THIS IS THE END

Well, it's been a good run, peaking at points last year, but sadly for theendzoneview, life is getting way too busy to keep it up on a daily basis. Time is at a premium with a brand new baby, school and work and a blog without daily updates does not have any chance of keeping a reader base.

It was fun, but this is the end.

Steve McNair 1973-2009

Remember him for his play on the field and his work in the community, and not for the sordid details surrounding his demise.

Rest in Peace Steve. You'll be missed.

getty images, us presswire

Rock Flag and Eagle! - theendzoneview will be back after the 4th

I’m gonna rise up, gonna kick a little ***
Gonna kick some *** in the USA
Gonna climb a mountain, gonna sew a flag, gonna fly on an eagle
I’m gonna kick some butt, gonna drive a big truck
I’m gonna rule this world, I’m gonna kick some ***
I’m gonna rise up, gonna kick a little ***
Rock, flag, and eagle!

Adrian Peterson Stops Here!

Adrian Peterson has averaged 6.29 yards per carry against the division rival Green Bay Packers in four career games. Considering one of those games he left early injured, that is an astounding number. By contrast, AP rushed for over 200 yards his rookie year against the Bears yet his YPC is less than that against the Packers. (Surprisingly the Lions have been the most stout in the division against Peterson yielding a 4.85ypc)

This year the Packers hired a new defensive coordinator, Dom Capers, and pledged to revamp the defense switching from a 4-3 to a 3-4 in an effort to slow down the rushing champ and regain the edge in the division. To do so the Packers will put 972 lbs on the front line in the form of Ryan Pickett at NT, flanked by defensive ends Cullen Jenkins and rookie BJ Raji. Running through the Packers new defense will prove challenging to say the least. Patroling the edges in the new 3-4 scheme will be Aaron Kampann, a converted DE in the 4-3 and Jeremey Thompson on the other side, with rookie Clay Mathews rotating in. Shall Adrian Peterson break through the front line, he'll be met in the middle by Nick Barnett and/or AJ Hawk.

The Packers front seven is locked and loaded, waiting for their chance to un-crown the King of Rushing and reclaim the division.

photo courtesy of nflminute.com

RIP Michael

Despite your opinions on the scandals that plagued his recent years, there's no denying that Michael Jackson was an ICON:

Division With the Best QB's: NFC North?

Once Brett Favre joins the Minnesota Vikings, and let's be honest it's going to happen, the NFC North will boast the best quarterbacks in any division in football. The Packers and Aaron Rodgers, the Bears and Jay Cutler and the Vikings and Favre. The Lions will be the caboose on this train, but rookie Matthew Stafford has the tools and the go to receiver to join the ranks sooner than later.

Perenially the NFC Norris has been a catalysm of despair when it comes to the quarterback position, save for the last decade of Brett Favre in Green Bay. Recently, the Bears have fielded by the underwhelming trio of Orton/Grossman/Griese, the Lions were saddled with Joey Harrington and the Vikings were committed to Tavaris Jackson and Brad Johnson. Although they all had their moments of deceny they were all by and large unsuccessful in the NFL. The NFC North was dominated by the running games and defense, inline with the historic image of the division.

But now as 2009 rolls around, the passing game will rule the division. Sure, the running game will still be vital to any team winning the division, but gone are the 10-6 games. We'll be seeing some shootouts in the ol' NFC North, something we haven't had for quite some time.

32 Players That Won't Be Back With Their Current Teams in 2010

AFC EAST
Miami Dolphins - Jason Taylor, LB
When you date a girl for a long time, then break up with her to see somebody else, only to get back with the first girl a year later, it's never as good as you remembered, is it? Then you ask yourself why did I think it would be different and you can't wait to leave again. That's Jason Taylor's 2009 season in a nutshell.

New York Jets - Thomas Jones, RB
If Shonn Greene looks great at the outset of training camp, the Jets may entertain offers for the disgruntled running back, but I bet he plays for the Jets this year and is released the day after the season ends so the Jets can avoid his $3million roster bonus and $2 millon salary in the final year of his deal.

New England Patriots - Fred Taylor, RB
Taylor is making $3 million this year and is schedule to make $2 million in 2010, but his lackluster play, age and pay will make him expendable next season

Buffalo Bills - Terrell Owens, WR
If the Bills were smart they wouldn't even consider Owens for a second tour of duty. The honeymoon is always great with TO, it's the marriage that causes problems.

AFC NORTH
Baltimore Ravens - Willis McGahee, RB
If not for his cap charge, he'd already be gone, but his 2010 salary is 6 times his 2009 salary and it only goes up from there.

Cleveland Browns - Braylon Edwards, WR
The Browns were unable to trade Edwards this off-season and they don't have any inclinations of signing him long term. They'll apply the franchise tag and trade him next off-season. They're hoping for a good but not great season.

Cincinatti Bengals - Chad Ochocinco, WR
Two years after he cried about leaving, Ochocinco's increasing age and pay and declining play will make 2o09 his last year in Cincy

Pittsburgh Steelers - Willie Parker, RB
Rashard Mendenhall takes over as the Steelers starting running back for good by mid-season making Parker expendable in a contract year

AFC SOUTH
Indianapolis Colts - Gary Brackett, LB
Although he's the defensive captain, his play has been diminishing over the years and last year's injury plagued season doesn't help his cause for a new contract in 2010

Tennessee Titans - Kyle VanDenBosch, DE
Bosch hit the 30 wall hard missing 6 games last year and now has to play this year without Albert Haynesworth drawing blockers away from the edge.

Jacksonville Jaguars - Torry Holt, WR
The Jags have plenty of young receivers that they like and Holt's 2009 will prove that he just doesn't have it anymore

Houston Texans - Chris Brown, RB
The oft injured RB is the oldest and less effective the Texans have on the roster giving them absolutely no reason to give him a new deal

AFC WEST
Denver Broncos - Champ Bailey, CB
Bailey is scheduled to earn nearly $10 million in 2010, the last year of this deal. Don't think so.

San Diego Chargers - Chris Chambers, WR
Chambers looked right at home after he was traded from Miami to San Diego, but 2008 saw the emergence of Vincent Jackson, which left Chambers with only 33 receptions, exactly half of his 2007 total. He'll be 32 in 2010 and a free agent.

Kansas City Cheifs - Larry Johnson, RB
With $6+million due in 2010, LJ will have to rebound and have a Priest Holmes type season to stick around. Won't happen.

Oakland Raiders - Kirk Morrison or Thomas Howard, LB's
One of these guys won't be coming back to Oakland in 2010 and if the Raiders elect to not use their franchise tag, they could lose both.

NFC EAST
Washington Redskins - Antwan Randle-El, WR
With over $10 million owed in 2010, it's safe to say this is Randle-El's last year to underwhelm the fans in Washington

Philadelphia Eagles - Sheldon Brown, CB
Brown's contract calls for $2.5 million in 2010 then rises, but with his absence from OTA's and displeasure with his contract, a trade will happen by draft day

Dallas Cowboys - Miles Austin, WR
Austin either plays extremely well and demands an exorbinant contract the Cowboys can't afford or he fails miserably and the Cowboys let him test the free agent waters.

New York Giants - Lawrence Tynes, K
Despite the 5 year extension, Tynes will have a woeful start to the season and the Giants will once again turn to 60 year old John Carney to save the team

NFC North
Minnesota Vikings - Brett Favre, QB
I know he's not officially with the team already, but another injury in 2010 while wearing the purple and gold finally makes Favre retire

Green Bay Packers - Donald Driver, WR
Driver is complaining about a contract that pays him 12 times as much as Greg Jennings. With so many young WR's on the roster, the Packers let Driver go in 2010

Chicago Bears - Brian Urlacher, LB
The face of the franchise no more now that Jay Cutler is in town. His dimishing skills can no longer be ignored

Detroit Lions - Daunte Culpepper, QB
Culpepper gets replaced by Stanton early in the year and the Lions don't look back.

NFC SOUTH
New Orleans Saints - Reggie Bush, RB
Pierre Thomas outplays Reggie Bush again and the Saints make the tough choice

Atlanta Falcons - Mike Peterson, LB
The Falcons look to upgrade the weakside of the line backers group in 2010

Carolina Panthers - Julius Peppers, DE
Peppers finally gets out of Carolina

Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Antonio Bryant, WR
The Bucs don't give Bryant a long term offer to his liking and he complains his way out of Tampa

NFC WEST
St. Louis Rams - Marc Bulger, QB
After two straight lousy seasons, the pressure is on for Bulger to earn his money

Arizona Cardinals - Anquan Boldin, WR
Boldin plays pissed and finds a way out of the desert in 2010

Seattle Seahawks - Deion Branch, WR
Finally the Seawhawks bite the bullet and rid themselves of this awful contract

San Francisco 49ers - Nate Clements, CB
Clements salary doubles in 2010 and rises from then on for the lifetime of the contract. His pay doesn't even come close to his play.

Dynasty Outlook: NFC South RB's

AFC Running Backs can be found here:

http://www.theendzoneview.com/2009/05/dynasty-outlook-afc-runningbacks.html

NFC East Running Backs here:

http://www.theendzoneview.com/2009/06/dynasty-outlook-nfc-east-running-backs.html

Now onto the NFC South and our continuing coverage of the dynasty outlooks of all running backs in the NFL.

ATLANTA FALCONS

1. Michael Turner age 27, contract: signed through 2013

2. Jerious Norwood age 25, contract: CONTRACT YEAR

3. Jason Snelling age 25, contract: one year deal

4. Thomas Brown age, contract: signed through 2011


In his first year as a starter, Michael Turner became an instant top 5 valuable running back. His 375 carries doesn't bode well for long term value, but it's widely expected that the Falcons will let down the throttle a bit as they head into 2009. Turner's value will continue to rise as long as Matt Ryan continues to progress. The only question for the Falcons backfield, is who would be the ideal handcuff. Norwood is garnering early hype as a player that could take a few carries away from Turner, but nothing that would give him stand alone value. Snelling and Brown will battle for the last roster spot.

Dynatsy Outlook:

Turner: EXTREMELY HIGH VALUE, 3+ years

Norwood: HANDCUFF

Snelling: NO VALUE

Brown: NO VALUE

CAROLINA PANTHERS

1. DeAngelo Williams age 26, contract: signed through 2010

2. Jonathan Stewart age 22, contract: signed through 2012

3. Mike Goodson age 22, contract: rookie

4. Jamall Lee age 22, contract: rookie

One of the biggest debates raging on fantasy forums is the true value of DeAngelo Williams. After his montrous 1500+ yard, 18 TD season, there's definitely some doubt whether he can be just as dangerous. With Jonathan Stewart going into his second season, common sense will tell you that the Panthers will hope to get him more involved. His rookie season saw JStew continually nagged with injuries, which in turn opened the door for DeAngelo to bust onto the scene. The Panthers run the ball enough to make both backs valuable, but the definition of that value may and will turn on a dime in 2009. I expect the Panthers to lean heavily on DeAngelo once again this year, then go for more of a transition movement in 2010, when Williams is in the last year of his deal.

Dynasty Outlook:

Williams: HIGH SHORT TERM VALUE, 2011

Stewart: LONG TERM VALUE

Goodson: STASH

Lee: NO VALUE

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

1. Pierre Thomas age 24, contract: RFA in 2010

2. Reggie Bush age 24, contract: signed through 2011 but is due $20 mill last two years

3. Mike Bell age 26, contract: signed one year deal

4. PJ Hill age 22, contract: rookie

Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush have been deemed 1 and 1A on the depth chart, but their play in 2009 will go along way in the Saints determining who will be the main man in 2010. Reggie Bush of course has the big money rookie deal, but Reggie won't be seeing his astronomical salaries in 2010 or 2011 which means re-negotiation. Pierre Thomas has proved to be equally valuable and is making a scant $500,000 in 2009, but will be a RFA in 2010. Something's got to give. From a fantasy perspective, your guess is as good as mine who has the better long term value. We'll know alot more next off-season. I'll bet on Thomas.

Dynasty Outlook:

Thomas: HIGH for this year

Bush: MID VALUE for this year

Bell: NO VALUE

Hill: NO VALUE

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

1. Earnest Graham age 29, contract: signed through 2012

2. Derrick Ward age 28, contract: signed through 2012

3. Clifton Smith age 23, contract: RFA in 2010

4. Carnell Williams age 27, contract: signed through 2010

First of all, I know I'll get some heat puting Earnest Graham #1 on the depth chart, but it's anybody's guess how the Bucs will share the work load with Graham and Ward. I'd assume that they'd use Graham (ala Brandon Jacobs) and Ward (ala Derrick Ward). But at age 28 and 29, neither provides much dynasty value. If I had to pick a Buc RB to own in a dynasty league, it would be Clifton Smith. If you're still waiting for Carnell Williams to make a fantasy impact, you sir, must hate yourself.

Dynasty Outlook:

Graham: ONE YEAR VALUE

Ward: ONE YEAR VALUE

Smith: STASH
Williams: NO VALUE

Jay Cutler Side Steps a Huge Land Mine

Let's face it, Jay Cutler didn't look all that mature as he talked his way out of Denver. And although he may have been struggling to exit the mud of crap he created, he came out of it smelling like roses as he finagled his way to Chicago. So with his history of seemingly speaking before thinking, a Chicago Sun Times reporter was hoping to stir a bucket of crazy at the Bears facility today when he was asked about the possiblity of the team adding a star receiver like Plaxico Burress or his ex-teammate Brandon Marshall.

His reponse?

"I'm 100 percent comfortable [with the wide receivers], I think we added some depth with some younger guys and then some of the older veterans are stepping up and playing well. So I think we've got more than enough to compete.''

Of course, that's what any QB leading his team SHOULD say and Jay Cutler, maybe showing a sign of maturity answered the question perfectly. Of course, I'm sure Lovie Smith and Jerry Angelo reminded everyone in the organization not to talk specificly about players under contract with other teams, but Culter could have easily replied "we're always looking for a way to improve our team" and a hailstorm would have started brewing in Chicago by midday.

When pressed further if the Bears had a No 1 receiver, Culter repsonded:

"I think we've got one. I think we've got one in Devin, and I think Earl is going to be dangerous on the back side as well."

Bravo Mr. Cutler, Bravo.

photo courtsey of (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Owen Daniels Signs Tender, Still Waiting For His Big Deal

Owen Daniels is widly regarded as one of the better young TE's in the game. The last two seasons he finished 6th, then 5th in both receptions and yards for TE's. He's only 26 and the Texans second target after AJ. While the Texans are floating to the press that he turned down a deal making him the 2nd highest paid tight end, we don't know the details of the offer. It could have been scant on guaranteed money. It could have been heavily backloaded, meaning he wouldn't most likely see the big money. It could have been laden with high to reach escalators. We just don't know. Daniels has two less catches and 166 more yards than Dallas Clark the past two seasons yet Clark's is making $11mill this year including a signing bonus and 4+mill through 2013 compared to Daniels $2mill tender. Clark signed a 6 year/$36 million contract in 2008 and is to receive $27 million of that within the first three years of the deal. Clark is 30, so Daniels deal should and will be bigger than that.

Owen Daniels just played out his rookie deal so at age 26, this is his only chance at a huge payday. He and his agent better get it right.

photo courtesy of sfgate.com

The Marshall Plan

Last week I made the case to forget Brandon Marshall http://www.theendzoneview.com/2009/06/forget-brandon-marshall.html

This week Marshall is trying to his best to recoup his fantasy value by getting the hell out of Rocky Mountains.  Amid a plethora of legal issues, the Denver Post reports that Marshall had a one on one meeting with team owner Pat Bowlen which ended with the star receiver leaving the premises carrying a couple of moving boxes and demanding a trade.  The exit of Jay Cutler and his distrust with the Broncos training staff to treat his ailing hip are the main reasons that prompted the move.  For his part, reportedly Bowlen asked Marshall to take some time and reconsider his position.

By all accounts, Marshall will stick to his guns and officially ask for his trade.  Already trading partners are being tossed about with the Chicago Bears a fit on paper, but probably not realistic as I doubt Jerry Angelo would be willing to give even more draft picks to the Broncos.  ProFootballTalk recently passed along a nugget that the Baltimore Ravens will express heavy interest if Marshall becomes available.

It remains to be seen if the new Broncos coaching staff can avoid the pitfalls that lead to the unfortunate circumstances that forced the trade of Jay Cutler, but a new destination would instantly boost Marshall's flailing fantasy value.  In the words of Brad Childress, stay tuned.

photo courtesy of andrewmason.com

When do you draft Ochocinco?

I wonder if there are any Chad Ochocinco believers still out there.  I for one was never a fan.  Chad is the poster boy for inconsistency and while his end of the year totals were used by his apologist to make an argument for WR1 consideration they never really told the whole story.  Chad Johnson (as he was known back then) would string together some lackluster performances and right when you gave up on him, he'd come through with an astounding 3 TD game and he'd make you believe in him all over again.  Of course he followed up that monster effort with successive clunkers and repeated the process one more team before seasons end.  While no receiver is dependable by nature, the peaks and valleys of Chad's fantasy line is nothing short of legendary.

By his own accord, Ochocinco bailed on the 2008 season after bemoaning his contract situation during the off-season in Cincinatti.  When Carson Palmer fell to injury, the bad times got infinitely worse.  With TJ Houshmandzadeh opting for the confines of the Pacific Northwest fr 2009 all signs point to Chad Ochocinco once again being Palmer's primary target and the Bengals go to receiver.  Somewhere along the line his antics took over this production and all of Cincinatti is now hoping for a more balanced Chad as the 2009 season looms.  Laveraneous Coles was signed to man the opposite side and Chris Henry has been filling in for Chad while he skipped OTA's and will battle for slot duties.  But now Chad is back, but his fantasy value is a huge question mark more than ever.

He's currently being selected as a WR18 at fantasyfootballcalculator.com and perhaps the dearth of defined WR2's, Carson Palmer's health and Chad's once luminous history is driving his value up.  The three players being taken just ahead of him are far safer bets.  Seattle's Houshmandzadeh (more talented and more value especially in PPR), Dallas' Roy Williams (tremendous upside as he attempts to replicate TO's role) and Braylon Edwards (one year removed from one of the best fantasy seasons by a WR).  Being drafted immediately after Ochocinco are young and promising receivers such as Vincent Jackson, Santonio Holmes and DeSean Jackson.

It's of course a matter of personal preference of why someone would want Chad Ochocinco over that trio of young up and coming receivers.  Is the chance of a 32 year old receiver recapturing his glory days (which could be argued weren't all that glorious to begin with) higher than that of a second or third year receiver breaking out?  If you're one of those people like me that would take VJAX, Holmes and DeSean over Chad, do you continue to pass him over for the likes of other teams secondary and younger targets (Anthony Gonzales, Eddie Royal, Lee Evans)?  

I can't imagine going into a fantasy season as Chad Johnson as my WR2, but there seems to be plenty of people right now willing to do so.  Chad was perennially overdrafted in the past, and nothing seems to have changed.

Go Lakers!!!!!!!!

Randy Newman - I Love L.A.

I know this is a football site, but I got to make a post for my boys.  Now hopefully they don't burn LA to the ground tonight.

photo courtesy of the los angeles times

Dynasty Outlook: NFC East Running Backs

The entire AFC Running Backs can be found here: http://www.theendzoneview.com/2009/05/dynasty-outlook-afc-runningbacks.html

I initially planned a large article for the NFC's, but instead I'll roll them out division by division. First up is the NFC East.

DALLAS COWBOYS

1. Marion Barber age 25, contract: signed through 2014 but is backloaded with unmanageable salaries in 2012 and on

2. Felix Jones age 22, contract: signed through 2012
3. Tashard Choice age 24, contract: signed through 2011

The 'Boys employ one of the youngest trio of running backs in the NFL and despite declaring Marion Barber as the full time starter, Jerry Jones drafted two rookies in 2008 to back him up and learn the system. Barber exploded out of the gates and was gearing up for a career year when injuries started to mount. Insert Felix Jones who was originally expected to contribute right away and provide a spark here and there in the running game. As a rookie, Felix showed the speed and versatility that made him so valuable in college before succumbing to his own set of nagging injuries. The Cowboys then turned to late round draftee Tashard Choice and they quickly found that they had a trio of talented running backs they could utilize in the upcoming year. Barber remains the most valuable, but his dynasty value isn't near as high as it was heading into the previous year. All three are more than capable but what makes them all great on the football field, will stifle their production in fantasy circles

Dynasty Outlook
Barber: LOW CEILING BUT LOW FLOOR, 3 MORE YEARS OF SOLID PRODUCTION
Jones: HANDCUFF

Choice: STASH

NEW YORK GIANTS

1. Brandon Jacobs age 26, contract: signed through 2012

2. Ahmad Bradshaw age 23, contract: signed through 2010

3. Danny Ware age 24, contract year

4. Andre Brown age 22, contract: rookie

Brandon Jacobs was the beast we all knew he'd be in his first season as "the man". Jacobs was a TD machine and while Derrick Ward looked very servicable as his change of pace partner, there was no doubt who the most valuable running back for the Giants was. Ward wasn't re-signed and left for Tampa Bay, but no problem, the Giants already have Ahmad Bradshaw groomed and ready to go. He's only signed for two years though so to push him, they wasted no time and drafted Andre Brown to compete with holdover Danny Ware for spots 2-4 behind Jacobs. Neither of the three will dip enough into Jacob's workload to worry dynasty owners however.

Dynasty Outlook:

Jacobs: THREE MORE YEARS OF SOLID PRODUCTION

Bradshaw: HANDCUFF with upside

Ware: STASH in deep leagues

Brown: STASH

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

1. Brian Westbrook age 29, contract: signed through 2013 but can be voided in 2012

2. Lorenzo Booker age 24, contract: signed through 2010

3. LeSean McCoy age 20, contract: rookie

As you all know, Brian Westbrook underwent ankle surgery this past week and there are varying reports on the severity of the surgery. Early reports indicated that Westbrook would need up to 3 months to rehab while others claimed that he'd even be ready for training camp. Regardless, the writing is on the wall that Westbrook won't be playing forever, but perhaps his demise isn't drawing near as some fear. LeSean McCoy was drafted to be the successor, but how do you succeed a franchise player? Guess we'll find out. As it stands now, McCoy still has to leap Lorenzo Booker who is entering his second season in the Eagles offense.

Dynasty Outlook:

Westbrook: VALUE DIMINISHING, LAST YEAR AS ELITE RB

Booker: LIMITED VALUE

McCoy: HIGH CEILING

WASHINGTON REDSKINS

1. Clinton Portis age 27, contract: signed through 2013 with large cap charges through 2011

2. Ladell Betts age 29, contract: signed through 2013

3. Rock Cartwright age 29, contract: signed through 2010

4. Anthony Aldridge age 25, contract: signed through 2010

Clinton Portis was used and abused as the Redskins lead back and the pre-preseason hype for Betts has already begun. Ideally Jim Zorn would like to lessen Portis' load, especially earlier in the year but so far no one else has gained the coaches trust to handle the carries. Portis at age 27 is running out of tread fast on his tires and his fall from fantasy elite will be harsh. The Skins better hope it's not this year because the only guy they have on their roster under the age of 25 is Broncos cast-off Anthony Aldridge.

Dynasty Outlook:

Portis: TWO MORE YEARS OF SOLID PRODUCTION

Betts: HANDCUFF only

Cartwright: NO VALUE

Aldridge: LITTLE TO NO VALUE

Forgetting Brandon Marshall

I'll preface this article by declaring that I was a huge proponent of drafting Brandon Marshall last year, even before his two game suspension was reduced to one. After a breakout 102 reception, 1,325 yard, 7 TD 2008, Marshall was looking like a for sure bet to have a career year in his 3rd season. A 18 catch, 166 yard, 1 TD effort in Week 2 to kick of his 2008 season solidified Marshall as a top tier WR. Marshall unfortunately was unable to keep the pace he set the first three games he played, and was unable to set his career marks falling just short in every category in comparison to his previous year.

Unfortunately 2009 begins just as 2008 had for Marshall. Plagued by legal woes and the possibility of yet another suspension to start the season although reports indicate that Marshall will avoid such a penalty. Marshall's off field issues will eventually take a toll on the young receiver as he prepares for a new season without pro bowl quarterback Jay Cutler. A new offensive scheme, head coach and quarterback would be hard enough for a star player to deal with, but compounding the learning curve with time spent with lawyers and interviews to declare your innocence and new found maturity is nothing more than a detriment.

Brandon Marshall will be hard pressed to duplicate his 2008, and while he finished last season with less than anticipated numbers, 104/1,265/6, those numbers will no doubt be his ceiling for 2009. A 85/950/5 line seems more realistic. Still, Marshall is currently being drafted as a high end WR2, currently a WR14 at fantasyfootballcalculator. He's being drafted amongst the likes of Terrell Owens, TJ Houshmandzadeh, Wes Welker and Roy Williams. The dearth of top end talent at the WR position will most likely keep Marshall's value afloat, but I'd be very wary of expecting too much from what's looking obviously like a down year. I'll be passing thank you very much. He'll bring you nothing but infant sorrow.

Draft Board Shake-Up: Westy To Get Surgery

Philadelphia Eagles.com has reported that Brian Westbrook will indeed have surgery this Friday.  The start of training camp started typically enough with Westbrook being limited and with this being Westbrook and the timing of the off-season, the initial news was greeted by yours truly as ho-hum, no big deal.  Well, as it turns out, it's a big freaking deal.

The Eagles leading rusher will undergo surgery to remove bone spurs in his ankle, with a time-table of three months of rehab.  So, say goodbye to any training camp or pre-season action.  Of course, Westbrook is a veteran and the offense is unchanged so his absence probably isn't all that concerning, still the Eagles would undoubtedly prefer him to be in there.  Now the fantasy world is faced with some discerning questions regarding the Eagles backfield:

Q: Is Westbrook still a top 10 selection following this news?

A: His ADP was 1.07 according to fantasyfootballcalculator and this news will definitely push him down on draft boards.  At age 30, he's even more of a question mark now than he already was.  I would feel very uneasy taking him any earlier than the end of the 2nd, beginning of the 3rd and even then I would have a tough time taking him over a top tier WR or a RB like Brandon Jacobs or Marion Barber.

Q: Who is 2nd on the Eagles depth chart?

A: Rookie LeSean McCoy and Lorenzo Booker will vie for the handcuff title and now have plenty of opportunity to show what they have.  McCoy will most likely be the popular selection in fantasy drafts, but lets not forget that this will be Booker's second year in the system and Andy Reid and company traded for Booker two years ago.  Whoever picks up the blitz packages better probably wins.

Q: How does this news affect McNabb's value?

A: McNabb is currently a QB8 and I don't really see anybody below him that would jump him with this news.  His outlook for 2009 does take a slight hit, but Westy is only missing training camp, not the season.  Plus, he still has plenty of offensive weapons with Kevin Curtis, DeSean Jackson and rookie Jeremy Macklin.

Q: I have Westbrook in a dynasty league and I was hoping to trade him, am I screwed?

A: Yes

Vacation is Almost Over

Be back real soon, promise

DYNASTY OUTLOOK: AFC Runningbacks

A team by team breakdown on the DYNASTY VALUE of every running back in the NFL.  AFC this week, NFC next week.

AFC East

Buffalo Bills

1. Marshawn Lynch age 23, contract: signed through 2011

2. Fred Jackson age 28, contract: signed new 4 year deal with 2.2 mill to be paid in the first year

3. Dominic Rhodes age 30, contract: signed 2 year deal, but could be released following 2009

4. Xavier Omon age 24, contract: signed through 2011

After Lynch's 1200 yard, 7 TD rookie campaign there were high hopes for the 2009 season. While Lynch was utilized in the passing game as promised, the emergence of Fred Jackson as a change of pace back greatly depreciated his stats. Heading into 2009 facing a three game suspension, Fred Jackson has the opportunity to make this even more of a shared backfield which greatly reduces Lynch's long term value.   Still at age 23, Lynch still has time to realize his potential.

Dynasty Outlook

Lynch - BUY LOW

Jackson - HANDCUFF

Rhodes - LIMITED VALUE

Omon - NO VALUE

Miami Dolphins

1. Ronnie Brown age 27, CONTRACT YEAR

2. Ricky Williams age 32, CONTRACT YEAR

3. Patrick Cobb age 26, contract: signed through 2010

The Wildcat may have rejuvenated his value, but Ronnie Brown ended the year with only 1100 total yards and 10 TD's, hardly top tier numbers. At age 27 and a history of injuries, Ronnie's dynasty value isn't that great. A contract year does make 2009 look like a good chance for a solid season and if that does happen, I'd shop Ronnie quick and max out his value. Ricky wants to play for two more years but it won't be with the Dolphins and the only other RB on the club is Patrick Cobb so the future in Miami is precarious at best.

Dynasty Outlook

Brown - HOLD, THEN TRADE HIGH NEXT YEAR

Williams - HANDCUFF

Cobb - NO VALUE

New England Patriots

1. Sammy Morris, age 32, contract: signed through 2010

2. Fred Taylor age 33, contract: signed through 2010

3. Laurence Maroney age 24, contract: signed cheaply through 2010

4. Kevin Faulk age 32, contract: last year of deal at 2.9 mill

5. BenJarvus Green-Ellis age 23, contract: signed cheaply through 2010

It's anybody's guess how the Patriots depth chart is going to look Week 1, or week to week for that matter. The top three can and will be rearranged depending on the health of each running back. As it looks now if everyone survives camp healthy, BJGE could be the odd man out despite being the youngest. Sammy Morris, Fred Taylor and Kevin Faulk are all over the age of 32. And while Faulk's contract is higher than the other two, he's also more valuable on the field. If Morris wasn't beloved by Belichick, I'd deem him the most likely to go.

Dynasty Outlook

Maroney - BUY LOW

Morris - YEAR TO YEAR

Taylor - YEAR TO YEAR

Faulk - YEAR TO YEAR

Green-Ellis - CUT BAIT

New York Jets

1. Thomas Jones age 30, contract: LAST YEAR, 5.8 mill due for 2010 season

2. Leon Washington age 26, contract: in negotiations

3. Shonn Greene, age 23, contract: rookie

Thomas Jones is wisely sitting out camp as he won't see a dime of his large 2010 salary despite leading the team in yards and TD's last year. Faced with the possiblity of Thomas Jones holding out, Leon Washington is also wisely doing the same as he enters the final year of his deal. Shonn Greene was drafted to replace Thomas Jones sooner than later.

Dynasty Outlook

Greene - HIGH CEILING

Jones - FALLING

Washington - HANDCUFF 

AFC WEST

Denver Broncos

1. Knowshon Moreno age 21 , contract: rookie

2. Correll Buckhalter age 30, contract: signed through 2012, 1.8 mill guaranteed

3. JJ Arrington age 26, contract: signed through 2012, 1.8 mill guaranteed

4. Lamont Jordan age 30, contract: signed through 2010, $500,000 guaranteed

5. Ryan Torain age 22, contract: signed cheaply through 2011

6. Peyton Hillis age 23, contract: signed through 2011

One of the messier situations got a little clarity (at least for the future) with the drafting of Moreno so he's obviously the most valuable. Buckhalter and Arrington both have the same skill set and are both making the same money so it would be hard to get rid of one of them. Jordan would appear the odd man out with his minimal contract but the Broncos need a goal line back. However, they still have Peyton Hillis at FB who could win that role if Moreno isn't up to the challenge making Jordan expendable.

Dynasty Outlook

Moreno - HIGH CEILING, most valuable rookie

Buckhalter - HANDCUFF

Arrington - LIMITED VALUE

Jordan - HANDCUFF

Torain - CUT BAIT

Hillis - STASH

Kansas City Chiefs

1. Larry Johnson age 29, contract: making 4.5 mill this year, most likely last year as contract escalates from there

2. Jamaal Charles age 22, contract: signed cheaply through 2011

3. Javarris Williams age 23, contract: rookie

4. Kolby Smith age 24, contract: signed 2010

Well, the Chiefs definitely have some youth behind starter Larry Johnson but is there any potential within that youth for a starter to emerge is the big question. It was looking like LJ may have been let go this off-season, but he'll stick around for 2009 and will most likely have to redo his contract if he wants to remain a Chief in 2010.

Dynasty Outlook

LJ - YEAR TO YEAR

Charles - STASH

Williams - STASH

Smith - CUT BAIT

Oakland Raiders

1. Justin Fargas age 29, contract: signed through 2010

2. Darren McFadden age 21, contract: signed through 2013

3. Michael Bush age 24, contract: signed through 2010

If McFadden and Bush can remain healthy, they will make Fargas an afterthought in Oakland. McFadden is already receiving glowing reviews this off-season and Michael Bush finished the year strong. Ideally, McFadden will be the starter with Michael Bush receiving goal line and short yardage duties.

Dynasty Outlook

McFadden - BUY LOW if you can from an impatient owner

Bush - BUY LOW if you can from an impatient owner

Fargas - FALLING

San Diego Chargers

1. LaDainian Tomlinson age 30, contract: signed through 2011 at 5+mill per year

2. Darren Sproles age 25, CONTRACT YEAR

3. Michael Bennett age 30, contract: signed through 2010

4. Gartrell Johnson age 22, contract: rookie

Will LT2 get the majority of the load as promised this off-season by Norv Turner? How much longer can he be a RB1? How much will Darren Sproles play and eat into LT2's carries? Where will Sproles sign next year? There are lots of questions in San Diego, not many answers as we head into 2009.

Dynasty Outlook

Tomlinson - HOLD

Sproles - HOLD

Bennett - NO VALUE

Johnson - STASH

AFC North

Baltimore Ravens

1. Willis McGahee age 26, contract: signed through 2013 but won't see big money starting next year

2. Ray Rice age 22, contract: signed through 2011

3. Cedric Peerman age 22, contract: rookie

4. LeRon McClain age 24, contract:signed through 2010

Barring a restructuring, this will be McGahee's last year in Baltimore so expect the Ravens to give Ray Rice a serious look and chance to be the man.  McClain is a true fullback, but was used plenty at the goal line last year and I'd expect that to continue in 2009.  Cedric Peerman will serve as Rice's backup and compete for return duty.

Dynasty Outlook

Rice - BUY LOW 

McGahee - FALLLING

McClain - HANDCUFF

Peerman - STASH

Cincinatti Bengals

1. Cedric Benson age 26, contract: signed through 2010 but can be cut after next season

2. Kenny Watson age 31, contract: last year of contract

3. Brian Leonard age 25, contract: signed through 2010

4. Bernard Scott age 25, contract: rookie

5. De De Dorsey age 24, contract: one year deal

Cedric Benson was actually a bright spot for an offensively inept Bengals squad last year which isn't saying much.  Still, he's a starting RB and will come extremely cheap in a trade.  His ceiling and floor is awfully close but with Carson Palmer back every offensive player should have a decent to good year.  Watson, Dorsey and Scott will battle for two spots and newly arrived Brian Leonard will be a handcuff for someone you don't need to handcuff.

Dynasty Outlook

Benson - YEAR TO YEAR

Scott - STASH

that is all

Cleveland Browns

1. Jamal Lewis age 29, contract: signed through 2010 but is due 4 mill that year, most likely last season

2. Jerome Harrison age 26, contract: last year of deal

3. James Davis age 23, contract: rookie

4. Noah Herron age 27, contract: one year deal

The Browns offense struggled and predictably Jamal Lewis' numbers suffered.  Now with a new regime in Cleveland, it appears that this may be Lewis' last year.  If Jerome Harrison can't reach his potential this season, it isn't going to happen.  James Davis was added via the draft so this can easily turn into a three headed monster, albeit, probably not a dangerous one.

Dynasty Outlook

Lewis - YEAR TO YEAR

Harrison - HANDCUFF

Davis - STASH

Herron - NO VALUE

Pittsburgh Steelers

1. Willie Parker age 28, CONTRACT YEAR

2. Rashard Mendenhal age 21, contract: signed through 2012

3. Mwelde Moore age 26, contract: signed through 2010

Parker is still the starter and will be motivated to showcase his talents for his next contract, but the Steelers want Mendenhall to show enough in camp and stay healthy so he can take over the duties.  Moore will be the change of pace back yet again.

Dynasty Outlook

Parker: HOLD

Mendenhall: BUY LOW

Moore: HANDCUFF

AFC South

Houston Texans

1. Steve Slaton age 23, contract: signed through 2011

2. Ryan Moats age 27, contract: one year deal

3. Chris Brown age 28, contract: last year of deal

4. Arian Foster age 22, contract: rookie

5. Jeremiah Johnson age 22, contract: rookie

When the Texans opted against drafting a high rated RB in the draft, Steve Slaton owners everywhere rejoiced.  Slaton is solidified as a RB1 and despite the talk of bringing in a bigger back from Coach Kubiak, there's anything but on the current roster.  Undrafted Arian Foster however is the wild card.

Dynasty Outlook

Slaton - HIGH CEILING

Foster - STASH

Moats - VERY LITTLE VALUE

Brown - NO VALUE

Johnson - STASH

Indianapolis Colts

1. Joseph Addai age 26, contract: signed through 2010 although salary doubles next year

2. Donald Brown age 22, contract: rookie

3. Mike Hart age 23, contract: signed through 2011

4. Chad Simpson age 23, contract: signed through 2010

Joseph Addai hasn't been able to take that next step to be a dependable franchise running back and with Dominic Rhodes not returning, the Colts drafted Donald Brown in the first round to share the load.  

Dynasty Outlook

Addai - FALLING

Brown - HIGH CEILING

Hart - LITTLE TO NO VALUE

Simpson - NO VALUE

Jackonville Jaguars

1. Maurice Jones Drew age 24, contract: signed through 2013

2. Chauncey Washington age 23, contract: signed through 2011

3. Alvin Peerman age 26, contract: one year deal

3. Rashard Jennings age 24, contract: rookie

This is MJD's show now that Fred Taylor has departed.  Chauncey Washington and rookie Rashard Jennings will battle for back up duties and handcuff title.  FB Greg Jones may also be in the mix for goal line duties but not enough to warrant a roster spot or affect MJD's value.

Dynasty Outlook

Jones-Drew - HIGH CEILING

Washington - HANDCUFF

Peerman - NO VALUE

Jennings - STASH

Tennessee Titans

1. Chris Johnson age 23, contract: signed through 2012

2. LenDale White age 24, CONTRACT YEAR

3. Quinton Gather age 24, contract: one year deal

4. Javon Ringer age 22, contract: rookie

5. Chris Henry age 23, contract: signed through 2010

Jeff Fisher has promised Chris Johnson will be the featured back, still LenDale White looms at the goal line.  Johnson may not realize his true potential until White leaves via free agency but all signs point to him improving on his outstanding rookie campaign.  Ringer was drafted to push for Chris Henry's roster spot.

Dynasty Outlook

Johnson - HIGH CEILING

White - HANDCUFF

Gather - NO VALUE

Ringer - STASH

Henry - NO VALUE

Return of the King

The reports are starting to roll in on the progress of fantasy super stud and Super Bowl winning Patriots QB Tom Brady. Pats training camp is right around the corner and all signs are pointing to Tom Brady being back to being Tom Brady again. He's six month into the rehab process and has experienced no setbacks as he continues his off-season workload. The Sporting News reports that he has "no restrictions" and Wes Welker deemed him "the same guy".

With that said however, Bill Belichick will probaby do all he can to downplay Brady's training camp participation. That's not going to stop fantasy footballers from ranking Brady as a top 3 QB going into the season. Drew Brees and Peyton Manning will be the other usual suspects as we try to determine who is most deserving to be the first QB selected. Can we just ignore Drew Bree's near record setting 2008 and reinsert Brady as the King of QB's? Can we just ignore Peyton Manning's steadiness and relentless continuity for a chance of Brady duplicating 2007? Brees is probably the consensus #1 QB right now, and rightly so, but there's a part of me that thinks Bill and Tom will be ready to show the world just who the real King is. 2008 was a lost season, expect Brady to more than make up for it in 2009.

source: http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=550639

It's a Hard Knock Life, for Us

Hold onto your seats boys and girls, but the Cincinatti Bengals were selected as this years particpants in the ever popular "Hard Knock" docu-series on HBO. Last year we saw Adam "Pacman" Jones show everyone what a changed man he was, and how mature he is, by chasing around rookies and dumping water on them. Fantastic. We watched TO drive 60 ft from one building to the other. More intriguing however were the camp battles, especially the rookie WR's struggling to make the team. Jerry Jones provided some insights as to the genius that has made him a mutli-millionare ("Fuck You, Pay Me"). Ok, that's not a direct quote, but that was the gist of it.

Now this year with the Bengals, what will we get?

A taste of life in the NFL in the late 80's as I'm sure this was the last time the Benglas facility was updated. Sweet! A conversation with Mike Brown and the lone scout debating the draft strategy employed by the Bengals this year. Awesome! Chris Henry, Tank Johnson, Barnard Scott. Wow. Knowing that the HardKnocks crew is going to be at camp, does that make Ochocinco more inclined to not hold out? I'm guessing yes. We know how this is going to go, but we have no choice but to watch it, because honestly, there is nothing else that comes close to as intriguing as Hard Knocks is. All this choas whipping around the calm eye of the storm that is Carson Palmer, as he sits and questions what he did to deserve a team like this. It's going to be great television. Can't wait!