first year to second year a big jump, just (from) watching him practice. Steve is sitting here lining up as a two and he started 15 games two years ago. Hasn't said a word, just working, and that's been very impressive.

"We need to get the young kid (Tate) out here. The other two guys (Johnson and Henry), they've got some ability, and we need to see what happens when we put the pads on."

Someone will have to win the position. Foster did a nice job last year and was huge the final two weeks of the season, rushing for 3 TDs in that span to go with 216 yards - just when fantasy owners needed him the most. Just another battle to keep an eye on.

It was one of those moments when you know you had just seen something special. Those along the sideline stood in silence, heads turning to give each other that look, as if to say, “Wow!”

RB Derji Karim, the little back from Southern Illinois the Jaguars drafted in the sixth round to return kickoffs and offer depth at running back, caught a short pass in the left flat, stuck his left foot in the ground and made a move back to the inside that was so sudden and so explosive that it left linebacker Justin Durant grabbing at air.

It was a moment those who witnessed it will remember for a long time, if Karim becomes the difference-making running back that singular move on the Jaguars practice field would suggest.

“He can mismatch a linebacker, a safety, a third corner,” General Manager Gene Smith said. “He’s smart. He graduated from college. You can do things with a guy like that.”

While it's only OTAs, drafting RB Maurice Jones-Drew's backup isn't a bad move if you have the roster depth. It looks like Karim could move into the number-two spot if he continues to impress.

For the first two days of OTAs, which feature rookies and selected veterans, TE Cornelius Ingram has managed to do everything the coaches have asked. He cut in both directions, ran full out, made catches that required some tumbling, and his left knee held up just fine.

In essence, he looked no different from the players that weren't trying to bounce back from back-to-back knee injuries.

"I know I can play this game," Ingram said. "I know if my knee's healthy, I can play this game at a high level."

With the way TE Brent Celek emerged last year, it's doubtful Ingram will be a major fantasy force.

Wow, It's only May, and Rex Ryan said this of newly signed K Nick Folk: "Nick has to make a couple, or else we'll find another kicker."

The Indianapolis Colts appear to have their health as they go through the next phase of their offseason program.

Safety Bob Sanders and WR Anthony Gonzalez were among the players participating in the second of nine organized team activities (OTAs) Thursday at the team’s West 56th Street complex.

Sanders suffered a season-ending biceps injury against San Francisco Nov. 1 while Gonzalez sustained what proved to be a season-ending injury to his right knee in the team’s Sept. 13 opener against Jacksonville. Sanders was not made available to the media today, but Gonzalez insisted he was as close to 100 percent as he’s likely to be.

And that included K Adam Vinatieri. The team’s veteran place-kicker was limited to six games in 2009 after undergoing surgery on his right hip and right knee.

Will the Colts part ways with RB Joseph Addai like they did with RB Edgerrin James once the upcoming season ends? His contract is up after 2010 and he'll be 28 in the spring. Running backs have been known not to do well after 30 and the Colts prefer to stay young at that position. Sounds like a recipe for a 2011 draft pick. Looking ahead, who might fit the system.

ANSWER: With so many significant players in line to become unrestricted free agents after the 2010 season, it would be a surprised if the Colts decide to re-sign Addai. Unless a team has a rare running back, it seems the best approach is to use a player for four or five seasons, then reload. Addai has been a very good back for the Colts and I expect him to have a solid season in 2010. But after that, it should be time to turn to Donald Brown and find someone to work as his backup. That's life in the NFL.

This could mean more work for RB Donald Brown this year to see if he can be counted on should Addai leave. Something to think about come draft time...

Washington Redskins WR Santana Moss was among the professional athletes who received human growth hormone from Canadian doctor Anthony Galea, according to two sources familiar with the investigation. On Tuesday, Galea was charged with smuggling and distributing HGH.

One source said that Moss was the player Galea's medical assistant, Mary Anne Catalano, was on her way to meet in Washington, when she was arrested at the U.S.-Canada border on Sept. 14, 2009, with banned substances, syringes and other medical equipment in her vehicle.

Moss would not discuss the matter at Redskins Park on Wednesday.

"I'll talk about football. I don't know about nothing else," Moss said. "I ain't got nothing to do with nothing that ain't about me."

Moss has been far from a consistent fantasy receiver the last few years but with McNabb around he saw a bump in value a bit. However, a suspension will hurt his draft status. At best he's a WR3 on your team right now anyway.

WR Andre Johnson joined the Texans Thursday at the Methodist Training Center for the team's fourth practice of organized team activities (OTAs). He missed the first three workouts this week because of contract-related issues.

Johnson was not obligated to attend the voluntary workouts, but his absence was addressed Monday by coach Gary Kubiak and general manager Rick Smith.

"This is a voluntary offseason (program)," Kubiak said. " Obviously, we want Andre here, and I know he and Rick are talking, so we'll get it worked out. We're not worried about Andre. He'll do his job."

Speaking for the first time since team president Art Rooney II said the Steelers need to put more emphasis on the running game, offensive coordinator Bruce Arians acknowledged Wednesday that improvement has to be made in that area.

"At the end of the game, in the four-minute (offense) to run out the clock and not punt the ball, short yards, we have to be more efficient," Arians said after practice yesterday.

RB Rashard Mendenhall rushed for more than 1,108 yards last season, but the Steelers had problems in short-yardage situations.

Inconsistency in the power running game is why the Steelers were tied for 21st in the NFL last season in offense inside the opponents' 20-yard line — they managed touchdowns just 48.2 percent of the time — even though they were seventh in the league in total offense.

"I think the critical runs, short-yardage, goal line, have been a problem," Arians said. "They got addressed (in 2008) with Gary Russell. Now is it going to be Rashard? It could be Isaac Redman, it could be by a bunch of guys. Is it a back or is it by committee? This time of year you get your running game going, but in training camp you find out that short-yardage stuff. You win the job that way."

Keep checking back during camp to find out who wins the short-yardage job in the Steelers running game. Mendenhall would be a top-notch back should he be named, especially at the goal line, and probably be a mid-to-late first round pick.

Baltimore Ravens Pro Bowl RB Le'Ron McClain has begun an enthusiastic campaign on his Twitter account. It's called, McClain for running back.

However, it's not an elected position and McClain is content blocking for Pro Bowl RB Ray Rice. He just wants to be involved in the offense beyond his role as a human battering ram.

He also wants a long-term contract.

That's why McClain said he has yet to apply his signature to his one-year, $2.396 million first-round restricted tender offer. At this point, there's no movement toward launching contract talks.

"I just really want to see how everything goes around here," McClain said. "It's just quiet and I have the tender over my head."

It's going to be tough for McClain to take away carries from Rice. While he was a fantasy factor a few years ago, we can't see McClain having a ton of fantasy value, outside maybe scoring leagues.

WR Devery Henderson reportedly underwent sports hernia surgery on May 6. The surgery surfaced when Henderson was unable to attend an awards program recognizing scholarships he helps fund in St. Landry Parish, according to The Daily World.

Henderson could not immediately be reached for comment and the Saints offered no immediate confirmation of the affliction. However when it emerged last week that offensive tackle Jon Stinchcomb had also undergone sports hernia surgery in this offeseason the Saints also declined any comment.

The injury, which used to be called a 'groin pull,' has hit the Saints hard. In the past two years, six other Saints have had the same surgery performed at a Philadelphia clinic.

If the reports are accurate, neither Stinchcomb nor Henderson should miss any preseason camp time. Camp is slated to begin on July 29 and the normal recovery time from the procedure is 3-4 weeks.

With Dolphins practices resuming, multiple starting jobs are open. On offense, a battle looms at the receiver spot opposite WR Brandon Marshall; Greg Camarillo started every 2009 game but nobody would be shocked if Brian Hartline supplants him.

Ronnie Brown is the clear front-runner at running back over Ricky Williams, but nothing is assured.

Hartline is very clear: ''I want a starting spot and I want to go after it. That's the only goal until it's taken care of.'' Camarillo said starting is ''important because the best players start and you want to be the best player.''

One Dolphins person said the team views Hartline as a bigger, faster Camarillo. But Hartline must earn it. ''It will be a heck of a competition,'' ex-Dolphins receiver O.J. McDuffie said. ''I like Hartline's speed and toughness. But I think it might be Greg starting. People underestimate him.''

This is a battle to watch. Obviously Hartline will have more value as a starter, and being opposite Marshall, he could be a forgotten man.

Larry Fitzgerald was talking about WR Early Doucet’s toughness when he said, “he reminds me of Q.”

“Q” is WR Anquan Boldin, former fellow Pro Bowl receiver dealt to Baltimore in a trade earlier this offseason. Given the hole left when Boldin did, it won’t just be toughness that will encourage comparisons between Doucet and Boldin.

Fitzgerald has already made his NFL reputation, and in many ways, so too has WR Steve Breaston, the wideout who ostensibly replaces Boldin as the Cardinals’ No. 2 receiver. It is Doucet – whose body type and style of play mirror Boldin – who will inevitably be thought of as Boldin’s sequel.

Breaston is probably the starter next to Fitz, but Doucet had some bright spots last season when he played. The big question is, is there a difference in getting the ball from QB Kurt Warner or QB Matt Leinart, and that will determine Doucet's value this season. He may not be a bad late-round option in your draft as things stand now.

Baltimore Raven rookie tight ends Ed Dickson and Dennis Pitta opened some eyes around the Ravens' training complex.

And their addition could provide the Ravens with enough flexibility to dust off the double tight end formation that hasn't been used much here in recent years beyond short-yardage and red-zone schemes.

"Ed and Dennis have shown us why we drafted them," Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Tuesday during a passing camp. "They're both very talented. You saw them make plays downfield. They've got catch radius, they've got range, and they've got good hands. They're picking things up quickly, so they've been a real plus so far."

TE Todd Heap still figures to be involved in the offense as well. But, there are so many better options at this point in a deep position that all three of these guys will probably be backups on your roster.

The Chiefs can get out of the Matt Cassel contract after this season, but that they worked on surrounding him with help instead of drafting his successor means they still expect the risk to work out according to Sam Mellinger of the Kansas City Star. They don’t need him to be Peyton Manning, but they do need him to be close to what he was the one year starting in New England for the Pioli-Haley plan to take.

“(Cassel) is going to fall under the one-year rule,” Todd Haley says. “He’s got a year under his belt after a very difficult year. Coming from a different place to a new place, different teammates and at the quarterback position, that’s even more difficult probably than most other positions.

“When you throw in the system, all the things he had to go through, it was a difficult year, but he survived it and that’s what I’m really excited about.”

With Charlie Weiss at Offensive Coordinator and the fact that some of last season's issues have been addressed, QB Matt Cassel could fall into the "sleeper alert status."

The Redskins are still in talks with Brian Westbrook, according to NFL.com’s Matt Terl.

Regardless of where Westbrook signs, fantasy GMs should expect minimal impact.

Brandon Marshall will be sidelined until at least the start of Miami Dolphins training camp while he recovers from an undisclosed surgery.

The wide receiver has been rehabbing, Dolphins coach Tony Sparano said. Sparano would not disclose the nature of the surgery, saying only that it was something the team did not expect when it acquired the wide receiver from the Denver Broncos.

This is major fantasy news. Marshall owners are urged to closely monitor this situation. Surgery to a hip is never minor.

The Browns signed veteran free agent kicker Shaun Suisham on Tuesday, which can only be viewed as insurance against a possible training camp holdout by Phil Dawson according to Tony Grossi of the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

The Browns PK position could have some value if the offense improves this season.

Steve Doerschuk of the Canton Repository reports new Browns starting quarterback Jake Delhomme has been around. Take a look around as spring practice gets rolling. His primary running backs and wide receivers figure to be Jerome Harrison, Monterio Hardesty, Peyton Hillis, Mohamed Massaquoi, Brian Robiskie and Josh Cribbs — average age, 24.

The main point here is that Dehlhomme will be Browns' starter barring anything short of disaster. Delhomme's play since his five-interception game in the playoffs two years ago has been exactly that -- disastrous. As soon as the preseason games begin, Seneca Wallace's chances of winning the job will increase with each week that goes by.

John Clayton of ESPN.com reports the Seattle Seahawks have signed free agent QB J.P. Losman to a one-year,$630,000 contract.

Losman is being brought in to be the possible third quarterback behind Matt Hasselbeck and Charlie Whitehurst. Given Hasselbeck's injury history and Whitehurst's wildcard factor, Losman could push to be in the mix.

Raiders coach Tom Cable went on KNBR radio's Murph and Mac show this morning and shot down a ESPN report that Oakland was interested in receiver Terrell Owens. The free agent is still looking for a team.

"We really haven't had any discussion about that," Cable said. "We've got a good, young receiving corps, it's never been a point of conversation."

Various NFL pros and analyst agree that the Raiders would be the perfect fit for Terrell Owens. However, there has been some discussion that Carolina could also be in play. Regardless, TO must lower his 5 million price tag. Stay tuned. Wherever TO lands, he will have a fantasy impact.

Texans running back Steve Slaton struggled with fumbling last season, as well as a nerve problem in his neck. He wound up with a subpar second season after rushing for a franchise-record 1,282 yards as a rookie.

He and the team had downplayed the extent the nerve issue contributed to his fumbling. But after offseason neck surgery to correct the problem, Slaton acknowledged that it was a major factor in his inability to hold onto the ball according to the Associated Press.

Slaton says he couldn't feel his right arm from the thumb to his shoulder. Now that the feeling in his arm has returned, he's confident he can return to top form for the Texans.

If Slaton regains the ability we saw two years ago, he will be an excellent buy-low candidate. Buyer beware as the likelihood of Running Back By Committee is very possible in Houston.

According to NFL.com, Rams running back Steven Jackson opened up about his reported April surgery to repair a herniated disc with St. Louis-area reporters Tuesday, saying he’s about four weeks into an eight-week rehab process. Jackson, who said he got immediate relief from nerve pain following the surgery, is currently working out in a pool as he makes his way back to running and cutting on the field.

“The surgery, really, was up to me,” Jackson said. “I decided to have the surgery, because I was still in the gray area of needing the surgery or not going with the surgery. I met with three specialists around the country. No one definitely said ‘Get the surgery,’ but looking at the season and being able to fully recover from the injury and being able to go to training camp, April was kind of the deadline.”

This is great news for fantasy GMs interested in targeting Jackson. Keep in mind the #'s he produced in 2009 while dealing with the aforementioned back pain.

According to Jim Wyatt of the Nashville Tennessean, it is unlikely the Titans will re-sign LB Keith Bulluck who continues to recover from ACL surgery and is an unrestricted free agent.

“It is very complicated", coach Jeff Fisher said. "Hypothetically if Keith was fine for the start of training camp and able and to play in the preseason games and is 100 percent and we were able to get him under contract, he’s a starter, yeah. That is the best-case scenario but it’s not going to be a realistic scenario just from the timing standpoint as you deal with the ACL.”

Good piece of information for all IDP leagues. Bulluck's best years are behind him. If the Titans retain him, it is best to avoid from a fantasy perspective.

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has not been cleared by the NFL to practice, and the Steelers are awaiting word from the league as to when the two-time Super Bowl winner is allowed to start working out with the team.

With Roethlisberger out for at least the first four games of the upcoming season, his suspension could be reduced for good behavior. Today will mark another step in identifying who will replace him under center. Byron Leftwich, Dennis Dixon and Charlie Batch are all vying to start while Roethlisberger is out.

Buccaneers tight end Kellen Winslow was not at One Buccaneer Place on Monday because he is recovering from offseason knee surgery. The surgery is believed to be Winslow’s fifth operation on his right knee in the last six years.

Sources close to the situation say the knee surgery was a minor arthroscopic procedure that likely cleaned out some excess scar tissue. Barring any set back, Winslow is expected to be the main receiving threat for Tampa.

Browns K Phil Dawson skipped the first day of organized team activities in what could be a statement about wanting a contract extension.

Dawson, a 12th-year pro, also sat out some OTAs last season in what was believed to be a contract issue. Dawson, the Browns' second-leading all-time scorer, is in the last year of his contract.

He sat out five games with a calf injury last season, but returned for the final nine games, making six field goals in the last two outings.

TE Owen Daniels was on the field but did not practice. Daniels is still working his way back from a torn ACL suffered on Nov. 1 at Buffalo. He has previously said he doesn't expect to practice until training camp.

"He's doing a great job in his rehab, and I'm impressed the way he's worked this offseason," general manager Rick Smith said. "I think he's looking great."

Several Texans players were back on the practice field for the first time since being placed on injured reserve last season. Among them was RB Steve Slaton, who's coming off of neck surgery and has slimmed down to about 200 pounds this offseason.

"He's looked good," head coach Gary Kubiak said. "He's had a good offseason. He's dropped a little weight. Obviously, if we were hitting today, he would not be hitting. He hasn't been turned loose for that yet. But we should be able to get the whole offseason out of him. Steve will come back. This team needs him to come back big-time."

Accoding to Twitter and per head coach Steve Spagnuolo: DT Gary Gibson, OT Jason Smith, WR Laurent Robinson and WR Brooks Foster all have been cleared from their injuries.

Remember Robinson, he was a popular pickup early last season before breaking his leg. He caught 80-plus yards in week one, then a TD and 50-plus in week 2 before going down in week three. He should be in the mix for a job this year as well, but at least as of now, the Rams are a risky offense to depend on fantasy-wise.

Mark Sanchez, who had arthroscopic knee surgery this offseason, was a limited participant. The second-year signal caller took limited reps in 7-on-7 drills, played soft toss (aka “Pat and Go”) and went through individual quarterback drills. He will be evaluated on a day-to-day basis.

Coming off his best season, legs still fresh and churning at 31, RB Thomas Jones had plenty of opportunities after becoming a free agent. He chose Kansas City, a team that already has RB Jamaal Charles, a star-on-the-rise back who ran for more than 1,000 yards as a part-timer last season and happens to be eight years younger than Jones.

A chance for competition, to possibly form one of football's best running-back tandems and return a moribund franchise to its power-running roots.

Jones' decision gives Kansas City a power-and-speed, youth-and-experience combination that could end up being the best in the AFC West, if not the NFL.

This is a nice piece about what to expect with the Chiefs and their rushing game with Charles and Jones. The line has been bolstered in hopes to be able to run the ball better. Charles looks like he'll be the workhouse with Jones as the change of pace for short yardage and maybe even the goal line. Charles appears to be dynamic enough to be able to find pay dirt from anywhere on the field which surely helps his fantasy status, and he'll be more of a threat in the passing game as well. Jones, right now, seems like a decent scoring league option.

Lindsay Jones reported that Tim Tebow was taking snaps with the fourth string.

It's not shocking news he'll have to work his way to the top, and this currently puts him behind Kyle Orton, Brady Quinn and Tom Brandstater. By the time the season starts, though, Tebow could have a package of plays to run in the red zone or in certain situations. After all, he was taken in the first round and first round picks are generally considered ready to play now. Fantasy-wise, he's probably a stretch to be drafted, but you know someone in your league will take him. At best, he could have value in scoring leagues, depending on his role.

Buccaneers embattled WR Michael Clayton said that he understands his roster status is not safe with Tampa Bay. Clayton is coming off the worst season of his career just after receiving a lucrative contract extension prior to the 2009 season.

Last season the Bucs started Byron Leftwich, Josh Johnson, and Josh Freeman at quarterback. During the 2009 offseason and training camp, Leftwich and Luke McCown were battling for the right to start. Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris agreed with Clayton's claim about the quarterback continuity.

Clayton has not produced a 40-catch, 500-yard, or multiple touchdown season in the past five years. Still, the Buccaneers had some very productive receivers in that time.

Clayton, the team's first-round pick in 2004, has never produced the numbers that he was able to generate during his rookie season when he had 80 catches for 1,193 yards and seven touchdowns. Clayton feels that he can have an impact on the roster and earn playing time in 2010.

This offseason Tampa Bay traded for veteran Reggie Brown and drafted wide receivers Arrelious Benn and Mike Williams. Clayton is facing tough competition to get any playing time in addition to making the team. The Buccaneers also have holdovers Maurice Stovall, Mark Bradley, and Sammie Stroughter competing for playing time.

Clayton is just not a dependable fantasy player and hasn't been since his remarkable rookie season in 2004. Maybe a change of scenery would be best, but he'll need to prove himself a few weeks in a row no matter where he is before he's even considered a fantasy starter. He should be on your waiver wire come the first week of the season...

Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio addressed the competition between starting QB David Garrard and backup QB Luke McCown. Del Rio doesn’t hide the fact he believes the competition from McCown has pushed Garrard to become more of a leader.

“I really like the situation there,” Del Rio said. “I really believe that Luke has ramped up his preparation and is going to push [Garrard] in every way he can. I think that’s a very healthy dynamic for us at that position.

“I’m loving it where David is at right now and the way he’s approaching things. If you don’t know, sometimes you need a reminder. But, this business is very competitive, for everybody. … It is a performance-based business. You have to play ball, you have to be somebody that can help the team win. And if not, the team is looking for somebody that can. That’s just the nature of this business. I like where David is right now mentally. There’s a little edginess to him, but it’s respectful. And I think it’s really healthy for us. He’s pushing not only himself, but his teammates around him. I think he’s taken a step forward as a leader.”

Last week this looked like a competition, but this makes it seem like Garrard will resume the starting role. Neither figures to be a great great fantasy option, but could maybe serve as backups on your roster in deeper leagues, depending who wins the job in the end.

Among the players who did not practice for the Chiefs because of injury or conditioning reasons: RB Jamaal Charles, cornerback Brandon Flowers, TE Brad Cottam and TE Tony Moeaki and WR Lance Long and WR Quinten Lawrence. Charles and Flowers had shoulder surgery after the season.

This seems like a minor deal, but Charles has already been a topic of debate between a couple of scouts here at 4for4, especially concerning his keeper status heading into this season. He appears to be a top-10 fantasy back despite the addition of RB Thomas Jones and the drafting RB Dexter McCluster, who is actually expected to play as a slot WR. Charles left a good taste in our mouths from last year and could be poised for a monster fantasy season.

Texan WR Andre Johnson missed the first OTA because he's unhappy with his contract that has five years left, according to John McClain.

This is a little different than Tennessee RB Chris Johnson's contract situation since Andre Johnson has five years left. Still, the fantasy impact is on par. Andre will most likely be ranked the number-one WR this summer. Just like CJ2K, watch how things go when camp opens.

No NFL running back has more carries in fewer games than RB Steven Jackson since the St. Louis Rams' running back broke out with 346 carries and 1,528 yards in 2006.

Count Matt Williamson of Scouts Inc. among those who think the Rams erred in leaning too heavily on Jackson last season.

The chart ranks NFL running backs by most regular-season carries since 2006. Jackson and the 49ers' Frank Gore rank among the top four. Jackson also ranks third since 2005.

The Rams' options beyond Jackson include Chris Ogbonnaya, Kenneth Darby, Keith Totson and DeMaundray Woolridge.

Tops was RB Thomas Jones with 1,227 in 64 games and second was RB LaDianian Tomlinson with 1,178 in 62 games.

This chart is definitely something to think about, especially for those in keeper leagues. It could make you think twice about protecting, or drafting Stephen Jackson in the first round. There are some big names on this chart, and some fading stars as well.

WR Kenny Britt got his wake-up call. Now the Titans want the receiver to do what they drafted him to do — take ownership of a place in the starting lineup and become a star.

The Rutgers product and first-round pick started six games as a rookie last season, had two 100-yard games and led the team in receiving yards. He made the Titans' biggest catch of the season — a game-winner against the Cardinals as time expired.

He got off to a rocky start this offseason, however, by being lackadaisical. He was sometimes absent during the early stages of the offseason program and admitted to being distracted when he should have been working out.

Coaches left him on the sideline when the Titans held their first round of practices in April, but he will be on the field this week when veterans and rookies are together for the first time.
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"I have my eyes on doing anything possible,'' Britt said. "Whatever coaches ask me to do, I'll do. It is not what I did last year or what can I do, it is what coaches ask me to do.''

Britt has a chance to be an impact fantasy player this season if he takes the right steps, and that's a bold statement considering its the Titans passing offense. He's definitely a guy to get as late as you can in the draft because he could prove to be a great value.

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft recently spent time with recovering WR Wes Welker and he liked what he saw.

"He's going to be back there, I have confidence in that," Kraft said Sunday at the Science of Sports Science Fair at Gillette Stadium. "I happened to see him a week and a half ago, and he looks great. We think everything should be fine there."

Welker had surgery to repair a torn ACL in his left knee earlier this year after suffering the injury in the Patriots' final regular season game of 2009. A timetable for his return is still unclear.

"It's hard to put a timetable on anything," Welker said over the weekend. "And plus, whenever you put a timetable on it, now people expect you. If you're not ready then, they're like, 'What's wrong?'

There should still probably be some question marks around his recovery, but the progress he's making so far seems like really good news. Welker, of course, can be a top-notch fantasy receiver when 100-percent, and that's especially true in PPR leagues. He should be a top 15-20 WR in most rankings.

Sports Illustrated's Peter King reported: I think if the Colts had it to do all over again, they'd have activated WR Sam Giguere, a reserve wideout from a small college in Quebec, to play in the spot WR Hank Baskett occupied on the kick-return team late last season. Strange statement to make here in the middle of May, looking back at the Super Bowl, but I think the Colts were starting to have real questions about Baskett's hands by late in the season, and they nearly made the move to Giguere. Baskett, of course, couldn't handle the onside kick to start the second half of the Super Bowl, the Saints recovered, and the rest is ignominious history.

Baskett is now with the Eagles, and even if he makes the team doesn't figure to have a big fantasy role behind DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin and Jason Avant.

QB Matthew Stafford fired a rocket over the middle through a tight window to WR Nate Burleson. We've known about Stafford's arm and aggressiveness since the Lions drafted him No. 1 last year, so that part is no surprise. This was significant.

First, Stafford is healthy again. He's past the knee and shoulder injuries he suffered last season, knocking him out of the lineup, hampering him when he returned.

"I feel a lot better," Stafford said. "My shoulder feels good. My knee's feeling a lot better. As far as throwing the ball, I can step into it and let it go as good as I ever have."

Second, Stafford has support. The Lions signed Burleson in March largely because they needed someone to make defenses pay for smothering WR Calvin Johnson. On this play, Stafford made the defense think he was going to the big guy.

Third, Stafford has the talent to put it all together. You should have seen offensive coordinator Scott Linehan smile -- and heard defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham swear -- when the ball was completed.

Stafford will be an interesting fantasy QB option this year. The Lions will be better overall, but still figure to play from behind, which means he could put up some monster garbage numbers. Interceptions could be a concern if he has to throw a lot, but Stafford figures to be an outside-the-top-10 QB, who should make for a nice QB2 on your team.

"Brett's played a lot of years," WR Percy Harvin said of the quixotic Vikings QB Brett Favre, who came out of retirement twice to resume a Hall of Fame career and at 40 is wavering again on what to do about 2010. "Right now I'd say it's 50-50 he comes back."

If it really is a coin flip, Favre figures to go through a pocketful of change finding the answer, and most of the way through training camp, too. He's cagey that way, and Harvin, the only Viking ever to score a touchdown in each of his first three NFL games, is willing to play whatever mind games are necessary.

"Brett, he's really a goof," Harvin said. "We just clown, talk about some TV show or something. We don't even talk about football. He might feel I'm trying to pressure him. I just let him be him. He'll make the decision that's best for him."

Another Favre update with really no news... But should Favre return, he'll immediately be penciled in as a top-10 fantasy QB, based on the great season he had last year and the young weapons around him. So while we get these updates that really tell us nothing, his final decision will have a fantasy impact in rankings.

Green Bay tight end Jermichael Finley, who suffered a knee injury late in the 2009 campaign, says the knee is not hurt, but a tad bit weak. He says nothing is wrong and that he's running the same.

Maybe his knee wasn't 100 percent, but it didn't stop Finley from catching six passes for 159 yards in Green Bay's playoff loss to Arizona. Ideally, Finley's knee will be better before training camp kicks off in the summer, but his potential makes him an excellent guy to draft, especially considering he has vowed to improve his maturity level. Just make sure you have a credible backup if you are in a larger league where carrying two tight ends is more common.

Houston Texans running back Steve Slaton, whose 2009 season was cut short by a neck injury, appeared on a Houston radio station and said he's 100 percent and ready to go.

Slaton entered the 2009 season as Houston's main runner but the Texans backfield is far more crowded heading into the 2010 season. Arian Foster showed promise while Slaton was out and the team drafted Auburn's Ben Tate in the second round of April's draft. Plus there's no guarantee Slaton is ever going to recapture his 2008 form. If anyone is likely to lead Houston's backfield in touches, it's probably going to be Tate.

New England wide receiver Wes Welker said he injured the anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligaments in his left knee last season, but that surgery wasn't needed on the MCL, and "if you have that healing on its own, it almost becomes stronger."

It's a good sign he didn't need surgery on the MCL, but it's still unknown as to when Welker will be back in the New England lineup. Fantasy owners should take on top of his progress.

Packers tight end Jermichael Finley became a major weapon for the Packers last season, but Finley remained a bit of a headache for the Green Bay brass. He was late for a half-dozen meetings and missed curfew the night before the team's 51-45 playoff loss to the Arizona Cardinals.

The talented tight end has made it his mission to mature during the offseason.

"I want to be the best tight end in the league, and I want to be a better father, husband and teammate," Finley said. "I want fans to feel they can trust me and believe in me. The young, immature Finley, I thought he was foolish. And the new Finley, I think is going to do the work, do what he's supposed to do and be that player the Packers know I can be."

Already regarded as a top fantasy tight end, the fact that Finley's improving his focus means the sky could be the limit for him. He's got a great quarterback in Aaron Rodgers and is part of an outstanding offense. Few tight ends have the upside Finley has, and even if he ends up falling short of being a fantasy superstar, he should be a solid weekly starter.

New England linebacker Shawn Crable, who was selected by the team in the third round of the 2008 draft, is eager for the 2010 season to start. That's because Crable has yet to take the field due to injuries.

"I feel good physically," Crable said. “I am working on fine-tuning some stuff, but I feel good and ready to go.’’

New England got an unlikely 9.5 sacks out of Tully Banta-Cain last season, but the Patriots still need to bolster their pass rush. Crable will compete for a role at outside linebacker.

The Cleveland Browns have a young group of receivers, and Browns GM Tom Heckert hasn't ruled out bringing in some veteran help, but he won't be reaching out to Terrell Owens.

"That's not the direction we're headed," he said. "There's a lot of factors that go into that. I think at this stage of his career, this isn't a place he'd be looking at. We don't plan on talking to him."

From a football perspective, Owens could help the Browns, despite the fact his best days are behind him. But Owens has baggage and he doesn't offer the right kind of veteran leadership. Even if he catches on somewhere, his days as a premier weapon in fantasy football are over.

Participating in his first minicamp since 2007, Baltimore linebacker Terrell Suggs is vowing to make amends for a disappointing 2009 season. After signing a six-year, $63 million contract, Suggs had just 4.5 sacks, which was a career-low for the former Arizona State Sun Devil.

“Hey, it’s not expected for me to have a season like that," Suggs said. "Rest assured, it will never happen again.”

With his stock a little lower than usual, Suggs could be a bargain for IDP owners. In leagues that utilize team defenses, a rebound by Suggs would enhance the already high value of Baltimore's defense.

Tennessee Titans wide receiver coach Fred Graves indicated Lavelle Hawkins is a much-improved player.

"Between last year and this year, Hawk's made a tremendous jump,'' Graves said. "He's been more consistent and he understands how to play more than one position.''

It's nice to know Hawkins is getting better, but it would likely take a rash of injuries for him to become a notable fantasy player.

At one point, new Chicago offensive coordinator Mike Martz envisioned wide receiver Devin Hester as an ideal slot receiver, but depending on what play is called, Hester has been lining up some in the slot and some outside. The former Miami Hurricane is relishing his role in Martz's offense.

"It's exciting, the things that Martz has brought with him," Hester said. "Just out there running routes, I can't wait to go against defenses. I am just so eager to try to do it against our opponents."

While Devin Aromashodu and Johnny Knox are youngsters with upside, Hester still lead Chicago in receiving yards in 2009 and was second on the team in receptions despite playing in just 13 games. With all of Chicago's receivers gaining extra attention with the addition of Martz, none of them are sure-fire fantasy starters at this point. They do offer potential off the bench and given that Hester has proven he's capable of big games in the past, he might be a better pick because he's more proven.

Cleveland head coach Eric Mangini praised rookie running back Monterio Hardesty for his efforts during spring practice. Mangini asked questions of his rookies in meetings, and singled out Hardesty for his awareness.

“Some guys couldn’t get the answers,” Mangini said. “He knew the answer. And it was on a range of different things. You could tell he was constantly paying attention, constantly taking notes.”

Although media members in attendance didn't think Hardesty was as big as they thought he would be, Mangini said Hardesty was "pretty well slapped together" and "some guys run big."

While Hardesty won't be hyped like fellow rookies Ryan Matthews and Jahvid Best, he's someone fantasy owners might want to keep in mind for a late-round pick. He's certainly more of a short yardage threat than Jerome Harrison and Cleveland's passing game projects to be shaky, so they'll have to win games on the ground. Harrison has had injury issues in the past, so it's not out of the question Hardesty could become Cleveland's lead back at some point.

After suffering through calf and knee injuries in 2009, Giants defensive lineman Chris Canty is fully healthy and determined to help the Giants defense rebound from a disappointing season. He's been one of the team's hardest workers this offseason.

"I'm on a mission to help this football team any way I can," Canty said. "Last year, I wasn't able to contribute. It was very frustrating being injured and not being able to perform up to my best. This year, I wanted to take all of the excuses out of it. The coaches and the front office have done a great job of putting together a lot of talent on this football team. There's a lot of talent on the defensive line, so there's no reason why I won't have an opportunity to be successful. I didn't want to leave anything to chance this year."

Injuries played a big role in the decline of New York's defense in 2010, and the Giants have a rough schedule in 2010, as they will play their usual division opponents plus Green Bay, Indianapolis, Houston, and Minnesota. Still, with capable pass rushers such as Justin Tuck, Mathias Kiwanuka, Osi Umenyiora, and rookie Jason Pierre-Paul, plus a deeper secondary featuring new acquisitions Antrel Rolle and Deon Grant, the Giants defense shouldn't be ignored on draft day. It would be hard to pencil them in your lineup every week, but if you pair them with another decent defense they can certainly be used in the right matchups.

Appearing on ESPN radio, New York Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum said the team has reached out to the agents for star cornerback Darrelle Revis regarding a new contract.

"Our expectation is he'll retire a Jet many years from now," Tannenbaum said during his appearance on the radio network.

Revis had given a hint that he might stay away from training camp should he not be given a new contract.

As long as everything works out, the Jets will have one of the best team defenses in 2010.

While Washington owner Daniel Snyder is optimistic about his team's chances this season, he's not happy that Albert Haynesworth has been absent and is among many in the Redskin organization that wishes Haynesworth would show up and be part of minicamps and team activities.

"I'm disappointed he's not here. Absolutely," Snyder said. "We're expecting our players to lead by example, and we're expecting our players to understand that they're Redskins and they need to be here."

The Danny has every right to be disappointed in Haynesworth. He spent a fortune to sign Haynesworth as a free agent last year, and Haynesworth didn't deliver. Big Al isn't happy that the Redskins are converting to a 3-4 defense, but he needs to take a lesson in how to conduct himself from teammate Andre Carter. Carter has faired much better in his career in 4-3 defenses, but as opposed to Haynesworth, Carter is working hard and trying to make a good impression on new Washington coach Mike Shanahan. Fantasy owners don't need to go out of their way to target the Redskins defense on draft day.

Wes Welker, appearing at a fundraiser for his charitable foundation in Oklahoma City, said his recovery from a left knee injury is “coming along pretty well" but his timetable for a return to the New England lineup is uncertain.

“It’s too early for that right now,” Welker said. “My main thing is just working hard and getting back as soon as possible.”

Welker also stated he injured "just the ACL" when many reports indicated he injured both his MCL and ACL.

Owners, especially those in PPR leagues, will be hoping Welker is ready to go on opening day, but given that he injured his knee in the final regular season game of 2009, his availability is uncertain. Promising Julian Edelman could pick up a lot of receptions if Welker misses a significant portion of the 2010 season. The Patriots made moves on draft day to bolster their passing game, selecting two tight ends and Ohio wide receiver Taylor Price. They also signed Torry Holt and David Patten. Welker's numbers might drop even if he gets healthy and at this point, he's a risky draft pick.

Tennessee tight end Bo Scaife, like his teammate Chris Johnson, is staying away from voluntary workouts despite the fact he's under contract. Titans coach Jeff Fisher seems to think Scaife should be in Nashville.

“Bo must have reasons for it,” Fisher said. “He was compensated pretty well last year and he’s going to be compensated pretty well this year. I think we’ve treated Bo pretty well.”

Scaife does have a rapport with Vince Young dating back to their days with the Texas Longhorns, but he's never scored more than two touchdowns in a season and fantasy owners can do better in terms of finding a backup tight end.

Chris Johnson may be staying away from Nashville as he awaits a new contract, but that's not stopping him from staying in shape. Titans wide receiver Nate Washington conducted a football camp recently in Toledo, Ohio, where Johnson was among the guests and assured his teammate that his Florida workout sessions are paying off.

"I asked him if he put on a little weight — no gut, no, no — I'm talking thicker, stronger looking," Washington said. "He assured me, 'Big bro, I am working.' And I said you don't have to tell me that, I know. He looks great, really.''

Johnson's name will be called out first in most fantasy drafts this year provided his contract impasse with the Titans is resolved.

Ravens offensive coordinator Cam Cameron indicated he will significantly expand the passing game packages the Ravens use.

Jaguars OC Dirk Koetter on WR Mike Sims-Walker: “In my opinion, Mike Walker, when healthy, can be a number one receiver. We know Mike Thomas has a chance to be, at the least, a very good slot receiver. We have to find out if Mike can do more than that. Our big question is who’s the two right now? Mike and J.D. (Dillard), are they the number two?” Koetter asked rhetorically.J

Former UAB standout Joe Webb went to Minnesota a few days after the NFL Draft with hopes of convincing his new employer that he’s capable of making the Vik ings roster as wide receiver.
He may have come home from the mini-camp for rookies with a new goal.

“The coaches liked me (at receiver), liked what I did out there and the athleti cism I showed,” Webb said. “They also put me at quar terback and had me throw the ball. They liked the way I threw the ball and now they want me to play quar terback. Right now, it looks like when I go back, I’ll get a shot at quarterback.”

Patriots reached agreement on a one-year contract with DE Derrick Burgess.

Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin says he'll decide on his starting quarterback by the time training camp opens in July.

Tomlin told the team's official Web site Wednesday that he doesn't envision having a typical competition between Byron Leftwich, Charlie Batch and Dennis Dixon to determine who'll be behind center while Ben Roethlisberger serves a six-game suspension to open the regular season. However, Tomlin said he'll "certainly" know the pecking order entering camp.

"Really, it's not a three-man quarterback competition at this point," Tomlin said. "We know what all three men are capable of doing. All three men, at different points in time, have benefited us and helped us win football games or played winning football. We know what we're working with. We're going to spend the rest of this offseason teaching, re-acclimating in some cases -– as with Byron Leftwich -– and then we're going to make decisions and move forward."

Tomlin added that "in all likelihood" he won't announce his decision at the start of camp, but he'll make it by then.

Browns Head Coach Eric Mangini said the Browns will consider adding a veteran wide receiver if he is “the right fit.” It’s debatable whether Mangini’s wildest dreams include Terrell Owens in an orange helmet, but a Browns captain put in a plug for the aging superstar Thursday.

During a live chat on NFL.com, Josh Cribbs was asked where he thinks Owens, an unrestricted free agent, will land in 2010. “Hopefully in Cleveland,” Cribbs replied. “I think he’s got a little bit left in the tank. He'll eventually be with a team in training camp.

Terrell Owens can't take all the blame for his underwhelming season in Buffalo last year, given the offense he had around him. But a roster spot in Cleveland wouldn't be much of a fantasy upgrade for TO unless Jake Delhomme can somehow resurrect his career. Terrell Owens will turn 37 during the 2010 season, and it's hard to imagine he has another big fantasy season in him unless he lands in a great situation (not Cleveland).

After last Friday's practice, the Ravens watched players with previous return experience catch punts. Rosburg said the team will continue to look for players who can handle that.

One player who will get a chance in camp is fifth-round draft pick David Reed, who was a good kick returner at Utah, but didn't return punts.

"David really has good ball skills," Rosburg said of the wide receiver. "And while he doesn't have a lot of punt return experience, we're confident that at some point he can gain that experience here. Obviously, catching kickoffs is not quite as big a challenge. He has a lot of return experience, particularly his junior year in college, and we'll get him back in there."

Bengals TE Chase Coffman will have to battle for a roster spot.

“The tight end position is up in the air right now,” Coffman said in a phone interview. “I’m trying to go out there and win a starting job. Hopefully, I can. I want to be able to help our team win some games.”

Lindsay Jones is reporting RB Brian Westbrook is in no hurry to sign, but is healthy.

How quickly the world of a NFL running back can turn. Once the ultimate fantasy player with his ability to run and catch passes, Westbrook is just looking to catch on as a backup. So far he's visited Washington, St. Louis and Denver. Even with McNabb lobbying, the 'Skins seem to have their limit down-trending running backs and the Rams play half their games on turf.

The Times-Picayune New Orleans Saints beat reporter Mike Triplett said deal with RB Pierre Thomas and the Saints could get done sooner rather than later and that it wasn't anything to worry about. He said the Saints have made it clear he's a top priority.

Triplett added that Thomas is a restricted free agent and just three-year vet, and a lot times those type of players don't get longterm deals until after their fourth year.

Thomas is borderline keeper consideration this offseason, especially in PPR leagues. While RB Reggie Bush is still there, RB Heath Bell left for the Eagles, meaning Thomas could see more of a workload. Even if not a keeper, Thomas should be a nice RB2 in most leagues, available in the ealry middle rounds.

The Titans sat WR Kenny Britt for April’s minicamp because he wasn’t up to speed conditioning-wise and had missed parts of the offseason training program. Britt admitted he’d been lackadaisical in his approach and wasn’t in the best shape.

Now he's been cleared to practice. He said he’s worked with strength and conditioning coach Steve Watterson and feels in much better shape. In the future, however, Britt knows he has to be ready to start from the beginning with his teammates.

“It definitely is a wake-up call,’’ Britt said. “You come in and you think you are going to practice and you tape up and you are ready to go out there and coaches are like, 'Take it easy. We want to see where you’re at and don’t want you to pull anything like last year' when I pulled my hamstring. That’s something we don’t want to do again, where I sit out because of injury and get fat… and have to drop weight again.’’

Britt emerged as the go-to receiver last year on Tennessee, but that didn't always mean the Titan passing game was consistent. Britt should be a nice depth addition to your WR corps this season, okay to play in certain matchups.

Coach Jeff Fisher said he thinks RB Chris Johnson would like to be in Nashville working out with his teammates. The same goes for TE Bo Scaife.

“I think they are not here because of the advice they’ve been given," Fisher said. "And they’d like to be here, it's just the situation they are in.

“There is always going to be a day where there’s a wedding or there’s a graduation but when guys decide not to come in because of their contract that is a different matter and I’m not going to dwell on it,’’ Fisher said. “But these things work themselves out. I am sure that (Johnson) is working and that he is not planning on sitting out the season. I am sure he’ll come in pretty soon."

Johnson wants a new contract. Scaife has signed his $4.9 million tender but wants a long-term contract.

Johnson won the rushing title last year and ran for over 2,000 yards while doing so, and, was just about a lock for a huge fantasy day every week. It's hard to imagine the Titans would start the season without Johnson in their backfield, so hopefully this gets resolved by the time training camp comes around.

On Monday, QB Carson Palmer said WR Matt Jones, the former first-round draft pick who hasn’t caught an NFL pass since ’08, and free-agent pickup WR Antonio Bryant can give him what he’s been missing since the departure of WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh and the injury to the late WR Chris Henry.

Palmer didn’t throw a deep ball to Jones on because the Bengals were installing their short routes. But twice Jones ran by a top-tier CB in Leon Hall during drills and caught one of them.

“He looked good today,” Palmer said of Jones. “He’s so long. Big. So lanky. I threw him a ball when he was completely covered. He just caught it out in front of him and didn’t let the DB come close to making a play on it. That’s what you have to do when you’re that big and you’re that type of player. You need to use that to your advantage and it looks like he’s going to be able to do that. I can’t wait to get him out there for the long routes when we put more of the offense in and we can open him up.”

It's still early, but if one or both of these guys can step up along side of WR Chad Ochocinco, Palmer will have some nice fantasy value this year.

K David Buehler said he is making progress in his transition from kickoff specialist to full time kicker. He says the lessons with kicking coach Chris Boniol are going well and he is hopeful that he will be ready to handle all the kicking chores next season for the Cowboys.

"We changed some stuff up fundamentally," Buehler said. "Just getting comfortable and not having to think about it, where it was second nature, that was the thing at the beginning. Now I'm used to what he's been teaching me and I've been doing it routinely, it's good."

In other news, coach Wade Phillips said he would prefer that QB Tony Romo not have to hold on field goals and extra points.

There's nothing like fantasy kicker talk in May! But in reality, if Buehler wins the job he's going to have some value at the ever-important position in your lineup. He should have a lot of opportunities to put up top-10 kicker points behind a pretty solid Dallas offense, so keep the name in mind.

Mike Chappell reports that every indication is that S Bob Sanders and WR Anthony Gonzalez are on schedule with their rehabs. He's not certain if each will be medically cleared for 100-percent participation in training camp, but he expects them to be ready for the start of the regular season.

Gonzalez will probably have some work to do since WR Austin Collie and WR Pierre Garcon had nice seasons last year. Garcon had 151 receiving yards in the conference championship and 66 in the Super Bowl, with TDs in both.

Columnist Dan Pompei's thinks RB Matt Forte's problems were due to a combination of things, blocking and he had his knee scoped.

So that may have had something to do with his performance as well. He also did not seem to be playing with much confidence, or at least not as much confidence as he had as a rookie. Pompei anticipates Forte getting 60 to 70 percent of the running back touches -- as long as he's playing at least as well as he did in 2008.

If he runs like he did last year, a door is going to be open wide for RB Chester Taylor to burst through. Whereas the Bears really did not have another good option to the slumping Forte last year, they have one this year.

Forte was a top-5 pick last year, but for the most part was a disappointing fantasy player for where he was taken. Decisions will have to be made in keeper leagues and RB rankings this summer. But, it seems like if you want Forte, or plan to keep him, getting Taylor as a compliment could be a must.

Dallas Cowboy WR Roy Williams has been catching 200 balls a week off the JUGS machine and an estimated 40 or 50 from QB Tony Romo. He is ready to prove that he is the same receiver he was in Detroit in 2006, when he caught 82 passes for 1,310 yards and seven touchdowns.

Williams said he isn't going to give up his starting job easily, even though the Cowboys spent a first-round pick on Oklahoma State WR Dez Bryant.

"This ain't my first rodeo," Williams said. "I got recruited [to Texas] with B.J. [Johnson] and Sloan Thomas, so those are two top-notch guys. I came in and did my thing. I was the third one on the totem pole in that deal, and I came out No. 1. I don't really see it as a competition thing. I see it as us getting better.

"But I know in the back of my mind and the back of his mind, he wants to play, the only way he's going to play is to get No. 11 off the field, and that's going to be tough to do. But it's going to make us better as a football team."

This battle will impact your draft when it comes to WR depth, and is just something else to watch this summer. Williams may have the value early on this season, but at this point it's hard not to think Bryant will take over the WR2 job on Dallas by the end of the season.

Tampa Bay RB Carnell Williams signed his tender. Bucs aslo claimed G Michael Shumard off waivers from the Broncos and waived T Robert Okeafor.

To much surprise, Caddy Williams took a lot of carries last year from free agent RB Derrick Ward, who many fantasy GMs took very high in last year's draft. Williams ended up very usable in certain matchups last year, but the Bucs offense was pretty bad overall and it was always a risk to put him in your lineup. The same will probably be said this year, and he's probably and RB4 on your team when all is said and done.

NFL Network's Jason La Canfora reports that the Rams are completely confident that Steven Jackson (back surgery) will be ready for training camp.

Despite a weak supporting cast and a nagging back injury in 2009, Steven Jackson was a true work horse for the Rams (and fantasy GMs)! Barring any setback, Jackson still projects to be a top 8 RB.

La Canfora, who's spoken to people in the organization, says he'd be "very surprised" if Favre isn't the Vikings' starter by Week 1.

Like sounds through an hour glass, so are the days of Brett Favre's life. In the controlled circle of friends surrounding Favre, most believe he will return for another season. However, Peter King of SI.com has reason to believe otherwise. Stay tuned!

New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez said Wednesday that his rehabilitation from offseason knee surgery is progressing on schedule, but he can't say if he'll be ready to participate in minicamp in June.

All signs point toward Mark Sanchez being ready to work w/ his newly expanded WR and RB corps come training camp. Expectations are high for Sanchez and could be a possible fantasy sleeper.

Several factors make this a pivotal season for Cardinals quarterback Matt Leinart: He turned 27 on Tuesday. It’s his fifth year, and in 2011 his salary increases by $5 million, and he could earn a $5 million roster bonus.

If Leinart proves himself this season, the Cardinals likely would want to restructure his contract. If Leinart fails, he would not return, at least not at that pay grade according to Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic.

“People can say what they want about me, but I still haven’t really proved anything yet,” he said. “I haven’t been out there, so I don’t think you can make a fair judgment.”

Nothing like a little contract talk to encourage better performance. Opinions vary on Arizona QB situation. An August Training Camp battle should determine who is under center for the 2010 season in the desert.

After visiting with the Redskins, former Eagles RB Brian Westbrook is now en route to Denver to visit the Broncos on Thursday according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Ironic if Westbrook signs with Denver as he would be potentially backing-up his former back-up Correll Buckhalter. Training camp will be the true test for Westbrook to gauge his fantasy value.

According to Bengals.com, Matt Jones impressed in the team's first practice and may have a shot to land the third receiver job.

Matt Jones tallied 65 receptions for 761 yards in the 2008 season for the Jaguars. He has excellent size and speed and received one hell of a wake-up call by not having any team sign him last season. Given the supporting cast, he could quietly produce once again. Sleeper alert in larger league formats.

So, now that McNabb is gone and Kolb is the new starting quarterback, what can we expect from the Eagles offense this season?

Well, there is little doubt that the offense will be different with Kolb at the helm. Both Kolb and offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg already have acknowledged that. You play to a quarterback's strengths. McNabb's was a big arm. Kolb's is accuracy.

The Eagles likely will become a more traditional West Coast offense this season, heavier on short and intermediate routes like slants and curls and crosses that will give receivers more yards-after-the-catch opportunities than the deeper patterns the Eagles used when McNabb was behind center. Doesn't mean they won't throw the ball deep. Just means they probably won't throw it deep nearly as much.

"The yards after the catch are going to be a big part of our offense," Kolb said during the postdraft minicamp. "I know this group [of receivers] will make the plays if I give them the chance to do so."

Although there is some question regarding QB Kevin Kolb and how he will be as a fantasy QB, GMs should rest easy knowing that the Birds will rely on Kolb's accuracy. This means more completions and Philly WRs should generate Yards-After-The-Catch!

The Pittsburgh Steelers announced today they placed wide receiver Limas Sweed on the Reserve/Injured List today after clearing NFL waivers. Sweed was Waived/Injured on Monday after injuring his Achilles’ tendon during the final day of the team’s mandatory minicamp on May 2.

Limas Sweed never really produced for fantasy GMs or the Steelers organization. With the Santonio Holmes trade, some thought this could be Sweed's year...not the case. Move him completely off your radar.

Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll appeared on The Dan Patrick Show on Tuesday according to Eric Williams of the Tacoma Tribune. Carroll talked about the team’s rookie draft class, possible sanctions at USC and former player Taylor Mays, among other subjects.

Carroll said that Notre Dame wide receiver Golden Tate probably made the most plays out of all the rookies during the team’s post-draft minicamp two weeks ago.

With T.J. Houshmandzadeh getting a little "long in the tooth" along with Seattle's need for a playmaker, Golden Tate could be one to move-up on your fantasy draftboard...especially in Dynasty and Keeper league formats

Brian Westbrook has a scheduled visit to the Redskins on Wednesday according to Chris Mortensen of ESPN.

If Westbrook would sign with the Redskins, he would join a crowded backfield of Clinton Portis, Larry Johnson, and Willie Parker.

Granted, it's just a visit, however, Westbrook going to Washington will just water down the fantasy impact of Clinton Portis, Larry Johnson and Willie Parker.

The Saints could have a long-term offer to running back Pierre Thomas as early as tomorrow, a source told Sean Fazende of FOX 8 Sports in New Orleans.

The team tendered Thomas at a second round level after the season, a one-year deal that would have been worth $1.68 million.

Thomas has not signed that tender in hopes of reaching a long-term agreement with the team.

This is great evidence that the running-back-by-committee nightmare in New Orleans is over. Yes, Reggie Bush will still be in the mix but Fantasy GMs should now consider Pierre Thomas as the Saints "Bell Cow."

During and after a speech Monday at the Hall of Fame Luncheon Club, Browns coach Eric Mangini gave what passed for a state-of-the-quarterbacks report according to Steve Doerschuk of the Canton Repository. Jake Delhomme is the presumed starter for the Browns but Mangini was asked about Seneca Wallace.

“They’re different types of quarterbacks,” Mangini said. “Jake definitely has a larger body of work, although I’ve played against Seneca, and he was tough.”

“Regardless of how it works,” Mangini said, “Seneca’s going to have plays in there where he’ll be involved, and maybe he’ll be involved with Josh (Cribbs), and we can have some fun with that.”

For those of you that like to gamble on "X" Factor fantasy players, Seneca Wallace will play that role. The Cleveland QB situation is very uneasy right now given Jake Delhomme's poor performance in 2009 and the 2010 drafting of Texas QB sensation Colt McCoy.

The Oklahoma City native and New England receiver tore up his left knee in the Patriots’ regular-season finale last December. The ACL ripped, the MCL shredded and the doubts emerged.

"You can’t to it,” some suggested.

"You’re done,” others whispered.

For Welker, it’s nothing new. This is a guy who’s been questioned every step of the way, who’s heard every reservation and hesitation and suspicion.

"I hate hearing it, but I love hearing it,” said Welker, whose annual charity weekend in Oklahoma City kicks off Friday with the Cleats and Cocktails fundraiser. "To me, that pushes me. That drives me.”

Read more: http://www.newsok.com/jenni-carlson-dont-count-wes-welker-out/article/34...

This is a great feel good piece for Fantasy GMs that play in Dynasty/ Keeper leagues or for those planning to target Wes Welker in re-draft formats. However, keep in mind that Welker's surgery was Feb. 3, 2010 and that recovery time varies from six to twelve months. Welker himself isn’t ready to target a date for his return Buyer beware.

Larry Holder of CBS Sports is reporting on Twitter that New Orleans Saints WR Robert Meachem had toe surgery and the goal is to have him back by the first week of training camp. He's currently on crutches.

Meachem is WR2 or WR3 on your fantasy team and a solid option in a lot of matchups because the Saints throw the ball so much. This probably won't hurt his value a whole lot, considering the style of offense he's in - unless he's not ready to start the season.

New Washington Redskins QB Donovan McNabb wants to get the tight end more involved in the offense. How involved? As involved as TE Jason Witten is with the Cowboys' offense.

"The success Houston had last year with (tight end) Owen Daniels before he got hurt is something that we'd like to do in this offense, as well as what Dallas does with Witten,'' McNabb told reporters during the Redskins' mini-camp.

Cooley, who had injury problems, and TE Fred Davis combined for 77 receptions that produced 841 yards and eight touchdowns last season. Daniels had 40 catches for 519 yards and five touchdowns with the Texans. Witten had 94 catches for 1,030 yards and two touchdowns.

This certainly seems like good news and an increase in fantasy value for Cooley. McNabb is used to throwing his tight ends, too. In 2009 with Philadelphia, TE Brent Celek became a main target for McNabb, after a two-TD performance vs. Arizona in the NFC Championship game back in 2008.

S Troy Polamalu suffered more than a knee injury that knocked him out of 11 games in 2009. He also lost peace of mind as he watched his star-studded career — including five Pro Bowl appearances in seven years — flash before his eyes.

"Yes, it was a concern," said Polamalu, who attended the team's mandatory minicamp last weekend. "The hardest thing was if I would have injured it again, the doctor was saying that it will be a career-ending injury, most likely."

Facing the reality of suffering a torn ligament in his left knee, Polamalu reluctantly wore a brace — although not all the time, as the Steelers requested but he hated how the brace restricted his movement.

The Steelers addressed Polamalu's injury history by signing two undrafted free agents at safety. Which means the Steelers are counting on Polamalu making a full recovery.

The Steelers were the most attractive fantasy defense to open last year, but didn't live up to the hype, perhaps because of Polamalu. They will probably take a hit in this year's rankings as well. However, the team wants to get back to running the ball and taking time off the clock so you still considering them an every-week D/ST.

Some notes from Ravens minicamp:

In their three-wide formation, the Ravens preferred to let WR Anquan Boldin line up in the slot and work over the middle. WR Derrick Mason and WR Donte’ Stallworth were split out wide.

Cam Cameron doesn’t want his offense to be known as a gimmick one. But the Ravens worked on a dozen of trick plays and formations. They lined up in the wildcat with RB Willis McGahee taking the direct snap. RB Ray Rice threw a touchdown pass to WR Anquan Boldin. It was quite entertaining.

Stallworth as a number-three means he's an injury away from becoming a starter. Right now, he's yet another wide receiver to put on your list to watch this summer, and even for a potential waiver wire pickup once the season gets underway.

QB Tom Brady said he's been throwing "quite often'' on the West Coast to a rehabbing WR Wes Welker, recovering from knee and rotator-cuff surgeries.

He made no predictions about when Welker would be ready to play, and was unspecific about how much Welker is doing now. But Welker is only three months removed from major surgery to his knee and shoulder, so it'd be a shock to see him early in the season.

"He was an undrafted free-agent and has had to work for anything he's ever gotten,'' Brady said. "So don't put anything past him.''

Brady also said he's not down over the team not adding a significant running back or wide receiver (other than the aging WR Torry Holt) to a team that needs an offensive boost with Welker's status in doubt.

"I like [2009 injured draft pick] WR Brandon Tate a lot, and WR Julian Edelman was so effective for us last year, plus having [free-agent] WR David Patten back is going to help. The two tight ends we drafted [TE Rob Gronkowski and TE Aaron Hernandez], from what I hear, are really good players,'' Brady said.

Welker is making great strides but is still expected to miss the start of the season. A knee injury is pretty serious stuff for NFL players, so it will remain to be seen if Welker bounces back to his old form. He'll probably be a mid-to-late round addition in your league with hopes the pick turns into a big-time value.

RB Ryan Mathews had a busy first day on the job.

The running back, selected 12th overall by the San Diego Chargers in the NFL draft, was the focal point of the team's rookie orientation, which started Friday and includes four sessions through Saturday afternoon.

Mathews was already the workhorse the Chargers expect him to be during the regular season, their first without LaDainian Tomlinson since 2000. He took a lot of reps during his first official practice as a Charger, and admits that everything didn't come easy.

"I knew it was going to be fast paced and I knew there was going to be a lot of reps and mental work," Mathews said. "It's hard work and it's going to take some getting used to, but it's all part of the process. I'm going to take as much as I can from these sessions and use it to prepare for minicamp and the rest of the offseason."

When a team in need of a running back trades up to get you at number-12 in the first round, you're going to play. And, it seems the Chargers aren't hiding the fact he's going to have a huge part in their offense this season. Fantasy-wise, that makes Mathews a very interesting potential draft pick this summer. He won't crack the top-10 RBs coming into the season, maybe not even top-15, but he's one of those guys you may take a round or two early based on his huge potential.

WR Armanti Edwards is picking up on his new position.

Nobody on Carolina's roster is getting more attention at this weekend's minicamp, and for a good reason. The former Appalachian State quarterback is the Panthers' biggest draft gamble.

Indeed, the wiry, speedy, elusive QB who engineered the Mountaineers' stunning upset of Michigan in 2007 and delivered two FCS national championships, is not behind center anymore. The 5-foot-11, 182-pound Edwards is running routes as a receiver, something he hasn't done since his junior year of high school. He's also fielding punts for the first time in his life.

Few expected Edwards to go so high in the draft, or have a team go to such lengths to take the only player in NCAA Division I history to pass for 10,000 yards and rush for 4,000 more. Panthers general manager Marty Hurney was so determined to get Edwards that he traded next year's second-round pick to New England for the Patriots third-round choice, where they snagged the Greenwood, S.C., native.

There's no doubting Edwards' athletic ability and the Panthers gave up a lot to get him, which should mean playing time. Fantasy-wise, things will surely have to shake out a bit more before he's drafted in your league, but he's a name to keep in the back of your head, even as a waiver wire pickup.

Washington Redskins WR Santana Moss said Saturday he had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in the offseason, a procedure he said he underwent because the knee had slightly bothered him for three years, but one that won't hold him out beyond this week's voluntary minicamp.

"I had some stuff that was bothering me from years before, and I just decided to get it done," Moss said. "I mean, it's just something that happened a few years ago, and they said whenever I needed surgery to just get it done."

"He'll be ready to go in June, [for the] June minicamp," Shanahan said. "He's been on rehab here for about three months. I'm not going to get into the surgeries or what happened to him, but basically he got cleaned up a little bit. Had a little irritation, and should be no setbacks. Should be ready to go."

Moss can be a frustrating fantasy receiver, catching 120 yards worth of balls one week and then 0 the next. It seems like Moss will be ready to go this season and with new QB Donovan McNabb throwing him the ball, he may even climb the rankings a bit this summer. He's still not better than a WR3.

Buffalo wide receiver James Hardy, who has yet to make any impact with the Bills, was absent from minicamp. Bills head coach Chan Gailey said Hardy was gone due to a personal commitment.

It doesn't seem like Hardy is ever going to develop into anything, but it would be nice for someone to give Lee Evans some help. Maybe retread Chad Jackson, holdover Steve Johnson, or fourth-round pick Marcus Easley can step up, but the Buffalo offense projects to be below average in 2010 and Evans will remain best used as a spot starter.

Vince Young had a career revival in 2009, but he still wants to get better. His goal is to improve his passing when he heads to his left.

"Sometimes I let my hips open up too much and I kind of fling the ball instead of being more balanced and having a good base and good frame in making a better throw to the left,'' Young said. "So that is one of the main things I am working on, keeping the ball higher and not getting too relaxed. It's part of trying to be a complete quarterback.''

Young's fantasy value is hurt by the fact that Chris Johnson carries the Tennessee offense. He's certainly not a great fantasy starter, but can help teams as a backup. He's not a bad guy to have in the bullpen.

Falcons defensive end Lawrence Sidbury, in his second season out of Richmond, is eager to play a large role in improving Atlanta's pass rush.

"We really anticipate that Lawrence will take a big step here this season in year two," Atlanta head coach Mike Smith said.

Atlanta's team defense is usually not coveted by fantasy owners, but they did make some nice moves this offseason, drafting Sean Weatherspoon and signing Dunta Robinson. Given that they'll be playing the Buccaneers and Panthers twice, two teams with young quarterbacks, plus the Browns and the entire NFC West, the Falcons might be a nice number two defense to target in larger fantasy leagues and one to watch on the waiver wire in smaller ones. IDP owners should monitor Sidbury's progress.

Falcons head coach Mike Smith said wide receiver Harry Douglas, who missed the 2009 season with a torn ACL, is supposed to be ready for the start of offseason work on May 25.

Douglas isn't a major fantasy performer, with Tony Gonzalez and Roddy White doing most of the damage in Atlanta, but his presence gives Matt Ryan and the entire Falcon offense another weapon. Atlanta looks like a very fantasy friendly team in 2010.

Baltimore defensive tackle Haloti Ngata indicated he'll be returning to action in roughly 6-8 weeks following surgery to repair a torn left pectoral muscle. The injury was suffered at the Pro Bowl.

“I was actually trying to hurt somebody else and I hurt myself,” Ngata said.

Ngata already has full range of motion and is working to get back to full strength.

No wonder so many people bow out of the Pro Bowl - you can get hurt there. Anyways, it looks like Ngata should be good to go for training camp. The stock of Baltimore's team defense would drop if their talented tackle is out of the lineup, but it sounds like that won't be an issue come August.

Atlanta running back Michael Turner admits he's in much better shape than he was back in 2009, and he's eager to play a major role in leading the Falcons back to the playoffs.

"I was big in the shoulders and the arms," Turner said. "My face was plump."

His head coach has noticed the difference.

"Michael's in better shape than he was at this point a year ago," Atlanta head coach Mike Smith said. "I don't know if conditioning had anything to do with his injury or not and he had his weight where we wanted it at the start of the season. He just got behind in his schedule last year because of the Pro Bowl and he had to work hard to catch up. We talked some about conditioning this year, but it wasn't like I had to order him to focus on it. He already was planning on doing it. He got an earlier start on it this year and it's definitely paid dividends. He looked great out there this morning and I saw him making cuts and looking as sharp as he ever has."

While Turner never offers much as a receiver, a full season from Turner should yield over 1,000 yards rushing and 10-15 touchdowns, making the Burner a solid first-round selection in most fantasy drafts. He scored 10 touchdowns in 2009 despite missing a lot of time due to injury. The Falcons also play the NFC West this season after having to play the NFC East last year, which certainly helps Turner's chances of making a big impact in 2010.

Falcons defensive tackle Peria Jerry still has a noticeable limp on his surgically repaired left knee.

Atlanta running back Jerious Norwood was removed from practice Saturday due to soreness in his hip.

Baltimore offensive tackle Ramon Harewood, who was selected by the Ravens in the sixth round of April's draft, is expected to be sidelined 3-4 weeks after suffering tissue damage in his right knee during Ravens minicamp.

New Orleans head coach Sean Payton says safety Darren Sharper isn't likely to participate in full practices until training camp while he recovers from offseason knee surgery.

"He was in town this past week after he signed, rehabbing and working out, and he'll continue to do that and get himself ready," Payton said. "I think a realistic framework of when we'd expect him to be out practicing would be that training camp date as opposed to the minicamps."

Sharper was a wonderful IDP player last season, intercepting nine passes and scoring three touchdowns, and he's the kind of crafty veteran that doesn't need a lot of practice time to play well. However, it's highly doubtful he'll have the season he had last year, and could be overvalued in IDP leagues. A decline in Sharper's performance would also hurt owners who end up with the Saints defense in non-IDP leagues.

Six-foot-six Saints rookie tight end Jimmy Graham, who played four years of college basketball at the University of Miami, has made a good impression during this weekend's rookie camp.

"If you were just watching he's a been a guy who has stood out," New Orleans head coach Sean Payton said. "He has things to learn but he's willing to do that and he's smart."

Graham played one year of college football at Miami, and according to the Times-Picayune, is "considered an unpolished gem by many draft analysts and general managers."

Jeremy Shockey has never played 16 games in a season and turns 30 in August, so Graham could be a player to watch for the future. He'll have to fight Shockey and Dave Thomas for playing time in 2010, but there is long-term upside with Graham if he can fulfill his early promise.

Since the end of the 2009 season, Santana Moss has had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. As a result, he's sitting out minicamp this weekend, but is expected to be ready to go when Washington gathers for another minicamp next month.

"He'll be ready to go in June," Washington head coach Mike Shanahan said. "He's been on rehab here for about three months. I'm not going to get into the surgeries or what happened to him, but basically he got cleaned up a little bit. Had a little irritation, and should be no setbacks. Should be ready to go."

Moss, who had just three touchdowns in 2009 but produced 902 receiving yards, is expected to be Donovan McNabb's top target among Washington's wide receivers. He won't produce like a superstar, but if McNabb stays healthy he should be an adequate fantasy starter.

The Buffalo News observed that C.J. Spiller was impressive on the first day of minicamp, looking quick and decisive.

"It was great," Spiller said. "I was just really anxious to get back going, I haven't played since the end of December. I was really excited to start back up and be out there with the guys running around and learning the playbook."

The News mentioned that Spiller didn't seem overwhelmed.

"At the end of the day it's still just football to me," the former Clemson star stated. "You still have to get out there and run around. If you have been doing it your whole life, it shouldn't be too hard for you just learning the playbook, so you can play fast, great football and stay on your feet."

Spiller didn't land in the best situation for his fantasy stock, as Fred Jackson will likely get the majority of carries in Buffalo. But he's the kind of player who's going to be very hard to keep off the field and he could produce some big weeks for fantasy owners.

Brian Brohm was the quarterback as Buffalo's first minicamp of the spring kicked off. The camp was for rookies and players with less than two years of experience, but it signals that Brohm will get an opportunity to battle Ryan Fitzpatrick, Trent Edwards, and rookie Levi Brown for the starting quarterback spot in Buffalo. Bills coach Chan Gailey says it's a wide-open competition.

"There's not a first or a third right now," Gailey said. "That's the situation. We're going to go to camp with it being an open deal. If you say that, then it's gotta be. You can't just say it and then get to camp and you already got your mind made up or you stack it up a different way. To me anybody has a chance to win the job right now. That's really the way it is. It's not just lip service."

It's good Gailey is keeping an open mind about his quarterbacks, but Buffalo's starter isn't likely to make much of a fantasy splash. The winner needs to do enough to keep defenses from keying on C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson and also needs to find a way to get Lee Evans the ball, as Evans could make a minor comeback this year with Terrell Owens gone.

Baltimore coach John Harbaugh stated that Reed had a surgical procedure last week. The Baltimore Sun reports the surgery done in Colorado was to repair a torn labrum in his hip that has bothered him since a November game against the Steelers. Rehabilition hasn't been going as well as hoped and Harbaugh said Reed "decided to get the procedure now to give him the best chance to get back for most of training camp and be ready to go for the season."

Reed can be a great IDP player, but owners should be wary of taking him until he proves he's fully healthy. In leagues that utilize team defenses, Baltimore's defense slides a little if Reed isn't in the lineup.

The Houston Texans' defense took a major blow Friday when defensive rookie of the year Brian Cushing learned he is being suspended four games for violating the NFL's steroid policy, according to league sources.

Cushing appealed the league's decision at a hearing at the NFL scouting combine in February but was informed Friday his appeal had been rejected, according to sources.

Cushing will be allowed to participate in training camp with the Texans this summer, but then will serve his four game suspension to start the 2010 regular season.

Colts third-round pick, DB Kevin Thomas, sustained a knee injury during last week’s rookie camp that could cause him to miss this season.

Baltimore WR Mark Clayton said his right shoulder scope went well, should be back practicing in a few weeks.

Jay Cutler is the person who will decide who the team's No. 1 receiver will be, and based on what we saw last year, it seems clear that he has a connection with Devin Aromashodu. Remember how Cutler signalled to Aromashodu and then threw back-shoulder passes against Charles Woodson and the Packers. That's the type of communication that a quarterback has with his No. 1 receiver.

Albert Haynesworth is staying away from another Redskins minicamp.

Haynesworth was absent again Friday when Washington opened its second voluntary minicamp under new coach Mike Shanahan. The two-time All-Pro defensive tackle is unhappy with the Redskins' switch to a 3-4 defense and would prefer to be traded.

Falcons RB Michael Turner practiced today. Falcons HC John Smith had this to say: “It was great to see Michael today. He had a severe ankle sprain last season and it’s great to see him back. He’s in outstanding shape and he reported in at a very good weight. He moved around extremely well in his first day back. The big thing for guys coming off injury is how they can handle back to back practices. We are very optimistic Michael is over that.”

Cleveland Browns President Mike Holmgren clarified remarks he made on draft day about rookie quarterback Colt McCoy not playing in 2010 in an appearance on ESPN2's Mike and Mike in the Morning today. The showed aired live from Progressive Field

"I said, 'perfectly he shouldn't play his first year,''' Holmgren said. "But heck, if he's the guy, he plays.'

Browns coach Eric Mangini also did not completely rule out McCoy for 2010 during rookie camp when he said he learned long ago from Ted Marchibroda to "never say never and never say always. You don't know.''

Both agreed that the plan is still the same: to let McCoy watch how it's done in 2010. But both also know that anything can happen.

We don't like McCoy's chances to be the week 1 starter, then again the idea of Jake Delhomme under center in Cleveland is just plain frightful - remember his 8TD/18INT ratio last year on an otherwise stacked team. If Jake doesn't rebound from last season we see Seneca Wallace as the week 1 starter in Cleveland. But clearly this is a fantasy situation to avoid at all costs.

The Jets will throw more than last season. Ryan already is on record as saying they will pass more. They were the most run-oriented team in the NFL last season, with a run-pass ratio of 59-41. That could dropping to 55-45 or, if Mark Sanchez continues to develop, to 50-50. But it can be a slippery slope, especially with an improved receiving corps. The temptation to open up the offense will be there. No doubt, this will be something to watch.

The Jets have a ton of weapons at their disposal on both sides of the ball. The real question this season will be, will there be enough fantasy love to go around between Mark Sanchez, Shonn Green, Jerricho Cotchery, Braylon Edwards, Dustin Keller, and Santonio Holmes (after week 4).

Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, who missed games because of knee and shoulder injuries, was taking part in all drills and throwing the ball without any problems Thursday.

Broncos HC Josh McDaniels implies that rookie QB Tim Tebow could play quarterback for the Broncos sooner rather than later.

"To me, (Tebow's acumen) gives him an advantage, an opportunity to play earlier than other people have played. Everybody keeps talking about it will be two, three years before he can play, and I think they don't know this guy. His mental capacity, and the way that he works, and the fact that he's on such a fast pace, will give him the chance to compete apples-to-apples.

"It's all going to be about his production and performance. There are a lot of rookies who can't run plays because they can't figure it out yet. That's not going to be the case with Tim. He'll be able to do the things (veterans) do."

Rams QB Sam Bradford and rookie receiver Mardy Gilyard developed instant chemistry on the practice field, says STL Today columnist Jeff Gordon.

The Bengals signed strong safety Gibril Wilson to a one-year contract. Wilson, who is entering his seventh season, started 14 games for Miami last year and had 93 tackles with eight passes defensed. He spent his first four seasons with the Giants before being signed to a big-money deal by Oakland in 2008. He was cut in the offseason to clear cap space.

The scouting report on Wilson is that he is a great run stopper with average coverage skills in two-deep. He also has good form tackling and is pretty good as a pass rusher. ProFootballFocus, which grades players, had him struggling at the beginning of the season (he graded poorly in the first three) before rebounding and playing better late in the season. His season-ending grade of 2.0 ranked 15th among safeties. The top-ranked Bengals safety last year was Chinedum Ndukwe (34th, -0.8).

Adam "Pacman" Jones agreed to a two-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday, putting the troubled cornerback on a team with a history of giving players second chances.

"There is going to be a two-year deal," Tom Hunter, Jones' agent, told The Associated Press on Thursday night. "It's going to be signed Friday or Monday. We don't have (it) in hand yet, but we will."

A league source told NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora that Jones received essentially a veteran-minimum contract with some minor incentives.

TE Brandon Pettigrew, who is coming off a serious knee injury, looked agile today at the Detroit Lions’ organized team activity in Allen Park.

Pettigrew took part in individual drills but sat out the team drills as the Lions practiced in shorts and helmets. Coach Jim Schwartz did not put a definite timetable on their full returns, but he is encouraged by their progress.

“[Pettigrew and RB Kevin Smith] are starting to do individual-type drills,” Schwartz said. “They’re still not even close to being cleared for team work and competitive stuff. They’re not right in the middle of a long-term rehab, but they’re probably more past the middle. But they still have a long way to go."

New York Jets QB Mark Sanchez ran on the treadmill for the first time since his knee surgery Thursday, according to NFL Network’s Lindsay Soto.

Sanchez had a procedure on his left knee Feb. 17 to repair the patella ligament. He said two weeks ago that he hoped to be running on the ground sometime around mid-May, so it appears he’s ahead of schedule.

Sanchez hopes to participate in the Jets’ June 14-16 minicamp. He isn’t in danger of missing training camp.

Seems like there won't be any worries for Sanchez heading into training camp. He'll most likely be drafted as a backup this season, but with potential to be a fantasy starter, perhaps in certain matchups. The tandem of RB Shonn Greene and RB LaDainian Tomlinson still make the Jets and run-first team.

Lions RB Kevin Smith took handoffs and was running, according to John Niyo of the Detroit News. Asked if he'll be ready for training camp Smith said, "Is my name Kevin Smith? There's your answer," Niyo relayed via Twitter.

Smith could be in the mix for the starting running back job, but don't forget the Lions drafted RB Jahvid Best. Best, even as a rookie, is probably the favorite to land the job - even if it's a few weeks into the season.

The Raiders have signed RB Michael Bennett. He played in just 18 games over the last three years, carrying the ball 71 times for 266 yards.

He'll most likely be a third running back with Oakland this season. He hasn't done a whole lot in recent years and that shouldn't change too much this upcoming season.

QB JaMarcus Russell, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 draft, was released by the Raiders, leaving with only seven wins as a starter and over $39M.

Senior executive John Herrera told The Associated Press the move was made Thursday - two weeks after the Raiders traded for Washington's QB Jason Campbell - and that "we wish him well."

Russell, who led LSU to a 10-2 record including a win over Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl, where he was the MVP.

His career with the Raiders didn't start well, either, as he held out of traIning camp, missed the first few weeks of the season before signing a $68 million contract with $31.5 guaranteed.

It doesn't take 4for4.com to tell you that even if Russell finds another home he's going to have little to no fantasy value.

Minnesota DT Vikings Kevin and DT Pat Williams may be forced to serve four-game suspensions even though the NFL is their employer and violated their rights under state labor laws, Hennepin County Judge Gary Larson ruled Thursday.

The players were granted a court hearing and will ask Larson to keep in place a restraining order that allows the Williamses to play pending their appeals.

If the suspension holds, this is a big blow to what is a top-notch fantasy defense, especially at stopping the run. Also, running backs you might otherwise bench could be playable options for any weeks the Wiliamses don't play.

Someone is going to get fired after the Packers drafted Penn State TE Andrew Quarless in the fifth round, and it will likely come down to TE Donald Lee or TE Spencer Havner.

Lee presumably makes too much money ($2 million salary) to serve as the third-string tight end behind starter TE Jermichael Finley and Quarless, so unless he is clearly better than the rookie, his days in Green Bay are numbered. Havner has his own issues after injuring himself in an offseason motorcycle accident.

Finley established himself as the starter last year so this is not really a surprised. Quarless is very talented but it didn't always show at PSU, however, this looks like a money move.

With the St. Louis Rams now two weeks away from beginning OTAs, the identity of RB Steven Jackson’s backup remains unknown. In reality, the Rams need more than just a backup, or a change of pace, as some have suggested, for what Jackson can do.

While the surgery Jackson had is considered “minor” when compared to other more serious back issues, any back surgery can be potentially serious.
Generally, the rehab process after the procedure Jackson had is about eight weeks. Dr. Rick Lehman said the problem can reoccur in about 20 percent of cases involving football players, especially a running back like Jackson that takes a lot of hits.

The Rams will likely accelerate their attempts to add another running back. There is still interest in former Philadelphia Eagles RB Brian Westbrook, who has also has injury concerns, including two concussions he suffered last season. Other free agents available include RB Justin Fargas, RB Jamal Lewis and RB Ladell Betts, but both Lewis and Betts ended the 2009 season on injured reserve, while Fargas has also had knee problems. Buffalo Bills RB Marshawn Lynch has been floated, but he gained just 450 yards last season, and has had off-field incidents.

Monitoring Jackson's progress will be at the top of 'fantasy things to do' lists this summer, especially when considering keepers. Despite not a lot wins, Jackson has still managed to put up very solid fantasy numbers - when he plays. When he doesn't play, his backup has been ineffective for the most part.

Many in the Pittsburgh Steelers organization have spoken out about focusing more on running the football in 2010-11.
It began when Steelers president Art Rooney said in January, "We need to figure out how to get better running the football."
It continued in March when coach Mike Tomlin affirmed his intent to improve his ground game.
"We've got to run the ball more effectively in critical situations because that's how we desire to play football, and it increases our chances of winning," Tomlin said. "It makes us a more dominant football team."
"I predict we'll be more balanced," said WR Hines Ward. "Look for RB Rashard Mendenhall, for us to use a lot of him. Rookie RB Jonathan Dwyer looks like he's coming on strong. Who knows? I would like to be a more-balanced team, I think it complements our defense and makes us a better ball team."

This is obviously good news for those considering protecting Mendenhall in keeper leagues, and should move him up draft boards heading into the summer. It remains to be seen if the running game will still be as big a factor once QB Ben Roethlisberger returns from his suspension.

The Detroit Lions have claimed wide receiver WR Marko Mitchell off waivers from the Redskins, the team has confirmed. Mitchell was expected to be on the field Thursday when the Lions hold their third organized team activity of the off-season.
Mitchell is a 6-foot-4, 218-pounder with good speed was considered a fan favorite in D.C. He only caught four passes for 32 yards in 10 regular-season games last year. He caught 11 passes for 113 yards and three touchdowns in the Redskins’ final three preseason games.

The Redskins drafted him in the seventh round last year out of Nevada, where he put up big numbers after transferring from Mesa (Ariz.) Community College. He caught 53 passes for 1,129 yards and eight touchdowns in 2007, then 61 passes for 1,141 yards and 10 TDs in ’08.

This may not be earth-shattering news, but wide receivers tend to pop up on the waiver wire every year in fantasy football when you least expect. Mitchell seems to have good size and speed and the Lions need help at the position.

The NFL Network's Jason La Canfora things Panthers QB Matt Moore could get some competition this summer. La Canfora sited one team official as saying Clausen drew rave reviews following the team's minicamp last weekend. Right now, it seems the job is still Moore's to lose.

A lot of this could be talk as Moore is no proven commidty and the last thing the Panthers want is lack of competition. But, Moore did play well last year after taking over for injured QB Jake Delhomme, and the team has always been pretty high on him. It's definitely one of the many battles to follow this summer because with WR Steve L Smith as a main target, he can give just about any QB fantasy value.

The main thing Bucs QB coach Alex Van Pelt has learned about QB Josh Freeman, he said, is that, "He’s never a second offender. If you ask him to do something, he corrects it immediately and applies it. The next week, it’s not like, ‘Hey, remember, get your feet right.’ He’s correctable. You say it one time and he’s got it. . . You’re looking for a guy like that. Instead of harping on something, he’s got it. That’s the main thing. Obviously, he’s got all the ability in the world. But the thing I love is that he’s coachable."

That's good news for the Bucs, because Freeman's development is at the center of the club's success on the field this season. Freeman has already called this offseason the biggest of his career because of the opportunity to grow and look back on his nine games of experience.

"His growth from getting in and watching the (film) and everything he did last year -- from there to where he is now, you can see the growth," Van Pelt said. "It’s huge. It’s exponential growth already. And there’s a comfort level, too. Once you’ve been in the system for a year, (you can say), ‘I understand protections, I understand all the issues that go with protections, I understand my reads, my footwork."

Jahri Evans' new deal with Saints, which could be announced today, is richest deal given to a guard, averaging $8.1 million per year.

Cardinals QB Matt Leinart, improved as last week's mini-camp progressed. He was erratic the first day but he settled down and looked in command the last two days.

Baltimore Ravens free safety Ed Reed is expected to play next season after recently having hip surgery that likely will keep him out of this weekend's minicamp, says a league source.

Reed said after January's divisional-round playoff loss to the Indianapolis Colts that he was considering retirement at age 31 following a season filled with neck, hip and groin injuries. He missed four games in December because of the hip injury, then returned for the regular-season finale and two playoff contests.

It’s fair to say Panthers WR Armanti Edwards was, in fact, electrifying in his first minicamp. The coaches saw and the media saw it on the sideline. It was a very promising start. But let’s keep it in perspective for now. This was only one minicamp. Also, it’s key that John Fox abandons his conservative nature and lets offensive coordinator Jeff Davidson be creative with Edwards.

Rams Pro Bowl running back Steven Jackson underwent back surgery in early April to repair a herniated disc he suffered in late November of last season.

"It was a minor procedure," coach Steve Spagnuolo told the Post-Dispatch on Tuesday evening. "He feels great. It's really not a big deal."

But Spagnuolo did say Jackson probably would be held out of at least the start of organized team activities — the full-squad practice sessions that begin May 18 at Rams Park. "Just to be sure," Spagnuolo said.

And there's a chance Jackson could be held out of practices until the start of training camp at the end of July.

Vikings QBs Tavaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels find themselves in an extremely difficult situation this offseason. Many assume that Favre will return in 2010, despite last week's report that he needs ankle surgery. However, if he doesn't Jackson and Rosenfels likely will battle for the starting job and Vikings coach Brad Childress indicated at the NFL Owners meetings in March that Jackson would have the upper-hand entering that competition.

Lions RB Kevin Smith is coming off a torn ACL. A source close to the situation recently said Smith might not be 100 percent until 2011, if ever.

Jaguars HC Jack Del Rio said while there is competition everywhere, it's safe to presume certain guys will be in the lineup, that Maurice Jones-Drew will be the tailback, that David Garrard will be the quarterback.

Nevertheless, the sideline buzz through five minicamp practices has been very much about how smooth, confident and accurate QB Luke McCown looked, and how it contrasts with the still spotty David Garrard.

There is a chance -- some believe a strong chance -- that either Mark Clayton or Demetrius Williams won't make the final cutdown. It's possible that both could get released. There's two factors working against them: Clayton and Williams are making big-money for backups and neither make an impact on special teams (which fourth and fifth receivers need to do).

A league source says it "could take some time" for Terrell Owens to sign a contract. The problem is that, while a number of teams are interested, the financial offers have not yet entered the ballpark that Owens deems to be acceptable.

Patrick Willis has developed into an All-Pro under Hall of Fame linebacker Mike Singletary, and the San Francisco 49ers' coach expects his top defender to become better than he ever was.

Willis is a big deal to the 49ers -- and he earned himself a big new deal Tuesday because of it.

The standout middle linebacker signed a five-year, $50 million contract extension that takes him through the 2016 season and includes $29 million in guaranteed money from the 49ers. He's set to make $10 million per season.

"Wow. It's been a long journey, but it's not over yet. I feel like it's just beginning," Willis said during a news conference at team headquarters. "It means a lot. It shows they really wanted me here -- and it shows what they want and what I want are the same things: to win."

Adam "Pacman" Jones' signing with the Cincinnati Bengals is imminent, according to a league source.

The Bengals and Jones' representative, Ray Savage, had several conversations during the cornerback's visit with the team Tuesday, a league source said, and have the nucleus of a multiyear deal in place.

The sides expect to put the contract to paper this week, and Jones is set to join the team's offseason program Monday. Savage wouldn't comment on the status of talks with the Bengals, but he did confirm that he was in negotiations with the team.

According to the source, Jones was in much better shape than he was early in the offseason, during his initial visit with the team, and he had an impressive workout Tuesday.

Bucs running back/kick returner Clifton Smith has signed his one-year tender as an exclusive rights free agent.

In St. Louis, Sam Bradford did enough to show he could be in competition for a starting job in Week 1. To help Bradford make the conversion from Oklahoma's spread offense, Rams coaches kept him behind center in each of the practices. He did well.

The biggest reason for optimism came from the Bucs' receiving corps. Two rookies -- second-rounder Arrelious Benn and fourth-round pick Mike Williams -- are potential starters. Second-year QB Josh Freeman might have gotten his wish of acquiring new young weapons to help the passing offense. The Bucs could get four or five starters from this draft.

Broncs WR Eric Decker, a third-round draft pick whose collegiate career at Minnesota was cut short last fall because of a ligament sprain in his left foot, hopes to hit the field in June and be able to participate fully by the start of training camp in late July.

Demaryius Thomas, the Broncos' top overall draft pick, broke his left foot doing drills just before the NFL combine. He said he should be able to run routes in two weeks when the veterans and rookies gather for the start of the team's offseason training activities.

Adam Schefter of ESPN says there is zero chance of Broncos QB Brady Quinn being moved. He is and will be a Bronco. Team loves what he's doing.

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Maurice Purify was arrested early Tuesday for disorderly conduct.
The Campbell County Detention Center said that Purify was brought in after 2 a.m. Tuesday after being arrested at Jefferson Hall, a Newport bar.

Seahawks WR Michael Williams returned to USC's campus last November, overweight, unfulfilled and talking about a comeback.

"He came through and said he was going to do this and that," said Carroll, who coached Williams in college. "I kind of didn't think much of it at the time because he was probably 30 pounds heavier than he is right now."

That day marked a turning point in Williams' conditioning, and perhaps his football career. For the past three weeks, the receiver has shown flashes of the talent that once made him a top-10 draft choice. Signed by Seattle to a one-year contract after a tryout in April, Williams is attempting to grab hold of this opportunity to return to the NFL after spending the past two seasons out of the league.

"He's definitely at a place where he's really competitive physically," Carroll said. "It's the best I've seen him since maybe his sophomore year of college. He's very serious about it, so maybe he gets a chance to give us some help."

JaMarcus Russell seemed to regress each day of the minicamp and was throwing line drives at receivers' ankles again.

While Raiders Tom Cable's earlier raves about his progress may have been a bit much, receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey did OK for himself at the minicamp. There were still some drops, but nowhere near as many as at last year's. He even caught a deep pass from Campbell.

After a disappointing rookie season in which the No. 7 pick had nine catches for 124 yards, Heyward-Bey put on 10 pounds (he's now 6-foot-2, 216) working out this offseason. Cable said there has been a big difference in Heyward-Bey's work ethic from when he first came on the scene.

"Night and day," Cable said. "He was one of those guys, when the season got over, he took a very short time off and then was back working. He's with the equipment guys and the trainers, he's getting the Jugs (passing machine) out and 'I want somebody to throw me the ball.' (He) went right to work.

With the start of OTAs two weeks away, it’s still difficult to assess just where Dolphins RB Ronnie Brown is at in his rehab. Coach Tony Sparano was less than forthcoming when asked about him Sunday. The context:

Q: Is Ronnie Brown ready to jump in and do everything in the OTAs and mini-camp?

A: We’ll see. He’s doing pretty well.

Eagles WR DeSean Jackson knows what he's worth, knows that he's probably underpaid, but the Eagles wide receiver said today that he's going to "patiently wait" for a new contract.

"I'm not going to panic," Jackson said today at Franklin Field, where he and teammates Brent Celek and Stewart Bradley were on hand for the unveiling of plans to honor the 50th anniversary of the 1960 championship Eagles team. "I'm not going to sit here and be a crybaby about it. I definitely know what I'm worth."

"Whatever it is I'd be happy with that," Jackson said. "I'm not here to make a big issue out of it or complain about it because that's not what I do. I feel my relationship that I have with the Eagles and the front office is a [good] one and I'm patiently waiting. Hopefully, it will be done sooner than later."

The playing surface at LP Field, home of the Titans, was underwater Monday afternoon as the state of Tennessee experienced some of the worst flooding in memory, according to the Nashville City Paper. The Titans’ locker room also was filled with water.

Titans coach Jeff Fisher told the newspaper that he went out to check the team’s training facility, and while the rising waters were getting close, the practice fields hadn’t been breached. The Titans’ facility has three outdoor practice fields, one indoor practice field, a locker room, a weight room and the team’s executive offices.

The newspaper reported that staffers moved all of the valuable equipment into the indoor training facility and surrounded it with sand bags.

Some in the Pittsburgh Steelers' organization are optimistic that suspended quarterback Ben Roethlisberger could return for organized team activities next month.

The best-case scenario for both sides would be for NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to allow Roethlisberger to return for the final two weeks of OTAs in June. The Steelers expect Roethlisberger to be gone at least for the duration of May, according to a source, and there are no guarantees he would be back for June, but team officials quietly hope he could return by then.

Steelers wide receiver Limas Sweed had surgery today to repair a torn or ruptured Achilles tendon.

The injury occurred to Sweed Sunday during the Steelers' final minicamp practice, which was held in their indoor facility.

The team confirmed the surgery but did not release the specific repair or injury. Coach Mike Tomlin disclosed it as an Achilles tendon injury on Sunday.

According to emedicinehealth.com, a person with such an injury will miss four to six months of activity, however, "With motivation and rigorous physical therapy, elite athletes may return to athletics as early as 3 months after injury."

All-Pro safety Darren Sharper decided Monday to return to the Saints and try for a Super Bowl championship repeat next season.

"He's real motivated to win another Super Bowl," Sharper's agent, Joel Segal, said after his client agreed to a one-year deal. "It's rare to have that opportunity, and he's very excited."

Adam Schefter of ESPN tweeted today that Sharper had microfracture knee surgery this off-season.

TE Alex Smith signed a 1-year deal with the Browns today.

For five practices over three days, Sam Bradford called the play in the huddle, stepped up to the line and (drum roll, please) lined up under center.

Let the transition begin, from spread offense at Oklahoma to pro-style quarterback with the Rams. By all accounts, it was a good start for the No. 1 overall draft pick.

"Sam did a terrific job," offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur said Sunday after the conclusion of the Rams' rookie minicamp. "All the reasons for drafting him were obvious.

"He's very smart. Got a great command of the huddle. He's got great attention to detail. By the end of the weekend, he was repeating things like he got 'em in the installations. And he's very talented. So you take the talent and then the 'work hard' and I think he progressed well in five practices."

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said Sunday he will take his time in sorting out the competition at quarterback.

Byron Leftwich again ran the first-team offense during an abbreviated practice. But after the Steelers concluded mini camp, Tomlin said Dennis Dixon and Charlie Batch will also get work with the starters during the 12 voluntary practices the team will hold May 18 through June 10.

The three are vying to start while Ben Roethlisberger serves a six-game suspension that could be reduced to four games for good behavior.

Tomlin indicated that he won't settle on a starter until some time during training camp, which starts at the end of July.

49ers HC Mike Singletary on WR Ted Ginn :

"More and more every day, as you have coaches coming back, they are saying, 'This guy has a lot more to him than just a return guy. He's going to help our team as a receiver,' "

"The more he gets acclimated, the better he gets at being a receiver, the less we are going to want him doing some of those (other) things. I think it's important to remember he is a receiver."

Lioins rookie RB Javhid Best is expected to be the feature back, but it will be more than a one-man show. To start the season, he likely will share carries with Maurice Morris. When Kevin Smith returns 100 percent from a knee injury, he's expected to split time with Best. In both cases, Best likely will get the bulk of the workload.

Bears OC Mike Martz did not openly endorse the idea of signing a veteran wide receiver to compete with Devin Hester, Devin Aromashodu, Earl Bennett and Johnny Knox.

"I love our receivers, I think that our receiving core will be the strength of this team," Martz said. "You can put that in granite, I can promise you that one. There's not very many things I would say I'm emphatic about, but that one is pretty strong. This will be a strength of this football team. That's a terrific group, it really is."

The four passers the Carolina Panthers have in camp are arguably more talented than any such group they've had. Usually there are guys at the end of the line who you can tell can't play, but all four are competent throwers of the football. Matt Moore's got the experience edge, Jimmy Clausen may be the most accurate, but Hunter Cantwell and Tony Pike are each intriguing in their own way.

"Dez Bryant is an absolute talent, you don't see that many come in and look that good that early," Cowboys HC Wade Phillips said today.

"In 33 years (of coaching) there's not very many that I can say look that talented at their position for a three-day period."

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant twisted his ankle toward the end of Sunday's rookie minicamp practice at Cowboys Stadium.

Bryant, the team's top draft pick, limped to a team huddle and had his left shoe off as he walked gingerly to the team bus. He was not available for comment.

Coach Wade Phillips said Bryant was fine.

Jaguars WR Kassim Osgood looks the part with his height and build, but just doesn’t look natural or comfortable. He’s uncertain coming out of breaks and not crisp. He seems to have a high-step built into his gait and he lacks the sort of smoothness you want in a receiver. Sideline talk among informed observers says the verdict is already in: the free-agent addition from San Diego is strictly an excellent special-teamer.

The bad luck continued today for Steelers wide receiver Limas Sweed, who left the final minicamp practice with what appears to be a serious Achilles tendon injury, coach Mike Tomlin revealed.

Sweed, the team's second-round draft pick in 2008, was mounting a comeback from some emotional issues that caused the Steelers to place him on injured reserve for the final two games of last season.

If the tendon is ruptured, it likely would mean that Sweed could not play in 2010.

Marvin Lewis says Bengals rookie TE Jermaine Gresham was a "pleasant surprise" during Bengals rookie minicamp and is further along than expected.

Titans RB Javon Ringer, a fifth-round pick last year, was the only running backon the field as the Titans practiced twice last week.

With Lendale White traded to the Seahawks, and Chris Johnson training in Florida, the second year RB Javon Ringer knows an opportunity when he sees one. "A lot of things have gone through my mind,'' he said. "During the draft, when LenDale did get traded, my first thought for him was, 'Best luck to LenDale.' And then I pretty much knew C.J. wasn't going to be around, so I knew I was going to be the main running back here.

"My whole mind-set was to make sure I know my assignments and make sure when I am out there I know what I am doing. I just want to make sure people feel comfortable with me in there, and make sure our offense didn't miss a beat.''

When the Titans return to the field in mid-May, undrafted rookies LeGarrette Blount and Stafon Johnson will be there.

Ringer has the edge. Michigan State's second all-time leading rusher put together an impressive training camp last year but was slowed by a back injury and got only eight carries during the season.

Jaguars TE Zachary Miller had a boot on his left foot and did not participate Saturday. Coach Jack Del Rio said Miller's injury is not serious, and the Jaguars are holding the second-year player out for precautionary reasons.

Jaguars WR Mike Sims-Walker gave the practice crowd of 1,587 an early thrill when he one-handed a high pass from QB David Garrard on the sideline. He later caught a long pass and broke free for a big gain.

Whether it was his nerves, his stomach flu, his conditioning or his introduction to the East Coast heat, Joe McKnight had a forgettable first two days as a pro. The former USC running back appeared exhausted during the morning practice on the second day of Jets’ rookie minicamp today. At one point, he was on his hands and knees as trainers applied wet towels on his neck.

McKnight suggested the combination of nerves and a tinge of a stomach virus contributed to his shaky performance. For the second consecutive day, McKnight struggled with pass-catching.

After the afternoon practice, McKnight admitted he "was not in good shape right now." "I'm in okay shape — but not the best," he added. "I can do better." McKnight pledged that he would stay in Florham Park for a few extra days to work out with coaches.

Bucs WR Mike Williams continued to show flashes of being the player the Bucs have billed him as. He made a pair of impressive catches, one of which required him to make a significant adjustment to an underthrown ball. He also continues to show a great burst after the catch.

But remember, these practices are in shorts and players are not wearing pads. The real revelations will come in training camp, when the hitting starts.

Panthers WR Dwayne Jarrett opened minicamp as the No. 2 receiver opposite Steve Smith, but there’s also the reality he might not be here come September after the Panthers drafted three receivers last weekend -- Brandon LaFell and Armanti Edwards in the third round and David Gettis in the sixth.

Rex Ryan would like to see Jets QB Mark Sanchez return to the field for mini-camp in mid-June.

Cardinals RB Tim Hightower is still running with the first string with Beanie Wells second. Again, Beanie is going to get a ton of carries this season, so it’s basically a moot point, but I know there are fans out there who want to know.

Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski returned to the football field yesterday feeling healthy for the first time in nearly two years as he took part in the first day of rookie minicamp held at Gillette Stadium. He said health concerns are “all in the past.’’

The Cardinals quarterbacks looked good today. Clearly Derek Anderson and John Skelton have arm strength to put some heat on their passes. Whisenhunt said he wants to see how all the QBs react once the defense starts working in more blitzes and the like.

The Eagles 2nd year RB Lesean McCoy has grown up quickly. He's had no choice. With his mentor Brian Westbrook gone, McCoy is the Eagles' go-to running back. And his approach in the months leading up to this post-draft mini-camp has earned rave reviews from offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg.

"It's just 180 degrees different," Mornhinweg said in comparing McCoy's rookie year to now. "He's very, very good right now. He's in shape. He's got a year under his belt. He's teaching the younger guys. I think he feels pretty comfortable, pretty confident right now within this offense, and all of the things he's learned over the past year."

There’s no question that Chiefs WR Dexter McCluster is going to be lined up all over the field in 2010. His first two days in Kansas City are already a testament to that.

On Friday, McCluster went through individual and team drills with the wide receivers and on Saturday he jumped in those same drills with the running backs. Each of the days, he’s also added special teams return duties to his workload.

Bengals siixth-round pick WR Dez Briscoe did not participate in the afternoon session with a groin injury. Offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski said Briscoe looked good in Friday’s first practice but needs to lose at least 10 pounds to get in better shape.

Raiders WR Chaz Schilens is sitting out practice because of a postseason surgery on his left foot.

Seahawks coach Pete Carroll complimented RB Lendale White's conditioning.

"He looks great," Carroll said. "He's 218. I can't remember him ever being that light. I don't think he was that light when we recruited him way back when."

Well, it was a good story when it first surfaced. It would have been even better if it had been, you know, accurate.

Police in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania has issued a statement confirming that Jets receiver Santonio Holmes was not removed from a flight at Pittsburgh International Airport on Thursday night. Here's the full text: "As previously reported, Santanio Holmes was NOT removed from any airplane (4/29/2010). He was asked to remove his Ipod (at one point), in which he complied. There's no further information to report."