By Jeff Paur
Senior Fantasy Writer
Realtime Fantasy Sports
Quarterbacks:The quarterback position continues to be deep for fantasy teams. And as past years have shown, having a top quarterback can be a big-time difference maker for fantasy teams. Teams that had Aaron Rodgers or Michael Vick made a lot of noise last season as both players posted a ton of points.
You can still wait on a quarterback and get a quality option such as Eli Manning, but getting an elite, top-five option will cost you a pick in the first three or four rounds of your draft. And with the way things played out last season, getting one of those top guys isn't a bad idea.
But you will also want to know your scoring system. Every league is different. Some leagues favor quarterbacks a little more while others try to devalue the position some by making passing touchdowns worth less as well as penalizing more for interceptions. So you'll want to know your scoring inside and out before deciding when to take a quarterback.
Running Backs:When it comes to fantasy, the running back position is a top priority. This seems to be the case every year and 2011 is no different. The top five or six seem to stand out over the other options. These guys will go fast come draft day, and teams having them will have an advantage over their opponents.
But there are other options out there with potential. Who is the Arian Foster of this season? That is the big question. Knowshon Moreno has the capability, playing in a new run-heavy offense. Can he finally stay healthy, though? Ryan Mathews is a talented back on the rise in a great offense, making him an intriguing pick come draft day. And don't overlook Shonn Greene, who had some struggles last season but should get more work in a run-heavy scheme with LaDainian Tomlinson on the decline. So there are options out there if you don't get those top guys.
You can't forget about the steady, veteran producers, though. Players like Frank Gore, Steven Jackson and DeAngelo Williams should have solid seasons in their current roles. It is always fun and exciting to take a young player, but sometimes going with the steady veteran or proven player is the way to go. We would feel pretty good about getting any of these backs for our team. Wide Receivers:The receiver position is a lot more coveted these days, mainly because so many leagues are points per reception (PPR). This makes getting someone like Andre Johnson a big plus for fantasy teams. Top receivers have even more value in PPR leagues. If you don't get an elite option in a PPR league, you aren't likely winning your league.
And we have some quality top options. There are about 12 or so elite fantasy receivers - guys capable of leading the league in scoring. After the top guys, though, we have a lot of similar options, which is why many wait on receivers after the elite guys are gone. It is another reason teams load up on No. 1 receivers early. You can use different strategies at the receiver spot and have success both ways.
Just like at running back, teams are looking for the next surprise. Who will be Brandon Lloyd in 2011? There are some breakout candidates. Austin Collie can do big things if he can stay healthy. His role should be expanded with Reggie Wayne another year older. Jeremy Maclin is another year older and produced consistent but not quite elite numbers last season. Things should get even better for Maclin this season. Jordy Nelson also has potential, having a huge finish to his season. Nelson should get more targets from day one in Green bay. So there are options out there that could break through. It would be good to target one, get one on your team and hope for the best. Tight Ends:The tight end position continues to be a point of emphasis around the league. And the NFL is a copycat league, so look for many teams to emulate what the Patriots did with their offense last season. New England used a lot of two-tight end sets and got their young tight ends involved in the offense. Expect more of the same from them and several other teams around the league. So tight ends provide a lot of value to NFL teams and fantasy teams. A top No. 1 tight end that produces similar to an elite receiver can be a huge plus for fantasy teams.
Jason Witten had numbers most No. 1 receivers didn't match. There are about five or so tight ends capable of having a Witten-type season this year. If you want one of those guys, act quickly. You'll likely have to use a pick in the first six rounds.
But there remains a lot of talent after those top options. Marcedes Lewis was an afterthought in many leagues last season, but turned out to be an elite option. There are similar up and coming tight ends out there this season, including Brandon Pettigrew, Jermaine Gresham and Jimmy Graham. These guys are capable No. 1s that you can get later in your draft.
Kickers:We mention it every season, but the key to finding a successful fantasy kicker is drafting a kicker that is on a team that wins games. Of the 13 kickers that finished with 110 or more points last season, seven played on team with a .500 or better record. Normally, it is a bit higher of a percentage but last year was a bit of an anomaly. There will be an occasional kicker that breaks this rule, but for the most part, the best kickers play on the best teams. They are giving them more opportunities to score, making their point totals among the best in the league.
And please don't be the guy that takes a kicker in the fifth round of your draft. The point deferential from week to week between the top kicker and the 10th rated guy is minimal. We aren't saying to totally discount the position, but use some discretion. Every point does matter, but having your core team in place before taking a kicker is a good idea come draft day.
You also know that some teams will surprise and a kicker's production will be rewarded. Last season, Josh Brown was a big surprise at kicker. He was sixth in the league in scoring, but went undrafted in many leagues because the Rams weren't a team on everyone's radar last season. Keep that in mind when thinking about taking a kicker in the early rounds of your draft. Let someone else use a mid-round pick on Nate Kaeding while you solidify the rest of your roster. Def / STs:The big thing with the defense/special teams position is knowing your rules. Some leagues really reward defenses for sacks, turnovers and points allowed while others just give points for touchdowns scored by your defense/special teams. This is quite a different approach, so before ranking or picking a defense during your draft, know what your league favors. Your rules will dictate the value the position in your league.
With that said, the Packers are our top selection this season after a big season last year. They return about everyone, added some new talent and will get healthier (missed a lot of players due to injury last season). But after the Packers, we have several solid choices. The Jets, Patriots, Bears and Steelers should have solid seasons and are capable of finishing near the top of most leagues in defense/special teams scoring.
And there are a couple different approaches to taking a defense. If you want to use a mid-round pick on a defense/special teams, take the Packers or Steelers or whoever you have rated high. But if you want to wait until the later rounds, grab two defenses you think you can platoon based on matchups. This is a good strategy to use if you want to wait a while before taking a defense and use that mid-round pick on another position. Getting two teams like the Vikings and Saints could do just as well as taking the Steelers with a higher pick. It is just something to think about heading into your draft. Platoon options can work well with this position.
| #1 | Adrian Peterson (RB) | TDs: 12 Yds: 1298 | Minnesota | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Peterson rushed for the lowest total of his career last season, but still finished the year with 1,639 total yards and 13 touchdowns. He had just three 100-yard games, which is a low total for him, but still averaged an impressive 4.6 yards per carry. Peterson also did a much better job of protecting the ball after having some fumbling issues the last few seasons. Peterson lost just one fumble all last season. He did battle knee and ankle injuries, which cut into his playing time. Peterson missed a game for just the third time in his career. The Vikings lack of a passing attack didn't help matters for Peterson, who faced a lot of stacked boxes throughout the year. The good news is Peterson has double-digit touchdowns every year in the NFL and at least 1,600 total yards every season. The Vikings have quarterback issues, but the offense should revolve around Peterson. Minnesota still has a top offensive line, making the running game a strength of the team. Peterson is as explosive as any back in the game. He can run over tacklers but also has great speed to break a big play every time he touches the ball. Peterson also is an improving receiver, catching 79 passes the last two seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Peterson had a down year last year and was still among the top backs in all of football. He can get better next season. Peterson is as consistent as any back in the game. You can pencil him in for double-digit touchdowns and around 1,800 total yards. He is a top-three pick for this coming season. You can make a case for him being the top overall pick. | | #2 | Ray Rice (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 1223 | Baltimore | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Rice didn't quite follow up his breakout season, but still produced solid numbers last year. He finished with 1,776 total yards and six touchdowns. He had two 100-yard games but finished with fewer than 50-rushing yards three times. Rice was a little more inconsistent. The big issue was his yards per carry, which went from 5.3 to 4.0 last season. Rice didn't make quite as many big plays, having a harder time finding room to run. Over the last two seasons, Rice averages 1,909 total yards and seven touchdowns per season. He gets a ton of work as a receiver, catching 141 passes the last two years. Rice is a good between the tackles runner for his size, but has game-breaking speed and great moves in the open field. He has very good vision and does a good job of setting up his blocks.
Fantasy Outlook:
Rice disappointed many fantasy owners last year, but his overall numbers really weren't that bad. Remember, he still had just fewer than 1,800 total yards. Rice is a surefire first-round pick in PPR leagues. But outside of PPR leagues, he is more of a low-end No. 1 back. His lack of scores holds him back from the elite backs. He still hasn't topped double-digit touchdowns, but his yardage numbers are as good as any. He can get around 2,000 total yards and near double-digit touchdowns this season. | | #3 | Arian Foster (RB) | TDs: 16 Yds: 1614 | Houston | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Foster made a statement from day one last season, rushing for 231 yards and three touchdowns the first week of the season. He didn't match that game the rest of the season, but his numbers were solid throughout. Foster had nine 100-yard games and scored a league-high 18 touchdowns. Foster did it all, catching 66 passes for 604 yards to go with his huge yardage totals. He finished the year with 2,220 total yards. Foster will be the lead back in Houston for years to come. Their blocking scheme is a perfect fit for Foster, who cuts as well as any back in the game right now. Foster has size, speed, vision and plus hands. He also proved to be durable, playing the whole sizing while getting nearly 400 touches. Foster did have minor arthroscopic knee surgery after the season, but this shouldn't be an issue going forward. The Texans used to be a pass-first team, but are moving to a more balanced approach, utilizing a good offensive line.
Fantasy Outlook: 
Foster might be the safe No. 1 pick this season. He plays in a good offense, is coming off a huge season and is just hitting the prime of his career. Foster doesn't have many negatives going for him right now. He might be hard pressed to match last season but he seems a pretty good bet to get around 2,000 total yards and double-digit scores, making him an elite fantasy back. You can't do much better than Foster at this stage of the game. Needless to say, you won't be able to get him as your No. 3 or 4 back like many teams did last season. | | #4 | Chris Johnson (RB) | TDs: 11 Yds: 1364 | Tennessee | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Johnson didn't match his magical '09 season, but still had a solid year. He had more than 1,600 total yards and 12 touchdowns. The only blemish was a few really bad showings during the year, including a game he rushed seven times for five yards. Johnson has double-digit touchdowns and at least 1,200-rushing yards all three seasons in the league. He averages 1,869 total yards per season for his career. Johnson isn't the biggest back but has been durable, missing just one game in three seasons. He does have a lot of touches, though, having 1,062 touches for his career. So there is some concern about injury happening with Johnson in the near future. The Titans made a coaching change, but should keep a similar offensive system with Johnson the focal point of the offense. Johnson might be the fastest back in the game. He is a top big-play threat capable of breaking a big play every time he touches the ball. Johnson also is a very good receiver, catching at least 43 passes each of his first three seasons in the league.
Fantasy Outlook:
Johnson remains an elite back and worthy of the first overall pick. He has as much potential as any fantasy player in the game. Some consistency at quarterback should help Johnson for 2011. He can top 2,000 total yards and double-digit touchdowns. He did have some really poor showings last season, which is a bit of a concern, but the good still outweighs the bad for Johnson. | | #5 | Jamaal Charles (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 1467 | Kansas City | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Despite not starting much of the year and having more than 20 carries just three times, Charles ran for nearly 1,500 yards and finished with 1,935 total yards. He was the best big-play back in the league, averaging 6.4 yards per carry. Charles didn't get a heavy workload as a runner, but still had double-digit carries in every game. He also got a workout in the passing game, catching an impressive 45 passes. Charles has two straight 1,000-yard seasons and has 40-plus receptions in each of those seasons. He could get even more work this season after his huge '10 season, especially since he held up just fine with his workload last season. The one knock on Charles is his touchdowns. He has 16 scores the past two seasons. Charles has top speed, great moves and even runs with some power despite weighing less than 200 pounds. He is the complete package at running back.
Fantasy Outlook:
Charles is a legit No. 1 pick. He can top 2,000 total yards this season and get double-digit scores for the first time in his career. He is only going to get better with more chances, which seems likely this season. You could even make a case for Charles to be the first overall pick. He has that kind of ability for fantasy teams. He is a top-five option for 2011. | | #6 | LeSean McCoy (RB) | TDs: 7 Yds: 1080 | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
McCoy enjoyed a breakout season as the Eagles lead back. He topped 1,600 total yards and scored nine touchdowns. He had three 100-yard rushing games and even a 100-yard receiving game. He was the complete package in the Eagles offense. McCoy averaged more than five yards per carry and caught 78 passes. He is the ideal back for the Eagles. His lack of size was a concern, but he held up just fine his first season as a No. 1 back. He missed just one game, but was held out as a precaution the last game of the year. McCoy is an elusive back with great hands. He makes plays in space. McCoy also proved he can get it done between the tackles, making some tough runs throughout the year. He should be the top back in the Eagles offense for many years to come.
Fantasy Outlook:
McCoy can build on last season. He has big-time potential. He is a legit first-round pick in all formats and a top-five pick in PPR leagues. His touchdowns are the one thing holding him back, but it wouldn't surprise to see him get 10 this season as he gets a few more chances around the goal line. Either way, he has the potential to get 1,800 total yards in this offense, making him among the league leaders in yardage. | | #7 | Aaron Rodgers (QB) | TDs: 28 Yds: 3922 | Green Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Rodgers missed some time last season because of concussions, which is a bit of a concern going forward, but he still enjoyed another huge season. He threw for nearly 4,000 yards and had 32 total touchdowns to just 11 interceptions. Rodgers had five 300-yard games and six games with three or more touchdowns. Over the last three years, Rodgers averages 4,132-passing yards and 33 total touchdowns. He also has been picked off just 31 times in three seasons despite attempting more than 1,500 passes. Rodgers is an underrated runner. He has at least 200-rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns each of the last three seasons. This part of his game can be overlooked, but is a real asset. Rodgers has a great arm and is extremely accurate (completed 64 percent of passes each of last three seasons). He makes plays with his feet and is durable (missed one game in three years as starter). The Packers have a solid group of receivers and should continue to be a pass-first team offensively.
Fantasy Outlook:
Rodgers is our top rated fantasy quarterback. He does it all - throws for a ton of yards, piles up the touchdowns and even gets decent rushing totals. Plus, he is so consistent throughout the season, which is a huge asset for fantasy teams. He is in the prime of his career in a great offense for quarterbacks. You can't do too much better than Rodgers. He'll throw for 4,000-plus yards and score around 35 touchdowns while running for 300 or so yards. | | #8 | Darren McFadden (RB) | TDs: 7 Yds: 1157 | Oakland | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
It took a few seasons, but McFadden finally lived up to his potential last season. McFadden had a monster season, finishing with more than 1,600 total yards and 10 touchdowns in 13 games. He looked like a different back, running with a lot more power and decisiveness while still displaying his breakaway speed. McFadden had six 100-yard games and had more than 85-rushing yards nine of 13 games. He was a consistent presence in the Raiders offense all season. He should continue to get a lot of chances, being the focal point of the offense with offensive coordinator Hue Jackson now the head coach. McFadden had fewer than 500-rushing yards his previous two seasons. He is yet to play a full season, battling injury each of his three years in the NFL. McFadden is the real deal, though. He has a ton of ability. McFadden is a complete back. He catches the ball well (47 receptions last season), can churn out the tough yards and has elite speed to make the big play every time he touches the ball. He is a game changer.
Fantasy Outlook:
His injury history hurts his value, but McFadden has as much upside as any back in the game. He can be the top rated fantasy back if all the chips fall into place. Consider him a low-end No. 1 back, though, since he has missed 10 games in three years. He has the potential to get 2,000 total yards and double-digit touchdowns if he can make it through a full season. | | #9 | Maurice Jones-Drew (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 1323 | Jacksonville | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Jones-Drew played most of the season with a torn meniscus in his knee, which is impressive considering his production. Jones-Drew did end up missing the last two games of the year because of the injury, but still managed more than 1,600 total yards and seven touchdowns. He had a stretch of six straight 100-yard games at one point during the season. Jones-Drew sure didn't play like a guy hurting. He did have knee surgery to repair the injury, though, which was more extensive than originally thought as his knee was bone-on-bone. Any kind of knee surgery is a concern, but Jones-Drew doesn't really have an injury history and is 26 years old. He should be able to recover alright to be ready for the start of 2011. Jones-Drew has double-digit touchdowns three of five years in the league and rushed for more than 1,300 yards back-to-back seasons. He also is a valuable receiver, having 40 or more receptions in all but one season. Jones-Drew is the complete package. He has top speed, great moves and can also run with some power.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jones-Drew is a bit of a concern because of the knee injury, but he should be able to rebound at his age. He should still be considered a first-round pick and solid No. 1 fantasy back. His touchdown numbers were down last season but history shows those can go back up. He has been a touchdown machine past seasons. His carries could be down some as the Jags ease him back into action, but a season with 1,700 total yards and double-digit scores is very possible for Jones-Drew. | | #10 | Jordy Nelson (WR) | TDs: 2 Yds: 582 | Green Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Nelson is emerging as a big-time target in the Packers' offense. He set career highs in receptions and yards last season, nearly doubling his previous career best numbers. But most impressive was his playoff performance. He had nine receptions for 140 yards and a touchdown in Green Bay's Super Bowl win and finished the playoffs with 21 receptions for 286 yards and two touchdowns. Nelson should continue to get more and more targets in 2011. He could even move into a starting role for the Packers. Nelson is a good athlete with above-average hands. He makes plays after the catch because of his top speed and moves in space. He will struggle with drops on occasion but is gaining the trust of Aaron Rodgers and moving ahead of others on the depth chart.
Fantasy Outlook: 
Nelson is a top sleeper at receiver for the coming season. He can build on his big-time playoff performance. It wouldn't surprise to see Nelson get around 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns in an expanded role. Consider him a solid low-end No. 2 receiver for fantasy teams. He is an emerging fantasy player. | | #11 | Matt Forte (RB) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1069 | Chicago | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
With Mike Martz calling plays, most thought Forte could see a dip in production, but that wasn't the case last season. Forte had a big year, especially late in the year as the Bears focused on running the ball more often. Forte had more than 1,600 total yards and the second 1,000-yard season of his career. He averaged a career-high 4.5 yards per carry. Forte had 95-plus total yards six of the last seven games, including two 100-yard rushing games during that stretch. He scored nine touchdowns, mainly because of Chester Taylor stealing some goal-line work. Forte is expected to get more goal-line chances this season, though, which should help his numbers. In three seasons, Forte averages 1,577 total yards and eight touchdowns. He is a huge part of the passing game, catching more than 50 passes every year in the league. Forte has good size and runs hard, but lacks some big-play ability. He did make more big plays last season, but remains a better between the tackles runner. He'll churn out some tough yards and make a lot of plays out of the backfield as a receiver.
Fantasy Outlook:
Forte is a good late first-round or early second-round pick. The touchdowns are the one thing holding him back from being an elite back, but he has a chance to erase that this season. He could score double-digit touchdowns in an improving Bears offense. And his yardage totals will be among the best, finishing with around 1,800 total yards. He got better as the year went on, so a career season could be in store for Forte in 2011. | | #12 | Wes Welker (WR) | TDs: 7 Yds: 848 | New England | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Welker returned from his major knee injury, but didn't look like quite the same receiver from past seasons. He failed to top 1,000 yards and 100 receptions for the first time in three seasons. Welker didn't even hit 900 yards, which was unusual for him. He didn't make many big plays, though, averaging less than 10 yards per carry for the first time since becoming an impact player in the league. Welker did score seven touchdowns, which was the second highest total of his career. He got a few more red-zone looks with Randy Moss gone. Welker remains the most dependable receiver in the Patriots pass-first offense. He probably is the top possession receiver in the game and Tom Brady's favorite safety valve. Welker is a small, speedy receiver with plus hands and the ability to make plays in the open field. Another year removed from his knee injury should be a positive for Welker this coming season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Welker can rebound from last season. Remember, he suffered a major knee injury late in the '09 season. He should be much stronger from day one this year. It wouldn't surprise to see him get back to his usual ways, getting 100-plus receptions for 1,000-plus yards. He isn't a top No. 1 receiver outside of PPR leagues, but a more than admirable No. 2 for fantasy teams. He'll get his yards and catches as well as a few scores. | | #13 | Darren Sproles (RB) | TDs: 0 Yds: 270 | New Orleans | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Sproles set career highs in receptions and receiving yards, but had his fewest rushing totals in three seasons. He got a ton of work in the passing game, catching 59 passes for 520 yards. Sproles has 104 receptions the last two seasons. He ran for just 267 yards last season, though, and has never topped 350-rushing yards. Sproles is a clear third-down back. He fits the role well, a role he'll serve with the Saints this season. Sproles has great speed and moves, but lacks the ideal size to be an ideal every-down back. He also is a great return man, having return scores three of the last four games.
Fantasy Outlook:
Sproles has much more value in PPR leagues. He gets a ton of work in the passing game. His overall yardage totals won't be bad, but not enough to make him more than a decent No. 3 or 4 back. He'll get you about 700 total yards and a few scores. | | #14 | Roddy White (WR) | TDs: 10 Yds: 1389 | Atlanta | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
White had a dominating season at the receiver position last year. He set career highs in receptions and yardage, topping 100 receptions for the first time in his career. White also scored double-digit touchdowns for the second straight season. White had five 100-yard games and three games with double-digit receptions. White has four straight seasons with 1,000 yards, averaging 93 receptions for 1,282 yards and nine touchdowns during that stretch. White is the top target in the Falcons passing attack. He is a big, physical receiver with good speed and plus hands. He can make plays with his legs, but also isn't afraid to make the tough catch in traffic. The Falcons like to run the ball, but are relying on the pass more and more these days, which is a plus for White.
Fantasy Outlook:
You can make a case for White to be the top-rated fantasy receiver this season. He does it all, getting big reception, yardage and touchdown totals. He might have a hard time matching last season, especially with Julio Jones stealing targets, but White should come close as he is in the prime of his career in a very good offense. White should get around 100 receptions for 1,200 yards and double-digit scores. | | #15 | Frank Gore (RB) | TDs: 3 Yds: 853 | San Francisco | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Gore missed a few games early in the year because of injury but came on strong at the end of the year, making up for the missed time. He had 100-yard games three of his last four and finished with 587 total yards and four touchdowns in those four games. The 49ers recommitted to the run late in the year and Gore was the benefactor. Gore finished with a career-high 13 touchdowns and his highest rushing totals since 2006. Gore has four straight 1,000-yard seasons and has at least 1,400 total yards in all of those seasons. Even though he has a label of being injury prone, Gore has missed just seven games in five years. Gore is an explosive back. He has good speed and moves in the open field. He has big-play potential in an improving 49ers offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gore is a solid first-round pick. He has good total yardage potential and another season with double-digit touchdowns seems likely in a 49ers offense that should be even better this season. Gore might never repeat his '06 season, but he can come close as long as he can stay healthy. You always have to worry about Gore getting hurt, though, which knocks down his value some. He is usually good to miss a couple games per season. Just plan for it. | | #16 | Drew Brees (QB) | TDs: 33 Yds: 4620 | New Orleans | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Brees was a little more turnover prone last season (22 interceptions), but still posted his usual big numbers. He threw for 4,620 yards and 33-touchdown passes. Brees had seven 300-yard games and touchdowns in every game last season. He has three straight seasons with 33 or more touchdown passes. Brees also has thrown for 4,300-plus yards five straight years. Brees is extremely accurate (completes 65 percent of his passes for career), makes great decisions and spreads the wealth to a host of talented options in the Saints offense. The Saints try to have a balanced offense, but remain pass-first with Brees at the helm. Brees had fewer than 30-pass attempts just once all of last year. He gets plenty of chances in this offense, an offense he knows very well.
Fantasy Outlook:
Brees remains an elite fantasy quarterback. You can make a strong case for him to be the first quarterback taken come draft day. Brees plays in a pass-first offense and produces as consistent numbers as any quarterback in the game. His numbers won't be topped by many if any quarterbacks this season. Brees is good for around 4,500-passing yards and 30 touchdowns. | | #17 | LeGarrette Blount (RB) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1007 | Tampa Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Blount was undrafted last season, but sure made all those teams that passed on him look bad. The Titans signed him but released him before the start of the season in hopes of signing him to their practice squad. He didn't make it to the practice squad as the Bucs claimed him on waivers. He got his first action of the season Week 3 but started really making his mark Week 7. From Week 7 on, Blount had double-digit carries every game and four 100-yard games. Despite playing just 13 games, Blount still managed a 1,000-yard season his rookie year and averaged five yards per carry. He will be the top back in the Bucs' offense for years to come. Blount is a big back but has surprising speed and moves for a big man. His game is power, though. Blount will run over, through and around would-be tacklers. He does have some off-the-field concerns, but seemed to control his temper better after moving to the Bucs.
Fantasy Outlook:
Blount is an emerging fantasy star. Consider him a low-end No. 1 back. He plays in an up-and-coming offense and should be the focal point many weeks. Blount gets little work in the passing game, which hurts his value some, but he can finish with Michael Turner-type numbers. He can get 1,500 yards and double-digit touchdowns in a full season. | | #18 | Peyton Hillis (RB) | TDs: 11 Yds: 1177 | Cleveland | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
A trade to Cleveland was just the thing to jumpstart Hillis' career. He quickly found his way in the starting lineup early in the season and never looked back. He had his first 1,000-yard season as a pro and scored 13 touchdowns, putting him among the league leaders. Hillis had five 100-yard games. He had 13 touchdowns his first 11 games of the season. Hillis did fizzle some as the season progressed, showing some signs of wear and tear in his first full season as a starter. He had fewer than 60-rushing yards four of his last five games. Hillis also battled some fumbling issues, losing five throughout the season. He did more than enough to prove he is the No. 1 back in Cleveland, though, but his late-season slide and fumbling issues could land him in more of a platoon role. He should start but might split more work with Montario Hardesty. Hillis is a huge back with surprising quickness and very good hands (61 receptions). He has enough speed to break plays to the outside but also runs well between the tackles because of his size. He does need to cut down on the fumbles if he hopes to take his game up another notch.
Fantasy Outlook:
Not sure Hillis repeats last season, but you have to love his touchdown potential. He is an ideal short-yardage back, which helps his value. And the new Browns offense should fit him well because of his ability to catch the ball. He can top 1,000 yards and near double-digit touchdowns, putting him in the top No. 2 back territory. | | #19 | Calvin Johnson (WR) | TDs: 12 Yds: 1120 | Detroit | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Johnson was healthy much of the season and it showed in his play. He neared career highs across the board, catching 77 passes for 1,120 yards and 12 touchdowns. Johnson was a consistent factor in the Lions' passing game. He had four 100-yard games and two games with double-digit receptions. Johnson posted these big numbers without his No. 1 quarterback (Matthew Stafford) about the entire season. If Stafford can stay healthy, Johnson should see his numbers improve. Johnson is a big receiver with top speed and the knack for making the big play. He will drop a few passes on occasion, but more than makes up for that because of his top playmaking ability. He is an amazing athlete, capable of making the circus catch. Johnson has double-digit touchdowns and 1,000-yard seasons two of the four in the league.
Fantasy Outlook:
Johnson can be the top fantasy receiver in the game, especially if Stafford can stay healthy. He is capable of just the monster game, making him a top No. 1 for fantasy teams. Expect a career season in 2011 for Johnson. He can get 90 receptions for 1,300 yards and 15 touchdowns if all the pieces fall in place. | | #20 | Michael Vick (QB) | TDs: 21 Yds: 3018 | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Vick had his best NFL season last year. He got in the first game of the year because of an injury to Kevin Kolb and took off from there. Vick did miss some time with rib and quad injuries, but in his 12 games played, Vick had 30 total touchdowns. He ran for 676 yards, including two 100-yard games. Vick also did a ton of damage throwing the ball, having three 300-yard games. Vick had his first 3,000-yard season as a pro even though he missed four games. Vick made huge strides as a passer last season. He had a career high 63 percent completion percentage. Vick will be the starter in Philly from day one this season. His upside is huge in this offense. He has great options to work with at receiver and can do damage as a runner. Remember, Vick has a 1,000-yard rushing season. Vick is a gifted runner with a rocket for an arm. His accuracy is improving as well as his decision making. His accuracy still leaves him at times, but is much better than past seasons. And Vick is much more accurate on his deep throws at this stage of his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Vick goes from fantasy after thought to a guy you could draft first at quarterback. You can make a strong case for Vick to be the top rated fantasy quarterback. He is the top dual threat in the game in a great Eagles offense. The only thing holding Vick back is the potential for injury. His style of play will lead to injury, which is why he has played a full season just once in his career. He is a top-five fantasy quarterback this season, capable of carrying fantasy teams any given week. A season with 3,500-passing yards, 800-rushing yards and 30-plus total touchdowns is very possible if Vick can stay healthy. | | #21 | Michael Turner (RB) | TDs: 12 Yds: 1371 | Atlanta | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Turner had a huge bounce-back season. He ran for nearly 1,400 yards and scored 12 touchdowns. Turner had seven 100-yard games, posting consistent numbers after a slow start to the season (one touchdown first six games). Turner gained steam as the season progressed. He has been a dependable back for the Falcons. He has double-digit touchdowns three straight seasons and averaged 1,314-rushing yards over that stretch. And you have to factor in he missed five games in 2009. Turner has been a full-time starter just three seasons, but has a lot of carries in that time (888). You have to wonder if he will start to show some signs of wear and tear. Turner is 28 years old, though, so he likely has a few good years left. Turner runs with a lot of power but has enough speed to break a big play. He is a power back with home-run ability - a rare combo. Turner doesn't get much work as a receiver, but did have a career-high 12 receptions last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
His lack of work in the passing game hurts his fantasy value some, but he will churn out a lot of yards and score double-digit touchdowns in a very good Falcons offense. Turner is a low-end first-round pick for fantasy teams and a solid No. 1 back. He is a good bet to get double-digit scores and 1,300 or so yards. You have to be happy with those consistent numbers. | | #22 | Larry Fitzgerald (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1137 | Arizona | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Despite getting terrible quarterback play most of the season, Fitzgerald had a pretty typical season for his standards. He had at least 90 receptions once again and topped 1,000 yards for the fourth straight season. His six touchdowns tied a career low, but his reception and yardage totals were near normal levels for Fitz. He had three 100-yard games and was targeted double-digit times all but four games. He is the clear No. 1 receiver in the Cardinals offense. In his last four seasons, Fitzgerald averages 96 receptions for 1,267 yards and 10 touchdowns. Fitzgerald doesn't have elite speed, but runs great routes and has plus hands. He is as athletic as any receiver in the game and remains in the prime of his career at age 28 (turns shortly before season). The Cardinals offense has to be better than last season, which should help the production of Fitzgerald.
Fantasy Outlook:
Fitzgerald is an elite fantasy receiver. His quarterback situation remains somewhat of a concern, but he proved last season he can still produce despite poor quarterback play. You can pencil in Fitz for 90-plus receptions, 1,000-plus yards and double-digit touchdowns. He is a top-10 fantasy option. If he still had Kurt Warner throwing him passes, he might be the first receiver taken come draft day. | | #23 | Steven Jackson (RB) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1241 | St Louis | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Jackson got a ton of work once again, but his numbers weren't off the charts last season. He ran for 1,000-plus yards for the sixth straight season, but averaged less than four yards per carry for the first time in his career. Jackson has 320-plus carries each of the last two seasons. His workload has been very heavy as the Rams lead back (1,878 carries in seven seasons). He also gets a lot of work in the passing game, catching 46 passes last season. Jackson has at least 40 receptions three straight seasons. Jackson is usually good to suffer an injury at some point during the season because of his running style, but he usually plays through injury (missed just a game last two years). Jackson has a new offense to learn this season, an offense that could be more pass heavy. Jackson should be involved, but he isn't likely to get the work of past seasons with Josh McDaniels calling plays. Jackson is the real deal at running back. He has enough speed to break a play to the outside but also isn't afraid to run over a would-be tackler. Jackson is as big as some linebackers, making him a scary proposition for defenses.
Fantasy Outlook: 
Jackson should see his touchdown numbers go up (just one double-digit touchdown season), but his yardage numbers could suffer a little getting fewer carries. And don't forget Jackson will be 28 before the start of the year. He doesn't have many top years left, especially if you consider his workload. He remains a low-end No. 1 for 2011, though. A season with double-digit scores and around 1,400 total yards makes him a good second or third round pick for fantasy teams. | | #24 | Felix Jones (RB) | TDs: 1 Yds: 800 | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Jones played a full season for just the first time in his career, serving as the lead back for the Cowboys most weeks. He set career highs in nearly every offensive category, including 1,250 total yards. The Cowboys were pass-first offensively, but Jones had double-digit carries 11 games. He had just one 100-yard game and ran for 70-plus yards five times. He got consistent work, but his numbers weren't off the charts. The biggest positives were Jones showed he could handle the workload and play a full season. Jones should remain the lead back in Dallas, but likely share carries and lose a lot of the goal-line work, which was the case last season (one rushing touchdown). Jones is a home-run threat every time he touches the ball and is as fast as any back in the game. Jones isn't the biggest back, though, which lends him to getting nicked up from time to time. He is a plus receiver, catching an impressive 48 passes last season, which gets him in the field in key passing downs.
Fantasy Outlook:
His touchdown potential hurts his fantasy value, but you have to be encouraged by last season. He has a lot of total yardage potential. A season with 1,500 total yards and seven or so scores seem realistic for Jones. He can be a solid No. 2 back for fantasy teams, playing in a good Cowboys offense. | | #25 | Rob Gronkowski (TE) | TDs: 10 Yds: 546 | New England | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Gronkowski had a big rookie season, serving as probably the top red-zone target in the Patriots' offense. He scored 10 touchdowns on 42 receptions. Gronkowski should be a big part of the offense going forward for the Patriots. He is the most complete tight end on the roster, doing well as a receiver and blocker. Gronkowski isn't a flashy receiver, but has the speed to stretch the field and the strength to make the tough catches underneath. He isn't a great blocker, but willing and usually does a good job.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gronkowski emerged as a No. 1 tight end last season and should continue to serve that role well for fantasy teams in a pass-first offense. He has great touchdown potential and can improve his reception and yardage totals from his rookie season, getting more comfortable in the offense. A season with 60 receptions for 650 yards and around double-digit scores is possible for Gronkowski. | | #26 | Greg Jennings (WR) | TDs: 12 Yds: 1265 | Green Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Jennings probably had his best season to date. He topped 75 catches for 1,200 yards and double-digit touchdowns in the same season for the first time in his career. Jennings made tons of big plays in the Packers' offense all season, including during their Super Bowl run. Jennings had five 100-yard games and tied a career high with 12 touchdowns. He also had two 100-yard games during the Packers' playoff run. The Packers have a lot of options in their pass-first offense, but Jennings is the clear No. 1 receiver. He is one of the top big-play threats in the game, averaging more than 16 yards per reception for his career. Jennings has top speed to stretch the field on deep passes and the ability turn a short reception into a big play. Jennings will drop the occasional pass, but has gotten better with this over the years. He has three straight 1,000-yard seasons with the Packers.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jennings is the real deal. He is an elite fantasy receiver, worth taking among the top receivers in the game. His reception totals might not be that of the top guys (80 or so), but you can count on big yardage numbers (around 1,300) and double-digit touchdowns. He is a consistent producer in a very good offense. | | #27 | Shonn Greene (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 766 | New York Jets | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Greene didn't quite have the second season as expected. He battled some consistency issues and a slow start cut into his playing time early in the year. He played better down the stretch, though, especially in the playoffs, giving some encouragement for 2011. Greene had one 100-yard game and seven games with 50-plus rushing yards. He also had eight games with fewer than 50-rushing yards, proving his inconsistent season. Greene did set career highs in rushing (766) and receiving (120). He has a chance to get more carries in 2011 as the Jets top back. Greene is a powerful back that does a good job of running between the tackles. He hits the hole in a hurry. He battled some fumbling issues last season, causing the coaching staff to lose some confidence in him. Greene improved as a receiver last season, but still is just adequate in that area.
Fantasy Outlook:
Greene has the makeup of a Michael Turner, so the potential is there for big things. His four touchdowns in two seasons, though, hurt his overall value. Take him as a No. 2 back and hope for a breakout season. It is very possible, but reaching for him higher than that is a big risk. A season with 1,300 total yards and eight or so touchdowns seem realistic for Greene in his third season in the NFL. | | #28 | Antonio Gates (TE) | TDs: 10 Yds: 782 | San Diego | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
If not for a foot injury, Gates likely has his best season as a pro. He scored 10 touchdowns in 10 games and piled up an impressive 782 yards. Gates was nearly unstoppable when on the field last season. He had three 100-yard games and touchdowns seven of the first eight games of the season. Unfortunately, Gates suffered a torn plantar fascia in his right foot, which hampered him pretty much the entire second half of the season. He was inactive most weeks. Gates didn't need surgery on the injury but dealt with this injury before, which is somewhat of a concern. Gates has two 1,000-yard and three double-digit touchdown seasons for his career. Some think he has a history of injury, but he missed just three games prior to last season. Gates will get nicked but usually plays through the pain. Gates is a very tough cover at tight end. He has plus speed for the position, great hands and seems to always put himself in position to make the catch. He is the favorite target of Philip Rivers in the Chargers pass-first offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gates is as steady as any tight end in the game. He'll get around 1,000 yards with nine touchdowns as long as he is healthy. He is a top-three tight end and worth a look as the first overall tight end. Remember, he was having a huge season last year before getting hurt. His upside is as high as any fantasy tight end in the game. | | #29 | Ryan Mathews (RB) | TDs: 7 Yds: 675 | San Diego | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Mathews had a disappointing rookie season, mainly because of injury, but his finish was encouraging. Mathews had five touchdowns his last four games and ran for 296 yards, including a 100-yard game his last game of the season. He played just 12 games, but had more than 800 total yards and seven touchdowns. Mathews should be the lead back in San Diego for years to come. Mathews runs with power, but also has good speed and explosiveness, a rare combination these days at running back. Mathews doesn't have great moves in the open field, though, which limits his big-play ability. Mathews does well as a blocker and is a capable receiver. Injuries are a concern for Mathews after missing four games and being slowed in many others his rookie season.
Fantasy Outlook: 
Mathews didn't live up to his high-draft status last season, but certainly has a ton of upside in a very good Chargers offense. If he can stay on the field, he can top 1,000-rushing yards and score double-digit touchdowns. Mathews is the complete package at running back for fantasy teams. He is worth a second- or third-round pick come draft day as a low-end No. 1 or top No. 2 fantasy back. | | #30 | Mike Wallace (WR) | TDs: 10 Yds: 1257 | Pittsburgh | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Wallace blossomed about as expected last season, having his first 1,000-yard season as a pro while scoring double-digit touchdowns (10). Wallace emerged as the go-to target in the Steelers' passing game. He had seven 100-yard games and three straight to end the season. Wallace also had an impressive showing in the Super Bowl, catching nine passes for 89 yards and a touchdown. He has moved into elite category at receiver in the NFL. Wallace has great speed and the ability to make a big play every time the ball is in his hands (averages 20.3 yards per catch for his career). His route running still isn't top notch but getting there. Wallace also has good hands and a knack for making the big play.
Fantasy Outlook:
Wallace is an elite fantasy receiver. His reception totals won't be too high, but he'll be among the league leaders in yards and touchdowns. He can improve on last season, getting 1,400 or so yards and 12 touchdowns. Remember, he'll have Ben Roethlisberger throwing him passes from day one this season. He deserves to be one of the first 10 receivers taken come draft day. | | #31 | Jimmy Graham (TE) | TDs: 5 Yds: 356 | New Orleans | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Graham emerged the second half of the season and became the top pass-catching tight end for the Saints. He had four touchdowns the last three games and at least three receptions six of the last eight games. Graham scored five touchdowns on 31 receptions in 15 games. He is the future at tight end for the Saints. Graham should be the starter from day one this season in a pass-happy Saints' offense. Graham is a big target with top speed and the ability to make the tough catch. His route running still needs some work because of his lack of experience at the position, but he is making big strides in that area. He gives the Saints another big-play threat in the passing game.
Fantasy Outlook:
Graham is a rising star at tight end. He could really double last season's totals after doing next to nothing about half a season. Graham has the potential to get 60 receptions for 700 yards and around double-digit scores. Consider him a legit No. 1 tight end his second season in the league. His upside is very high. | | #32 | Andre Johnson (WR) | TDs: 8 Yds: 1216 | Houston | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Johnson battled a sprained ankle much of the season, which hurt his production, but he still produced his usual dependable numbers despite missing three games. He had his third straight 1,000-yard season and scored eight touchdowns. Johnson had 100-plus receptions three of the last four seasons before last year. Johnson turns 30 before the start of the season, but seems to have plenty left in the tank. He is the go-to option in the Texans offense. Johnson is the complete package at receiver. He can run, but also has great size. Johnson isn't afraid to make the tough catch and has the speed to stretch the field to make big plays.
Fantasy Outlook:
Johnson has yet to score double-digit touchdowns in his career, which hurts his fantasy value. If he consistently got the scores, he would be the clear No. 1 fantasy receiver. He was on his way to double-digit scores last season before the injury, which is encouraging. Johnson is a top-three fantasy receiver capable of leading all receivers in scoring. He can have another season with 100 receptions and 1,500 yards and around 10 touchdowns. | | #33 | Dwayne Bowe (WR) | TDs: 15 Yds: 1162 | Kansas City | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Bowe finally put it all together last season, having a career year for a resurgent Chiefs' offense. Bowe scored 15 touchdowns, putting him among the league leaders. He also topped 1,000 yards for the second time in his career and had 70 or more receptions for the third time in four seasons. Bowe was nearly unstoppable for a seven-week stretch of games. In those seven games, he scored 13 touchdowns and had four 100-yard games. Bowe did come crashing back down to earth some after those games, getting a catch for three yards the next two games. He was able to rebound a little after those two games, which was encouraging (notched a 100-yard game two weeks later). He'll continue to be the top target in the Chiefs' offense, which is run first but showing the tendency to pass a tad more. Bowe has a lot of ability. He is a big, strong receiver that isn't afraid to make the tough catch. He also is a load to bring down in the space because of his size and elusiveness. Bowe still struggles with some drops, lacking concentration at times.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bowe is probably going to go too high based off last season. He isn't likely to match his touchdown totals, especially with the Chiefs playing a tougher schedule. Bowe struggled against the better defenses last season. Even with that said, he can have a 1,000-yard season and get around 10 touchdowns. He is a low-end No. 1 or top No. 2 fantasy receiver. | | #34 | Victor Cruz (WR) | TDs: 0 Yds: 0 | New York Giants | Bye: 7 | | | | | #35 | Jason Witten (TE) | TDs: 9 Yds: 1002 | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Witten had another banner season last year, topping 1,000 yards for the second straight season. It was his third 1,000-yard season the last four years. He also had 94 receptions for the second straight season. Witten did set a career high last season, scoring nine touchdowns. His previous high for scores was just seven. Witten had three games with double-digit receptions and scored touchdowns his last five games. He had five games with 80-plus yards. Witten has some competition for targets in Dallas, but will get plenty of chances in the passing game. He is a favorite target of Tony Romo. Witten is an athletic tight end with above-average speed. He does well in traffic and has very good hands.
Fantasy Outlook:
You can make a strong case for Witten to be the first tight end off the board. His numbers don't lie. He is good for 90-plus receptions for 1,000 yards. His reception and yardage totals will be among or the best of any tight end. The only thing that doesn't make Witten the sure No. 1 overall tight end are his lack of scores. He has yet to score double-digit touchdowns for his career and averages five per season for his career. | | #36 | Brandon Marshall (WR) | TDs: 3 Yds: 1014 | Miami | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Marshall missed two games because of injury (hamstring) for the first time in his career, but still topped 1,000 yards his first season with the Dolphins. He has four straight 1,000-yard seasons, but his reception total (86) was his lowest since his rookie season. The Dolphins erratic quarterback play didn't help matters for Marshall. As the Dolphins offense struggled, Marshall had some down games. He still had plenty of big performances, though, having four 100-yard and double-digit reception games. Marshall has some attitude concerns, but produces when on the field. He is a huge target with great hands. Marshall makes a ton of plays after the catch, which is amazing for a receiver of his size. He is tough to bring down once the ball is in his hands because of his size. The Dolphins are a run-first team, but Marshall will get most of the targets in the passing game when they throw as they don't have much around him to compete with.
Fantasy Outlook:
His touchdown total last season (3) is a concern, but his other numbers remain as good as ever. He is a top-five pick in PPR leagues. It wouldn't surprise to see him return to his 100-reception totals as long as he plays a full season. He should top 1,000 yard and get seven or so touchdowns. If you aren't in a PPR league, consider Marshall a low-end No. 1 because of his touchdown numbers (double-digit scores just once in five seasons). | | #37 | Tom Brady (QB) | TDs: 36 Yds: 3900 | New England | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
It is hard to imagine, but Brady might have enjoyed his best season last year. He posted gaudier numbers in 2007, but he had less to work with at receiver this past season and was near flawless much of the year. He had just four interceptions all season, going the last 11 games of the regular season without an interception. Brady had 37 total touchdowns to four interceptions. He had four 300-yard games and finished just shy of another 4,000-yard season (3,900). Brady was healthy, a year removed from major knee surgery, and as efficient as ever. In his last six full seasons, Brady averages 4,073-passing yards and 32 touchdown passes. He also has 24 or more total touchdowns eight straight full seasons. The Patriots remain a pass-first team with Brady at the helm. New England doesn't have the most exciting group of receivers anymore, but some promising younger options (mostly at tight end). Brady does a great job of distributing the ball to all his options and rarely turns the ball over. He has a strong arm and is extremely accurate. Brady knows the offense well and makes the most of his abilities.
Fantasy Outlook:
The numbers don't lie. Brady is an elite fantasy quarterback. You can make a strong case for him to be the top quarterback this season, especially with some emerging talents at tight end (guys that are top red-zone targets). You can pencil Brady in for 4,000 yards and 30-plus touchdowns. His consistency makes him a very safe fantasy quarterback and is a reason why some owners like to splurge early on a quarterback. | | #38 | Mike Williams (WR) | TDs: 11 Yds: 955 | Tampa Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Williams exceeded most expectations his rookie season, becoming the go-to No. 1 receiver in the Bucs' offense. He just missed hitting the 1,000-yard mark and scored 11 touchdowns, putting him among the league leaders at receiver. Williams scored touchdowns three of his first four games, becoming an instant hit in the red zone for the Bucs. Williams had five games with 80-plus yards and was targeted double-digit times four times throughout the season. He should be the top target for an emerging Bucs' offense for years to come. Williams is a big-time talent. He had some character concerns out of college, but did a good job of putting those to rest his rookie year. Williams has good size and strength, and does well in making plays downfield. He is an explosive player and top red-zone threat because of his size. He isn't lacking much as a receiver at such a young age.
Fantasy Outlook:
Williams is a low-end No. 1 for fantasy teams. He will top 1,000 yards and score double-digit touchdowns in this offense. The Bucs' passing game is getting better and better, making Williams an intriguing target for fantasy teams. His receptions totals will be a little less than the elite guys, which keeps him from that top No. 1 range. He should get around 80 catches. | | #39 | Matthew Stafford (QB) | TDs: 6 Yds: 535 | Detroit | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Stafford had another injury-plagued season. He hurt his shoulder a couple different times before eventually landing on Injured Reserve. Stafford had surgery on the shoulder in late January and needs four months of recovery time. He should be ready for training camp, though, and be the No. 1 quarterback to open the season for the Lions. Stafford played well when healthy last season. He played just three games, but had seven total touchdowns to one interception and completed 59 percent of his passes. The Lions have an emerging offense, especially the passing game, which enjoyed a lot of success last season even with Stafford sidelined. Stafford's shoulder is the big question mark heading into this season. The ability is there for Stafford to succeed if healthy. Stafford has a huge arm, moves around the picket well and is a big, strong kid. His accuracy is improving as is his decision making, which is the progress you hope to see in a young quarterback.
Fantasy Outlook:
Stafford is a risk because of his injury history, but you have to love his upside. Taking a chance on him as a No. 2 is a risk worth taking for fantasy teams. He could produce like a true No. 1 when healthy and playing. A full season should get Stafford around 4,000 yards and 25-plus scores. | | #40 | Philip Rivers (QB) | TDs: 30 Yds: 4710 | San Diego | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Despite having erratic options at receiver much of the season, Rivers had maybe his best season as a pro. He worked without Vincent Jackson and Antonio Gates much of the season, but still had a career high in yards (4,710) and scored 30 touchdowns for the second time in his career. Rivers had six 300-yard games last year, including two of those games with 400-plus yards. Rivers was the one consistent in the Chargers offense. He has topped 4,000 yards three straight seasons and averaged 31 total touchdowns per season during that stretch. Rivers has completed 65 percent of his passes each of the last three years. He is scary accurate. Rivers also rarely makes mistakes despite throwing the ball a ton (460-plus pass attempts each of the last five seasons). Rivers doesn't have great foot speed, but moves around the pocket well and can make plays on the move. The Chargers offense is pass-first with Rivers leading the way for the team.
Fantasy Outlook:
Rivers is a top-five fantasy quarterback. He is capable of leading fantasy quarterbacks in scoring, especially after his impressive 2010. If he gets all his playmakers on the field for most of the year this season, Rivers can post career highs. He is just hitting his prime. We don't have a problem taking Rivers first at quarterback this season. Expect another season near 5,000 yards and 30 touchdowns. | | #41 | Tony Romo (QB) | TDs: 11 Yds: 1605 | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Romo had his season cut short because of a broken shoulder. It was his non-throwing shoulder, though, so the injury shouldn't have any long-term impact. He'll be ready to go for 2011. Before getting hurt, Romo was completing a high number of passes (69 percent) but was a little more turnover prone, having seven interceptions to 11 touchdown passes. He had just nine interceptions the previous season. Romo didn't seem on the same page with some of his receivers, though, which caused some of his issues. But he has some stars to work with in the passing game with Miles Austin, Jason Witten and Dez Bryant at his disposal. Before last season, Romo averaged 30 touchdowns per season the previous three years. He also has 4,000-yard seasons two of the four he has started and finished the season healthy. Romo has a plus arm and does a good job of making plays on the run. Romo will force a few throws on occasion, but his high-risk ways also lead to some big plays for the passing game. He throws a great deep ball.
Fantasy Outlook:
Romo cut down on his mistakes last year (just nine interceptions), which improved his fantasy value. He'll get you 4,000-passing yards and around 30 touchdowns, making him an elite fantasy quarterback. Romo will have a few down games, but usually makes up for that with some huge performances. Feel comfortable taking him as a top-five fantasy option at quarterback. | | #42 | Eli Manning (QB) | TDs: 31 Yds: 4002 | New York Giants | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Overall, Manning had a pretty big statistical season, but ended on a bit of a down note. He had one or less touchdowns three of the last five games while getting picked off nine times during that stretch. He was a lot more turnover prone, getting intercepted a career-high 25 times. The good news is Manning had a career-high 31 touchdowns and broke the 4,000-yard mark the second straight season. He had four 300-yard games. In six seasons as starter, Manning averages 26 total touchdowns per season. Manning has a very good arm and continues to improve his accuracy. He has the intangibles to be an elite quarterback and seems to be finally making a name for himself in the NFL. If there is a knock on Manning, it is he some throws and makes poor decisions. The Giants are a more balanced offense these days with a good group of young receivers, which is good news for Manning.
Fantasy Outlook:
Manning flies under the radar at times, but you can't ignore his consistency. He plays in a good Giants offense with a lot of playmakers at receiver. Manning comes just after the elite group of fantasy quarterbacks, but is nipping at that group pretty close. He should get you around 4,000 yards and 30 scores, which should make many fantasy teams happy. | | #43 | Ben Roethlisberger (QB) | TDs: 17 Yds: 3200 | Pittsburgh | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Big Ben was suspended the first four games of the season, but didn't let that deter his 2010 season. Roethlisberger played at a high level during his 12 games of action. He still managed to throw for 3,000-plus yards and had 19 total touchdowns to just five interceptions. If Roethlisberger plays a full season, he throws for 4,267 yards and scores 25 touchdowns. He has just one season with 4,000-plus passing yards but has 28 or more scores twice in his career. The Steelers ran more last season but still didn't have a ton of success running the ball. Their passing game is the strength of their offense, especially with the emergence of receiver Mike Wallace. Roethlisberger has a great arm and is an accurate passer. He might be the best quarterback in the game at prolonging a play because of his size and strength.
Fantasy Outlook:
Roethlisberger is a legit No. 1 quarterback. He is ready for a huge season and it wouldn't surprise to see 2011 be that season. Roethlisberger is a good guy to grab after the elite options as he can be a more than serviceable No. 1 for fantasy teams at a lower cost to fantasy teams. A season with 4,000-plus yards and 30 touchdowns is a real possibility. | | #44 | Chris Wells (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 397 | Arizona | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Wells endured an extremely disappointing second season. He failed to rush for more than 75 yards in any game and finished with fewer than 400-rushing yards. He averaged a paltry 3.4 yards per carry. He had a sore knee heading into the season, which didn't help matters for Wells. He never got on track, missing three games while being slowed some in others. It also didn't help matters that the Cardinals got terrible quarterback play throughout the season, stalling the entire offense. Wells has potential, though, which he flashed his rookie season (936 total yards and seven touchdowns). At one point, it looked like Wells had some competition for carries this year but that isn't the case because of injuries and trade. Wells will be the No. 1 back for the Cardinals. Wells runs well for his size and can make tacklers miss with his good moves in the open field. He seems to lack some breakaway speed and doesn't always setup his blocks well. He also has failed to knock his injury label, missing time last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Wells is a good buy-low candidate but don't overvalue him based on playing time. Wells is worth a look as a low-end No. 2 back, but don't expect a huge season. He has plenty of talent, but seems to lack the burst to be a star running back. He could get 1,100 total yards and a few scores if all goes well this season. | | #45 | Vincent Jackson (WR) | TDs: 3 Yds: 248 | San Diego | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Jackson held out most of the season in hopes for a long-term contract, but a new contract never materialized and Jackson eventually caved. He played the last five games of the season, ending his holdout. He made his fantasy impact Week 15, catching five passes for 112 yards and three touchdowns. Jackson showed his worth in the Chargers' offense. He is their top receiver in the passing game. Before last season, Jackson had two straight 1,000-yard seasons. He averages 17.2 yards per reception for his career, proving he is a top deep threat at receiver. Jackson is a big receiver with good leaping ability and plus speed. The Chargers are a pass-first offense with Jackson serving as their top receiver. He'll get plenty of chances from day one this season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jackson might be overlooked some after last season, but don't forget about him. He is a low-end No. 1 for fantasy teams. His reception totals won't be as high as some of the elite guys, but he can finish among the league leaders in yardage and scored double-digit touchdowns. It wouldn't surprise to see Jackson set career highs across the board this season - 75 receptions for 1,250 yards and 10 touchdowns. | | #46 | DeSean Jackson (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1056 | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Jackson missed a couple games because of injury but still managed his second straight 1,000-yard season. He was the top big-play threat in the league at receiver, averaging a whopping 22.5 yards per reception. Jackson has four 100-yard games, including a 210-yard performance Week 14 against the Cowboys. Jackson did disappear some games, though, having 50 or fewer yards seven times. He wasn't too consistent, losing some targets to fellow starter Jeremy Maclin and emerging running back LeSean McCoy. For his career, Jackson averages 57 receptions for 1,041 yards and seven total touchdowns per season. He is in just his fourth season so Jackson is still growing and hitting the prime of his career. Jackson has a load of talent. He has great speed and the ability to break a big play every time he touches the ball. Jackson also has good hands for a young receiver. He is the No. 1 receiver in a good Eagles passing game, but does have some competition at receiver for targets. And don't forget the Eagles try to get him involved in the running game and on special teams. He has a rushing touchdown in each of his first three seasons. Jackson is a top return man, returning six touchdowns for his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jackson is an elite fantasy option. He is capable of a monster game any given week because of his top playmaking ability. Jackson isn't quite as dependable as some of the top guys, though, because he isn't quite as consistent from week to week. He can carry a team any given week, though. His value isn't quite as high in PPR leagues because he doesn't get the catches as the top receivers, but his yardage and touchdown totals will be among the league leaders. Another 1,000-yard season and double-digit scores seem likely for Jackson in 2011. | | #47 | DeAngelo Williams (RB) | TDs: 1 Yds: 361 | Carolina | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Williams suffered a foot injury Week 7 and was placed on Injured Reserve, missing the rest of the season. He wasn't having a great year before the injury, failing to top 100 yards any game. His season high rushing was 86 yards. The one positive was a respectable 4.2 yards per carry. His foot injury shouldn't be an issue heading into 2011. Williams had back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons before last year. At age 28, he remains a solid starter with big-play ability. He averages five yards per carry for his career. Williams is a big-play back. He also will run with some power, but is a home-run threat with the ball in his hands. Williams is a much more patient runner than earlier in his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Williams is a good buy-low candidate. He really only has one great season under his belt, but that season was a difference maker for fantasy teams. Williams is capable of carrying a team if all is well. Consider him a low-end No. 2 back with upside. He seems setup for another 1,000-yard season and around eight or so scores. | | #48 | Jermichael Finley (TE) | TDs: 1 Yds: 301 | Green Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Finley was on his way to a career season, but a knee injury cut short his season after just five games. Finley tore his meniscus and needed surgery. He even got an infection in the knee after the surgery, which caused further complications. Finley endured another surgery to clear up the infection, landing him on Injured Reserve. Finley should be ready for the start of training camp this year. His original knee injury wasn't too serious as far as knee injuries go. Finely had 100-yard games two of his first four last season and had at least four receptions in all of those games. He is a big part of the Packers' passing game and should be for years to come. Finley is a speedy, athletic tight end, making him a tough cover for oppositions. Finley has similar moves to a receiver but with a lot more size. He still isn't a great blocker, but improving some in that area. Finley should get plenty of targets in the Packers pass-happy offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Finley is a top-five fantasy tight end, capable of leading all tight ends in fantasy scoring. He can build on his big '09 season. Finley can finish with 900 yards and eight touchdowns in this offense. He is a bit of a risk after his knee injury, but his upside is as high as any tight end in the game. | | #49 | Jeremy Maclin (WR) | TDs: 10 Yds: 964 | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Maclin broke out his second season in the league. He fell just short of 1,000 yards (964) but had 70 receptions and 10 touchdowns. He was the most consistent receiving option for the Eagles. Maclin had two 100-yard games and at least three receptions in all but three games. He already has 126 receptions in two NFL seasons. And Maclin is young enough (23) to keep getting better and better. He is a big-play receiver for the Eagles.
Maclin has top speed and a knack for making big plays. Maclin is a much improved route runner and does a great job of making plays after the catch. He will continue to start in the Eagles' pass-first offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Maclin will be even better this season. He seems a good bet for his first 1,000-yard season and double-digit touchdowns once again. He is an emerging fantasy star in a very good offense. Maclin is a top No. 2 fantasy receiver heading into the '11 season. He is close to being a low-end No. 1 but not quite yet with DeSean Jackson stealing targets and touchdowns from him. | | #50 | Reggie Wayne (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1355 | Indianapolis | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Wayne actually set a career high his 10th season in the league. He set a career high in receptions with 111. Wayne has 100 or more receptions three of the last four seasons. He has seven straight 1,000-yard seasons. Wayne also had his second highest yardage total of his career last year (1,355). He had four 100-yard games and three double-digit reception games. Wayne did have a sore knee much of the year, but played the whole season. He has played in every game each of the past nine seasons. Wayne is 32 and has endured a lot of punishment, but remains the No. 1 receiver in the Colts' pass-happy offense. He is a dependable, durable receiver. Wayne used to be mostly a top deep threat, but has emerged as one of the better possession receivers in the game. He has great hands and rapport with quarterback Peyton Manning.
Fantasy Outlook:
Wayne is due for a falloff sometime soon. He had some up and down games last season, but still played at a high level much of the year. He can get another 1,000-yard season but topping 100 receptions might not happen again. And his lack of scores (six two of the last three seasons) puts him a notch below the elite fantasy receivers. He seems like a good guy to let another team take this season based on where he should be drafted. | | #51 | Miles Austin (WR) | TDs: 7 Yds: 1041 | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Austin didn't quite match his breakout season from 2009, but he still finished with solid numbers as the top option in the Cowboys' passing game. He hit the 1,000-yard mark for the second straight season. Austin had 100-yard games three of the first four to start the season, but hit that mark just two more times the rest of the way. Austin faded some, especially after Tony Romo got hurt. A healthy Romo should produce more consistent numbers for Austin. Over the last two seasons, Austin averages 75 receptions for 1,181 yards and nine touchdowns. He has Dez Bryant to compete with for targets at receiver, but should continue to get plenty of work in a pass-friendly offense. Austin is a big-play threat with the ball in his hands. He is a tall, lean receiver with plus speed. Austin still isn't quite as polished as a route runner as some of the elite receivers, but continues to get better in that area. He is young enough (27) to continue to improve his craft.
Fantasy Outlook:
Austin was down a little last year, so consider him a good buy-low candidate. He'll go lower than last season but still has the potential to reach his '09 numbers. Austin will lose targets to Dez Bryant and Jason Witten, but he is the top big-play threat in this offense. He is good for another 1,000-yard season and near double-digit scores. Consider him an elite No. 2 receiver for fantasy teams. | | #52 | Matt Ryan (QB) | TDs: 28 Yds: 3706 | Atlanta | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Like many young quarterbacks, Ryan had a breakout season his third in the league. He posted career highs in yards, touchdowns, completion percentage and threw the fewest interceptions of his career. Ryan threw for almost 4,000 yards and had 28 touchdowns to just nine interceptions. Ryan has 50 touchdown passes his last two seasons. Ryan had touchdowns in all but a game last season and had multiple touchdown games nine times. He took his game to a different level last season. The Falcons like to run the ball with Michael Turner, but aren't afraid to put the ball in Ryan's hands. He gets his chances, averaging 36 pass attempts per game last season. Ryan is an accurate, intelligent quarterback with a strong arm and the ability to fit the ball in tight spaces. He also has a great grasp of what the Falcons are trying to do offensively. And having Roddy White on his side doesn't hurt matters for Ryan.
Fantasy Outlook:
Ryan has become a legit No. 1 fantasy quarterback. His numbers keep getting better and better. We are looking for his first 4,000-yard season this year. He'll get you around 30 scores as well, making him one of the first 10 quarterbacks that should come off the board come draft day. He is the real deal. | | #53 | Aaron Hernandez (TE) | TDs: 6 Yds: 563 | New England | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Hernandez was a big-play threat at tight end for the Patriots his rookie season. He averaged 12.5 yards per reception and scored six touchdowns. He did disappear a few games (four games with less than 20 yards) but had some big showings in others (five games with five-plus receptions and a 100-yard game). Hernandez should continue to get plenty of chances in the Patriots' pass-first offense. He won't get as much playing time as Rob Gronkowski because he isn't much of a blocker, but the Patriots will split Hernandez out wide as a receiver often. He creates mismatches for the opposition because he is a top athlete and pass catcher. He can makes plays downfield because of his top speed and athleticism for the position.
Fantasy Outlook:
Hernandez has obvious upside in this offense. He had a big showing his rookie season and could improve on that his second year. It wouldn't surprise to see him get around 55 receptions for 650 yards and seven touchdowns. He is a low-end No. 1 tight end for fantasy teams but won't be quite as consistent as some of the top options. | | #54 | Tim Hightower (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 736 | Washington | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Hightower was all over the place last season. He had a couple big 100-yard games, rushed for fewer than 50 yards in 11 other games and endured some fumbling issues, drawing the ire of his coach. But in the end, Hightower finished with a career-high 736-rushing yards. His rushing totals have gone up every year in the league. He averages 578-rushing yards per season. Hightower also does a good job as a receiver out of the backfield, catching 118 passes in three seasons. He did have a career-low 21 receptions last season, though. Hightower heads to Washington to compete for the starter's job. He has a host of backs to compete with but should at least get some playing time even if he doesn't start. Hightower is a powerful back with pretty good speed but isn't a game changer. He seems best suited as a third-down back or short-yardage option.
Fantasy Outlook:
Hightower has some value as a No. 3 or 4 back because he has good touchdown potential and he'll get a decent number of receptions, giving him more value in PPR leagues. His yardage totals won't be great, though. It would be a big surprise to see him top last year's totals. A season with 500 total yards and five touchdowns seems about right for Hightower. | | #55 | Vernon Davis (TE) | TDs: 7 Yds: 914 | San Francisco | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Despite erratic quarterback play, Davis posted another big season. His touchdown totals were down (seven), Davis still got plenty of receptions (56) and yards (914). Davis had two 100-yard games last season. He has two straight seasons with 900-plus yards. Over the last two seasons, Davis averages 67 receptions for 940 yards and 10 touchdowns. Davis has finally lived up to his potential the last few seasons. Davis should continue to be a huge part of the 49ers offense, especially with a new offense installed this year. His role could increase even more. Davis has the speed of a receiver, but the size of a tight end. He is a great over athlete, making a ton of plays with the ball in his hands as well as making the tough catch in key situations.
Fantasy Outlook:
Davis should continue to be a top-five fantasy tight end. He has the ability for a 1,000-yard season and double-digit scores. You can make a case for Davis being the top overall fantasy tight end this season. He plays in a system that utilizes the tight end often and is a good bet for a lot of touchdowns. You can't go wrong with Davis as your No. 1 tight end in 2011. | | #56 | Ahmad Bradshaw (RB) | TDs: 8 Yds: 1235 | New York Giants | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Bradshaw got his first shot as being full-time starter at running back and did well in the role. He finished with more than 1,500 total yards and scored eight touchdowns. He had four 100-yard games and made it through a full season for the first time in his career. He apparently played the last six games of the season with a broken wrist, which didn't seem to hamper him. Bradshaw also needed minor surgery on his ankle during the offseason, which is somewhat of a concern considering all his ankle issues in the past. Bradshaw is in the prime of his career at age 25. In the last two seasons, he averaged 1,267 total yards and eight touchdowns. Bradshaw is a shifty back with elite speed. He has home run potential with the ball in his hands. Bradshaw isn't the biggest back, though, which lends him to injury but he proved last season he can play a full season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bradshaw is an injury risk, but he has a ton of potential. He can top last year's numbers if he plays a full season. He is an elite No. 2 back for fantasy teams, capable of getting 1,800 total yards and around double-digit touchdowns. Bradshaw is one injury risk worth taking a chance. | | #57 | Fred Jackson (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 927 | Buffalo | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Just like the previous season, it took some time but Jackson eventually emerged as the lead back in Buffalo and led the team in rushing last season. He had three 100-yard rushing games and a 100-yard receiving game. He finished the year with 1,142 total yards and seven touchdowns, which is pretty impressive considering he had 22 touches his first four games of the season. His seven touchdowns were a career high and Jackson has two straight seasons with 1,000-plus total yards. C.J. Spiller will be in the mix for carries at running back, but Jackson should have the lead role and get more of the share each week. His play has earned that right. Jackson isn't a huge back, but has top speed and great moves in the open field. He still needs to work some on his inside running, but is improving in that area. Jackson also is a very good receiver, catching 31 or more passes three straight seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jackson is a good guy to target as a low-end No. 2 back this season. He is worth grabbing after the first few rounds of your draft. Jackson has good potential, coming off two solid seasons. He will lose some work to Spiller, but how many backs carry the whole load alone these days? A season with 1,300 total yards and eight touchdowns is a good possibility for Jackson in 2011. | | #58 | Sam Bradford (QB) | TDs: 18 Yds: 3512 | St Louis | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Bradford had a tremendous rookie season. He did have some struggles to end the season (two touchdowns to six interceptions last five games), but his overall year was better than expected. He threw for more than 3,500 yards, broke a record for rookie pass attempts and completions, and finished with more touchdowns than interceptions for the season. He played every game and took every snap, showing he could be a durable NFL starter. And at one point during the season, Bradford went four straight games without an interception. Bradford posted all these numbers with a rag-tag group of receivers. The Rams get some options back healthy this season and added more talent to the mix, which will benefit Bradford. Plus, Bradford gets Josh McDaniels as his offensive coordinator. McDaniels has a history of producing big quarterback numbers. Bradford is a star in the making. He has all the tools to be a top NFL quarterback. He can make all the throws, is extremely accurate, and his ability to make plays with his legs is underrated. Bradford still needs a little work reading defenses and getting up to speed with the NFL game, but is progressing quickly area.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bradford is going to be an elite fantasy player - maybe not this season but he'll show glimpses of that. You have to like his potential with McDaniels calling plays. It would not surprise to see Bradford top 4,000 yards and finish with near 30 touchdowns. He has that ability, especially in this new offense. For this year, consider him a low-end No. 1 or top No. 2 for fantasy teams. | | #59 | Dez Bryant (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 561 | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Bryant had his rookie season cut short because of a broken leg, but played pretty well before his season ended after 12 games. He had 45 receptions for 561 yards and six touchdowns. Bryant had a 100-yard game and eight games with three or more receptions. He was becoming a top target in the Cowboys' passing game before the injury. Bryant should continue to start for the Cowboys and could even challenge Miles Austin for the No. 1 spot at receiver. But Bryant will have to stay out of trouble. He has some off the field concerns and character issues. Bryant is being sued and was issued a criminal trespass warning at a mall this offseason. The talent is there, though, for big things. Bryant has top speed and a knack for making big plays. He also has great hands, giving him the ability to make some spectacular catches. He has natural ability for the position. His route running still needs some work but Bryant is making strides.
Fantasy Outlook:
Consider Bryant a young Terrell Owens. He has the talent to be an elite fantasy receiver but you just never know when he'll implode. But if Bryant puts it together this season and blocks all the other stuff out. He can get 1,200 yards and double-digit touchdowns. It is probably a good idea to take him as an elite No. 2 fantasy receiver rather than a No. 1. | | #60 | Kenny Britt (WR) | TDs: 9 Yds: 775 | Tennessee | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Britt realized his potential last season, emerging as the top receiver in the Titans' passing game. He had 775-receiving yards and nine touchdowns despite missing four games because of injury (hamstring). Britt had two 100-yard games, including a monster showing Week 7 against the Eagles. He caught seven passes for 225 yards and three touchdowns in that game. He still has some character and work ethic concerns, but the talent is there for Britt to be a big-time receiver in the NFL. Britt is a big target that runs good routes and is capable of making a big-play in a hurry because of his top speed. He can take it to another level in a hurry. Britt will struggle with drops at times, but his concentration seems to be improving in this area. He should be the top receiver for Tennessee for years to come. The Titans are a run-first offense but aren't afraid to take some chances through the air as evident by Britt's production last season. Britt has been in all sorts of trouble this offseason, though, and likely faces league punishment.
Fantasy Outlook:
Britt has some concerns but you can't ignore his talent and potential. He can enjoy his first 1,000-yard season this year as well as reaching double-digit touchdowns if he can stay on the field, which seems a big "if" right now. Consider him a boom or bust No. 2 receiver for fantasy teams. He possess immense potential but not sure he'll ever reach that because of immaturity. | | #61 | Brandon Lloyd (WR) | TDs: 11 Yds: 1448 | St Louis | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Better late than never, right? This can be said about the career of Lloyd, who finally had a breakout season last season, his eighth year in the league. Lloyd had his first 1,000-yard season and was among the league leaders in receptions, yards and touchdowns. Lloyd was nearly unstoppable all season, notching six 100-yard games and at least three receptions in all but two games. He emerged as the clear No. 1 receiver in the Broncos' offense. He seems in the prime of his career at age 30. The problem for Lloyd this season is he will be in a more run-first offense. The Broncos threw, threw and threw some more last season with Josh McDaniels calling plays, but that won't be the case with the conservative John Fox as the new head coach. Lloyd should lead the team in targets, though, as the top receiver in the offense. Lloyd is a top deep threat because of his speed and ability to stretch the field. His route running improved last season as well as his hands, which was the main reason for his breakthrough season. Lloyd made some acrobatic catches last season, showing off his top athletic ability.
Fantasy Outlook:
Lloyd isn't going to be able to repeat last season, but still consider him a low-end No. 1 or solid No. 2 fantasy receiver. He isn't a flash in the pan as he always had ability and flashed big-time potential. Don't draft him based off last year, but don't be surprised to see him get you 70 receptions for 1,100 yards and eight or so touchdowns. | | #62 | Isaac Redman (RB) | TDs: 0 Yds: 247 | Pittsburgh | Bye: 11 | | | | | #63 | Santonio Holmes (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 746 | New York Jets | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Holmes was suspended the first four games of last season, but still had a pretty good season. He had nearly 750-receiving yards and scored six touchdowns. Holmes averaged 62 yards per game, which would have given him 995-receiving yards if he had played a full season. Holmes had two 100-yard games last year and scored touchdowns in two of the three Jets' playoff games. He is the top receiver in the Jets' passing attack. The Jets have a run-first offense, but showed last season they aren't afraid to air it out if needed. Holmes has just one 1,000-yard season for his career, but has averaged 916-receiving yards per season for his career. Holmes is a great athlete with top speed. He is a top deep threat capable of making the remarkable catch. He continues to improve his route running and pass-catching ability, but will suffer from the occasional big drop.
Fantasy Outlook:
Holmes isn't an elite option, but a top No. 2 for fantasy teams. He is capable of big things. His career-high in touchdowns is eight, which hurts his value, but expect a 1,000-yard season and 70 or so receptions. | | #64 | Percy Harvin (WR) | TDs: 5 Yds: 871 | Minnesota | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Harvin missed a couple games because of migraine issues, but still posted his best season to date. He was the top target for the Vikings' passing game all season, a passing game that struggled with inconsistent quarterback play. Harvin still managed 71 receptions for 868 yards - both were career highs. He has 12 offensive touchdowns in two seasons. Harvin also is an elite return man, scoring three kick return touchdowns for his career. Needless to say, Harvin is a top playmaker with the ball in his hands. The Vikings will continue to find plenty of ways to get him involved in the offense this season. Harvin has great speed and moves in the open field. He is a dangerous weapon with the ball in his hands. He lacks some size, but plays bigger than his size, not shying away from contact over the middle and in the red zone.
Fantasy Outlook:
Harvin has a ton of potential, which he always flashes when playing. But his migraine issues are a concern. You should almost count on him missing a game or two because of his problems with migraines. But even with that said, you can't ignore his upside. He is a good bet to have a 1,000-yard season and near double-digit scores if the Vikings get more consistent quarterback play and Harvin can stay healthy. Consider him a top No. 2 for fantasy teams. | | #65 | Marques Colston (WR) | TDs: 7 Yds: 1023 | New Orleans | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Colston produced his second straight 1,000-yard season and has topped 1,000 yards four of five years in the NFL. He had the second most receptions of his career last season, catching 84 passes. Colston has been very steady as the top option in the Saints passing game. In his four healthy seasons, Colston averages 81 receptions for 1,084 yards and nine touchdowns. Colston has some injury concerns (knee issues), but produces when healthy. He is a big target with plus speed. Colston drops the occasional pass, but runs good routes and will make the tough catch in traffic. The Saints are a pass-first team that spreads the ball to a host of receivers, but Colston is a good bet to lead the receivers in targets as their No. 1 receiver.
Fantasy Outlook:
Colston isn't quite an elite fantasy receiver, but just outside that group. His reception totals aren't among the top guys, but he can top 1,000 yards and near double-digit touchdowns. He is a more than serviceable No. 1 for fantasy teams. | | #66 | Steve Johnson (WR) | TDs: 10 Yds: 1073 | Buffalo | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Johnson had a monster season, starting from day one for the Bills last season. He had his first 1,000-yard season as a pro and also topped 80 receptions. Johnson had three 100-yard games and 10 touchdowns. At one point, he had touchdowns five straight games. Johnson emerged as the go-to target in the Bills' passing game. He should continue to get plenty of chances in a somewhat emerging offense. Johnson has decent size for the receiver spot. He runs well, makes the tough stretch and is a big-play threat. He did struggle with a few key drops last season, but is young enough to get that corrected. Johnson is in the prime of his career at age 25.
Fantasy Outlook:
Johnson might have been the surprise receiver of last season. He was a fantasy stud, especially if you consider most got him off the waiver wire. That won't happen this year. You'll have to use an early pick to get Johnson. He can actually improve on last season, especially if the Bills' offense continues to grow. A season with around 90 receptions for 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns seems in the works for Johnson, making him a low-end No. 1 or top No. 2 fantasy receiver. | | #67 | Stevan Ridley (RB) | | New England | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Ridley joins the Patriots crowded backfield. He gives the team a different dimension at running back, though. Ridley is a power back. He is a big, powerful back, excelling between the tackles. Ridley isn't afraid to run over a defender in the open field. Ridley isn't much of a receiver, though, which could limit his playing time. His running style could net him the goal-line work in an explosive offense, though.
Fantasy Outlook:
Ridley has some fantasy potential his rookie season. He probably won't get a ton of yards but could near double-digit touchdowns if he emerges as the goal-line back, which seems likely. Expect his yards to be around 500 or so. Take him as a low-end No. 3 or 4 back for the coming season. | | #68 | Marshawn Lynch (RB) | TDs: 6 Yds: 737 | Seattle | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Lynch was traded to the Seahawks early in the season and took over as their No. 1 back. He didn't do much until a great showing in the Seahawks playoff opener. Lynch had a memorable playoff run, sealing the upset win for Seattle as he ran by, through and over several would-be tacklers. Lynch finished the game with a season-high 131-rushing yards. Lynch didn't top 100 yards in any other game last season. Lynch averaged just 3.7 yards per carry for the season, having a hard time finding room to run behind a bad Seahawks offensive line. He ran for 737 yards despite playing the entire season. Lynch topped 1,000 yards his first two years in the season, but hasn't reached that mark since 2008. He is 25 years old, though, and doesn't have a ton of work under his belt, so Lynch has time to get it going. Lynch certainly has talent. He is a big back with top speed and big-play ability. He also is a pretty good receiver out of the backfield. He has fought consistency throughout his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Lynch is worth a shot as a No. 3 back. He certainly has some upside. You never know, he could be the Darren McFadden of 2011. It could happen. But you can't ignore his past production, which hasn't been good in recent seasons. So take a chance on him as a reserve back and hope for the best. If all goes well for him, he could get you about 1,300 total yards and eight or so touchdowns. | | #69 | Owen Daniels (TE) | TDs: 2 Yds: 471 | Houston | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
It took some time, but Daniels finally got back to health late last season and it showed in his play. He was slowed early in the year, returning from a torn ACL. But to make matters worse, he suffered a hamstring injury that kept him out of several games. He played very well the last four games, though, catching 22 passes for 271 yards and two touchdowns. His overall season wasn't too bad, considering he played 11 games. Daniels still had 38 receptions for 471 yards. If he plays a full season, Daniels catches 53 passes for 686 yards, which are solid numbers a year removed from major knee surgery. For his career, Daniels has two seasons with 760-plus yards and another year with 70 receptions. He is the top pass-catching tight end for the Texans and one of the best in the league. Daniels runs good routes and has solid hands, making him a nice possession receiver. He gets a lot of chances in the offense and is the second option in the passing game behind Andre Johnson.
Fantasy Outlook:
Daniels is an injury risk (played a full season two times in five years), but his upside is very high. He can finish among the league leaders at tight end in every category. The only knock on Daniels is a lack of scores (career high in touchdowns is five). If his scores were higher, you could make a case for him to be the first tight end taken. But until he starts scoring, consider him a top-five tight end. He can get 70 receptions for 800 yards and five touchdowns in this offense. | | #70 | Mike Tolbert (RB) | TDs: 11 Yds: 735 | San Diego | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Tolbert finally got some extended looks in the Chargers running game and proved his worth. He found his way into the starting lineup because of injury and made plays for the Chargers rushing attack. Tolbert had three 100-yard games and scored 11 touchdowns. Tolbert had double-digit carries nine games. He did average just four yards per carry, but his running style won't lead to a ton of big plays. Tolbert finished the season with just fewer than 1,000 total yards. He should see a reduced role in the Chargers offense this season, but could get more work if Ryan Mathews shows any signs of struggle. Either way, Tolbert will be a part of the offense. Tolbert has very good size, but has some burst and does well at hitting the hole in a hurry. He isn't going to run away from a ton of defenders, but can do well in spurts. Tolbert also displayed good hands last season, catching 25 passes.
Fantasy Outlook:
Tolbert won't repeat last season, barring injury, but he still isn't a bad reserve back for fantasy teams. He could get the goal-line work because of his running style, which could net him a lot of scores once again. His yardage numbers should be down, though, getting around 600 or 700 total yards. Mathews is the future in San Diego. | | #71 | James Starks (RB) | TDs: 0 Yds: 101 | Green Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Starks did next to nothing during the regular season, but made his mark with the Packers during their Super Bowl run. Starks emerged as the lead back in the Packers offense during the playoffs. Starks had 29 carries during the regular season, but 20-plus carries three of the four playoff games. Starks finished the playoffs with 315-rushing yards and a touchdown. The Packers are high on Starks heading into this season. He has Ryan Grant to compete with for carries, but Starks likely bring more upside to the table at this point, which bodes well for Starks' playing time. Starks hits the hole in a hurry and has a tendency to make big plays. He also can run with some power because of his size. He isn't a finesse runner. Starks still needs to work on making the right read at running back, but is making progress and should get better at this with more seasoning.
Fantasy Outlook:
Starks has some upside, but is a bit of a wild card since he will compete for playing time and plays in a pass-first offense. Even with that said, he is worth a flier as a low-end No. 2 or No. 3 fantasy back. He could top 1,000 total yards and near double-digit scores if everything falls into play for Starks. | | #72 | Marcedes Lewis (TE) | TDs: 10 Yds: 700 | Jacksonville | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Lewis had a career season, setting career highs in receptions, yards and touchdowns. He was the top threat in the Jags' passing game. Lewis had just seven touchdowns heading into the season but managed to score 10. He was a big-time red-zone threat. Lewis didn't have many big yardage games, but he was consistent, getting at least two receptions in every game last season. He also had three two-touchdown games. Lewis had 700 yards after having a previous career high of 518. His yardage numbers have increased every season in the league. At 27 years old, Lewis is in the prime of his career. Lewis is a big target with speed and athleticism. He is an ideal fit for the red zone because of his size and leaping ability. He should continue to start for the Jags the next several seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Lewis emerged into a legit No. 1 fantasy tight end last season. It wouldn't surprise to see his numbers dip some, but expect them to remain low-end No. 1 tight end numbers. He can get 650 yards and near double-digit scores. Lewis is a guy that can help fantasy teams but be had later in your draft. | | #73 | BenJarvus Green-Ellis (RB) | TDs: 13 Yds: 1008 | New England | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Green-Ellis emerged as the primary back for carries the Patriots last season and had a breakout season with his added work. Green-Ellis had double-digit carries in all but three games. He had his first 1,000-yard season as a pro and scored double-digit touchdowns (13). Green-Ellis had just two 100-yard games but nine games with 70-plus yards. He was a consistent presence in the Patriots offense. Green-Ellis has some backs to compete with for carries in the Patriots offense, but should once again get his chances in 2011.
Green-Ellis isn't a speed burner, but a solid inside runner and tough to bring down once he gets going. He does a good job of hitting the hole with a head of steam. Despite playing in a pass-first system, Green-Ellis isn't much of a factor in the passing game. He had 12 receptions last season and 17 in three years in the league.
Fantasy Outlook:
Green-Ellis might never have another season like last year. Don't count on a repeat. He is a good bust candidate for this coming year. Green-Ellis has touchdown potential in a very good offense, but his yardage numbers should be done from last season. Take him as a No. 3 or 4 back and hope for the best. He has a few more concerns than some of the dependable fantasy starters. | | #74 | Reggie Bush (RB) | TDs: 0 Yds: 150 | Miami | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
A broken leg limited Bush to eight games last season. And in those eight games, Bush wasn't too effective. He had just 358 total yards, averaging 45 total yards per game. Those numbers were down for Bush. He was still a big part of the passing game, catching 34 passes. He has averaged 59 receptions per season for his career. Bush is yet to top 600 yards as a runner, though. He is getting fewer and fewer chances in the running game, which is looking like a trend going forward. A move to Miami could change his rush attempts but don't expect a huge bump in carries. He'll continue to get his touches, but more so in the passing game. Bush is an explosive back with lightning quick moves and speed, but has lacked consistency throughout his career. He will make plays in the open field, though. Bush is injury prone, playing a full season just once his entire career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bush is still a good pick in PPR leagues, getting 40 or so catches. But he isn't a huge factor outside of those leagues. He is more of a No. 3 back or flex option. He might get around 700 total yards and five or so scores in his current role. Don't draft him based on ability. His past history doesn't suggest he is suddenly going to start carrying fantasy teams. | | #75 | Joseph Addai (RB) | TDs: 4 Yds: 495 | Indianapolis | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Addai missed a big chunk of time last season because of a neck injury. He played just eight games, the lowest total of his career. He did have a 100-yard game and averaged 4.3 yards per carry, which was the second highest total of his career. Injury is starting to become a concern for Addai. He hasn't played a full season since his rookie year and missed 13 games the last three years. Addai has two 1,000-yard seasons in his career, but those came his first two years in the league. He has rushed for fewer than 830 yards each of the last three years. He knows the Colts offense, though, and has been the starter much of his career. The starter's job is likely his to lose this season, but he'll compete with others for carries. Addai has lost a little speed, but still has decent speed and some big-play ability. He runs with some power and does a good job as a receiver, which is a must in the Colts offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Addai isn't near the fantasy back of past seasons, but still has potential in a great Colts offense. He can post some big numbers on occasion. Taking him as anything more than a No. 3 back is a mistake, though. He has some touchdown potential, but his yardage numbers will be mediocre. His rushing totals are going the wrong way. A season with 800 total yards and eight touchdowns seems about right for Addai. | | #76 | Josh Freeman (QB) | TDs: 25 Yds: 3451 | Tampa Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Freeman took his game to a new level last season, his second in the league. He played like a veteran, limiting turnovers while making big plays. Freeman had 25 touchdowns to just six interceptions. He threw for nearly 3,500 yards and ran for 364 more yards. Freeman was the complete package for the Bucs. He should only get better with the Bucs emerging as a big-time threat offensively. Tampa has some exciting, young playmakers for Freeman to work with. Freeman has a ton of talent. He has a great arm, can make plays with his feet and has the size and strength of Ben Roethlisberger. He can be a tad erratic at times, but improved on that area of his game a lot last season. Freeman has the makings of a premier NFL quarterback.
Fantasy Outlook:
Freeman is the real deal. He is a legit No. 1 for fantasy teams this season. A season with 4,000-passing yards and around 30 touchdowns is realistic. Don't overlook his rushing totals, which can be a huge plus for fantasy teams. He ran for nearly 400 yards last season but didn't score a rushing touchdown. Expect Freeman to get a few rushing touchdowns in 2011, helping his fantasy stature even more. | | #77 | Tony Gonzalez (TE) | TDs: 6 Yds: 656 | Atlanta | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Gonzalez just keeps chugging along. His stats did take a decent dip last season but he was still a productive tight end in a good Falcons' offense. He caught 70 passes, giving him eight straight seasons with at least 70 receptions. His yardage total (658) was the lowest total since 1998, though. Gonzalez averaged less than 10 yards per reception for the first time in her career. So Gonzalez has lost a little, but not a much for a 35-year old tight end. Gonzalez is a great athlete and an extremely tough cover at tight end. He makes the tough catch in traffic because of his size, but can also outrun defenders because of his speed. He also knows his limitations at this point and plays to his strengths.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gonzalez was just an average No. 1 fantasy tight end for the first time in his career last season. He can still help fantasy teams but his best days are behind him. He is a low-end No. 1 tight end. He'll still get between 60 and 70 receptions but his yard won't be off the charts. He also isn't a huge red-zone threat with the Falcons, catching 12 touchdown passes in two seasons. | | #78 | Julio Jones (WR) | | Atlanta | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
The Falcons traded away a lot to get the chance to nab Jones. Atlanta hopes Jones fills a need at receiver, providing a big-time threat opposite Roddy White. Jones will move into the starting lineup right away for the Falcons. He is a big-time threat at receiver. Jones is a big target with size and strength. He is a physical receiver that runs solid routes and plus hands. Jones doesn't have top speed, but probably runs faster on a football field than his 40 time. He'll lose targets to White and a host of options in the Falcons' offense, but should get his fair share of work his rookie season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jones isn't a top fantasy threat just yet, but will post some big games. And you have to like his red-zone potential in a good offense. He could score seven or so touchdowns in this offense. Expect him to get around 800 or 900 yards, though. White still dominates targets in this offense at receiver. | | #79 | Hakeem Nicks (WR) | TDs: 11 Yds: 1052 | New York Giants | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Nicks took a huge step forward last season, emerging as one of the top receivers in the game. He even missed some time because of Compartment Syndrome in his lower right leg (shouldn't be an issue going forward). Even with missing three games, Nicks had his first 1,000-yard season as a pro and scored 11 touchdowns. He had four 100-yard games and 79 receptions. Nicks was the top target in the Giants' passing attack, a role he should continue serving for years to come. Nicks has the makeup of an elite receiver. He is a big target with great hands and athletic ability. Nicks is a top big-play threat because of his speed and size.
Fantasy Outlook:
Nicks is the complete package. Consider him an elite fantasy receiver. Another 1,000-yard season and double-digit scores is very likely. His numbers are only going to improve, especially if he can stay healthy. Nicks is worth taking among the first 10 fantasy receivers in 2011. | | #80 | Kellen Winslow (TE) | TDs: 5 Yds: 730 | Tampa Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Winslow saw his stats dip a little his second season in Tampa, but he still produced solid numbers. He had at least 66 receptions for the fourth time in five seasons. He had five games with 50-plus yards and at least two receptions in all but one game. His reception and yardage totals were the lowest since playing a full season in the NFL, though. Winslow had a little more to compete with for targets with some youngsters emerging in the Bucs' offense. In his four full seasons, Winslow averages 79 receptions for 899 yards and five touchdowns. Winslow has a history of knee issues, which is a concern, but for now, he seems pretty healthy. Winslow has good speed and can run routes like a receiver. And his size makes him tough to bring down in the open field. He is one of the top tight ends in the game.
Fantasy Outlook:
Winslow isn't an elite tight end, but he'll get you good reception and yardage totals. Those numbers will be among the top 10 onf all fantasy tight ends. Unfortunately, Winslow doesn't score much (five touchdowns is his career high), which really puts a damper on his value. Consider him a low-end No. 1 tight end for the coming season. | | #81 | Lance Kendricks (TE) | | St Louis | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
The Rams wanted to add playmakers offensively for Sam Bradford, so they used a second-round pick on Kendricks. He is a big-time athlete at tight end. Kendricks should be used down the middle to stretch the field for the Rams. He has plus speed for the position and pretty good hands. He also is a willing blocker that should get better with more seasoning. The Rams are likely to use a lot more two-tight end sets this season, giving Kendricks plenty of playing time his rookie season. He has a chance to be the No. 1 tight end for the Rams.
Fantasy Outlook:
Kendricks is worth a late-round flier. He is capable of being the top rookie tight end this season. The Rams might go with a similar offense to the Patriots last season, giving the tight ends a lot of targets. It wouldn't surprise to see Kendricks finish with similar numbers to Aaron Hernandez, getting around 600 yards and six touchdowns. He has some value as a No. 2 fantasy tight end. | | #82 | Zach Miller (TE) | TDs: 5 Yds: 685 | Seattle | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Miller missed a game and had fewer than 10 yards in four others, but had another productive season as the starting tight end in Oakland. Miller finished with 60 receptions, giving him at least 60 catches two straight seasons. He had a 100-yard game and eight games with four-plus receptions. His yardage totals were down some, though, having 685 yards. Miller had more than 770 yards each of the previous two seasons. Miller did score a career-high five touchdowns last season. He had just seven touchdowns going into the season. Miller heads to Seattle this season, a team he'll start for at tight end but could get a few less looks in an offense that doesn't utilize the tight end a whole lot. Miller is a gifted athlete with plus hands. He also has good speed for the position and blocks pretty well.
Fantasy Outlook:
He still lacks touchdown potential, which keeps him from being an elite option at tight end. Miller is a low-end No. 1, though, despite the lack of scores. He is a pretty good bet to get 60-plus receptions for 650 or so yards. If the Seahawks' passing game suddenly took a big step forward, which isn't likely, Miller could take his game to a new level. | | #83 | Brandon Pettigrew (TE) | TDs: 4 Yds: 722 | Detroit | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Pettigrew had a breakout season his second in the league, catching a career-high 71 passes for 722 yards. He was a huge part of the Lions' offense from day one last season. Pettigrew had at least four receptions in 10 of 16 games. He even had a 100-yard game, showing his big-game potential at the tight end position. Pettigrew wasn't a huge factor in the red zone, though, scoring four touchdowns. The Lions offense is emerging with some promising young talent, and Pettigrew is the second target in the passing game at the moment. He is the complete package at tight end. Pettigrew is a huge tight end with plus hands and top athleticism. His size makes him a tough cover for the opposition. He also is a willing blocker, which helps the Lions rushing attack. He'll be the No. 1 tight end in the Lions offense for the next several years.
Fantasy Outlook:
Pettigrew proved his worth last season and can improve on that if Matthew Stafford is able to stay healthy and he gets a few more looks in the red zone. Pettigrew is a solid No. 1 for fantasy teams. He can get 800 yards and eight touchdowns in this offense, an offense that utilizes the tight end often. | | #84 | Santana Moss (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1115 | Washington | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Moss enjoyed one of his best seasons to date. He got a lot of work in the Redskins' new offense, led by new head coach Mike Shanahan. He topped 1,000 yards for the fourth time in his career but had a career-high 93 receptions. It was the first time Moss topped 90 catches in his 10-year career. Moss had at least five receptions in 13 games, getting a ton of weekly chances as the top target for the Redskins. Moss has played more consistent the last few seasons, getting 70 or more catches three straight seasons. He also has topped 1,000 yards two of the last three. He turns 32 during the summer, but doesn't seem to be exhibiting many signs of slowing down just yet. Moss is a big-play receiver. He has top speed and can stretch the field in a hurry. He also has improved his shorter routes and is a more dependable option underneath.
Fantasy Outlook:
Moss can be inconsistent, but shed that label a little last season. His touchdown totals have never been impressive, but Moss can help fantasy teams with his reception and yardage totals. It would be a surprise if he tops 90 receptions, but he can get 80 for near 1,000 yards and six touchdowns. Consider him a low-end No. 2 receiver or solid No. 3. | | #85 | A.J. Green (WR) | | Cincinnati | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Green was arguably the most talented player in this year's draft. He is the complete package at receiver. He is a playmaker ready to produce right away at the next level. Green has size, speed and runs routes well for such a young player. Green might need to get a little stronger and could improve some as a blocker, but those are really two very small negatives on him. Green will be the No. 1 receiver in the Bengals' offense for years to come.
Fantasy Outlook:
Green is an exciting fantasy player, but the quarterback situation in Cincinnati is a concern. If a better option was playing quarterback, Green's value would be much higher. Instead, he is really a decent No. 2 fantasy receiver. He could get 900 yards and six or seven touchdowns. His upside is huge, though, for the coming seasons. | | #86 | Joe Flacco (QB) | TDs: 25 Yds: 3622 | Baltimore | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Flacco had a rough start to 2010. He had five interceptions to a touchdown, but put that behind him in a hurry. Flacco had 25 total touchdowns to five interceptions the rest of the way. Flacco set career highs in yards, touchdowns and had the fewest interception totals of his career. He took his game to a new level last season, mainly because of some new additions at receiver for him in the passing game. It helps to have a guy like Anquan Boldin on your side. Flacco has two straight seasons with 3,600-plus passing yards and 47 total touchdowns during that stretch. He completes an impressive 62 percent of his passes for his career.
Flacco has a big arm and very good accuracy. And he continues to get better and better as an NFL quarterback. Remember, he is in just his fourth season and is 26 years old. The Ravens have more of a run-first offense, but are more diverse these days and continue to give Flacco chances to make plays during the course of a game.
Fantasy Outlook:
Flacco has become a solid No. 1 fantasy quarterback. He isn't quite in the elite category but just outside those top guys. Consider him a low-end No. 1. Don't be surprised to see Flacco have his first 4,000-yard season this year. He also should be good for 28 or so scores. His fantasy stock continues to get better and better. | | #87 | Jermaine Gresham (TE) | TDs: 4 Yds: 471 | Cincinnati | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Gresham had a productive first season in the league. His numbers weren't off the charts, especially his yardage totals (471), but Gresham got consistent targets in the offense. He caught an impressive 52 passes. He had at least two receptions in 13 of 15 games. Gresham should continue to be a big part of the offense for years to come. He gives the Bengals a legit tight end for the first time in several years. Gresham doesn't have great speed at tight end, but is a top athlete that runs good routes. Gresham is a huge target at receiver and his immense size makes him a top red-zone target. Gresham still needs to work on his blocking, but has made some strides in that area.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gresham is inching close to being a solid No. 1 for fantasy teams. Expect his numbers to increase across the board. He can get 65 receptions for 600 yards and seven or so touchdowns in this offense. Gresham is the real deal and should be a fantasy factor for years to come. | | #88 | Dallas Clark (TE) | TDs: 3 Yds: 347 | Indianapolis | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Clark was on his way to another huge season, but played just five games because of a wrist injury. He required surgery on the wrist, which was an unusual injury that will take some time to rehab. But Clark should be ready for the start of the '11 season. Clark was his usual spectacular self before getting hurt. He had a double-digit reception game and touchdowns three of six games. Clark has double-digit scores two of the last four seasons and a 1,000-yard season in 2009. Clark is 32 years old and has a bit of an injury history, but remains the No. 1 tight end in the explosive Colts' offense. Clark is a fast, athletic tight end and a good route runner. He is a favorite target of Peyton Manning and knows the offense as well as any player on the roster. Clark has a knack for making big plays, especially in the red zone.
Fantasy Outlook:
Clark has the most potential as any fantasy tight end, which is why we are ranking him first. He might be the only elite option that can top 100 receptions, 1,000 yards and double-digit scores. You won't find a more consistent tight end in the game. His wrist injury is a concern, giving his injury history, but it is tough to ignore his potential when playing. | | #89 | Jared Cook (TE) | TDs: 1 Yds: 361 | Tennessee | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Cook found his way in the starting lineup late in the season and showed his potential as a starter for the Titans. He had at least four receptions four of the last six games. He also had 40 or more yards five of those games. Cook has a good chance to be the starter for the Titans from day one this season. He has a lot of potential because of his athleticism. Cook has plus speed and decent hands. He isn't going to help much as a blocker, but catches passes and runs routes like a receiver. He'll need to make strides as a blocker if hopes to maximize his playing time and start for the Titans.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Titans use the tight end often, so Cook has a chance to help fantasy teams this season in an expanded role. It wouldn't surprise to see him get 60 or so receptions for 650 yards and six touchdowns, making him a solid No. 2 or low-end No. 1 for fantasy teams. He is a fine sleeper to target late in your draft. He has the upside to breakthrough this season. | | #90 | Pierre Thomas (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 269 | New Orleans | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Thomas made plays when healthy last season, but he was healthy for just six games. He had 470 total yards and two scores in those six games. Thomas suffered an ankle injury that eventually required surgery this offseason. It was a pretty extensive scope on the ankle, which is a concern going forward. He has a long rehab ahead, but should be healthy enough for training camp. Thomas has produced when on the field for the Saints, averaging 825 total yards the last three seasons. Thomas has shown a tendency to get injured, though, causing some durability concerns. Thomas isn't a huge back, but has good speed and moves. Thomas also can run with a little power and is a more than capable receiver (99 receptions the last three seasons).
Fantasy Outlook:
Durability continues to be a concern, but Thomas can produce when healthy. He is worth a mid- to late-round grab as a No. 3 back for fantasy teams. Thomas can get 1,000 total yards and six or seven scores. | | #91 | Cedric Benson (RB) | TDs: 7 Yds: 1111 | Cincinnati | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Benson finished with similar numbers to his breakout '09 season, but his overall production wasn't quite as expected considering he got more chances. Benson had 20 more carries than the previous season but 140 fewer rushing yards. He averaged just 3.5 yards per carry. But to be fair, his offensive line didn't do a great job for him. Benson still topped 1,000 yards, though, which gives him two straight seasons topping that mark. He also had a career-high eight touchdowns last season. The Bengals should have a renewed focus on the run this season, which is good for Benson. New offensive coordinator Jay Gruden will make the running game the primary focus of the offense. Benson is 28 years old and has been a lead back just a few seasons, so he has plenty of life left on his legs. He doesn't have great speed, but runs with power and has good moves for his size. Benson can also make some plays in the passing game, catching 17 or more passes four straight seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Benson isn't an elite back by any means but a more than serviceable No. 2 back. He'll get consistent yardage numbers on a weekly basis. The touchdown totals aren't there, though, which hurts his value. He could finish with career best numbers this season, but even with that said, those numbers likely won't be off the charts. If all goes well, he could get around 1,500 total yards and double-digit scores. | | #92 | Steve Smith (WR) | TDs: 2 Yds: 554 | Carolina | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Smith had a dreadful year as the Panthers' passing game suffered big time because of poor quarterback play. Despite playing all but two games, Smith failed to top 50 receptions and 600 yards for the first time when playing a full season since his rookie year. He just didn't get the chances or was misfired upon when getting the chances. Smith hasn't lost much but probably has lost a step at age 32, which doesn't help matters. He remains a dependable starter with big-play ability. Smith has five 1,000-yard seasons under his belt. Smith is a small target, but has great hands and surprising strength. He just makes plays with the ball in his hands.
Fantasy Outlook:
Smith can rebound and is worth a flier as a low-end No. 2 or 3 receiver because of his past success. It wouldn't surprise to see him get back to his usual ways, topping 1,000 yards while getting seven or so scores. But don't be surprised if he finishes with numbers similar to last season, which could be the start of a trend instead of something unusual. | | #93 | Jay Cutler (QB) | TDs: 23 Yds: 3274 | Chicago | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Cutler had some struggles last season, his first in the Bears new Mike Martz offense, but played at a high level much of the season. He cut down on interceptions last season and seemed to have a good grasp of the offense as the season wore on. Cutler didn't throw for a ton of yards (lowest total of his career), but had 24 total touchdowns to 16 interceptions. His interception total was the second lowest of his career as a starter. Cutler still seems to make some really poor decisions, but is getting better. He has a huge arm and does a great job of making plays downfield. He can make all the throws. Cutler also is an unheralded runner. He ran for a career-high 232 yards last season and has 200-plus rushing yards three of the last four years.
Fantasy Outlook:
Cutler is too up and down to be a dependable No. 1 for fantasy teams, but is getting closer to being a legit No. 1. He throws for a lot of yards, gets some rushing yards and his touchdown totals are high. He can inch closer to 30 touchdowns this season, but don't expect his yardage totals to be off the charts. Consider him a low-end No. 1. | | #94 | Jonathan Stewart (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 770 | Carolina | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Stewart got off to a terrible start last season and missed some time with a concussion after his poor start, but finished the season very well. Stewart had fewer than 50-rushing yards the first eight games of the season. He got a chance to start because of injury down the stretch and took advantage, rushing for 90-plus yards four of the last six games. He had 562-rushing yards in those last six games. Stewart's rushing totals (770) were the lowest of his career, and it was the first time as a pro Stewart didn't have double-digit touchdowns. The Panthers had a terrible offense last season, though, which contributed to the down season for Stewart. At just 24 years old, Stewart is in the prime of his career, but the Panthers brought back DeAngelo Williams, who should continue to serve as starter. Stewart will continue to play his backup role for the Panthers, getting a little more work then your typical backup in a run-heavy offense. Stewart is a big back, but has plus speed and the ability to break a big play at any time. He doesn't do much in the passing game, catching 34 passes in three seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Stewart's value took a big hit once Williams came back. He is a decent No. 3 back for fantasy teams in his current role. Stewart has a knack for finding the end zone, which helps his value. He can get 900 or so total yards and eight touchdowns for the Panthers. | | #95 | New York Jets (Def) | | New York Jets | Bye: 8 | | | | | #96 | Mike Thomas (WR) | TDs: 4 Yds: 820 | Jacksonville | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Thomas became the top receiving option in the Jags' passing game last season. He was a consistent option, catching a career-high 66 passes for 820 yards and four touchdowns. Thomas had a 100-yard game and four games with 80-plus receiving yards. He did have some down games and wasn't much of a red-zone threat, though. Even with that said, Thomas is the No. 1 receiver for the Jags. He is in his third season in the league, so he has room to grow. Thomas doesn't have much size, but is quick with plus hands. Thomas runs good routes and has a knack for getting open. His lack of size makes him a below-average red-zone target.
Fantasy Outlook:
Thomas has upside to improve on last season. He could get 1,000 yards and six or so touchdowns. Thomas is a fantasy player on the upswing, making him an intriguing pick come draft day. He could be a solid No. 2 for fantasy teams. | | #97 | Ryan Grant (RB) | TDs: 0 Yds: 45 | Green Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Grant suffered an ankle injury the first game of the season and didn't play the rest of the year. He needed surgery to repair some of the ligaments in his ankle, but was near full strength shortly after the Packers Super Bowl win. He should be ready to go for this coming year. Before last season, Grant had two straight seasons of 1,200-rushing yards. He also scored double-digit touchdowns for the first time in his career in 2009. Grant isn't an explosive back, but runs with power and has enough speed to bounce some plays to the outside. Grant isn't a huge threat as a receiver, but does average 24 receptions per season during his first three years in the league.
Fantasy Outlook:
Grant has some question marks heading into 2011. How much work will he get? Is he healthy? Grant is going to be a boom or bust pick for fantasy teams. He has potential based on his track record, but nothing is certain with him at this point. Take a chance on him as a No. 3 or 4 back. He could exceed or fail to live up to that spot on your roster. | | #98 | Dustin Keller (TE) | TDs: 5 Yds: 687 | New York Jets | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Despite having more options to compete with at receiver for targets, Keller enjoyed his best season to date last year. He set career highs in receptions, yards and touchdowns. He finished with just fewer than 700 yards. Keller had four games with 75 or more yards and even enjoyed a 100-yard game. He scored his five touchdowns the first four games of the season. Keller failed to score the rest of the season. Keller has been a consistent No. 1 tight end for the Jets, averaging 49 receptions for 581 yards and three touchdowns per season since entering the league. Keller has plus speed for the tight end spot and very good hands. He has a good feel for finding the soft spot in the middle of the field. He is improving as a blocker, but still lacks some in that area. He is a favorite target of Mark Sanchez, which gets him plenty of weekly targets.
Fantasy Outlook:
Keller has become a low-end No. 1 tight end. He isn't among the top options but a decent starter after taking his game to a new level last season. His lack of scores remains a concern, but he can get 60 catches for 700 yards in this offense. Take him off the top guys are off the board but don't feel too bad about having him as your No. 1 tight end after you load up on other positions. | | #99 | Pierre Garcon (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 784 | Indianapolis | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Garcon didn't have quite the year as expected after finishing 2009 on a high note. His numbers weren't terrible but just alright. He had one 100-yard game and finished with 784 yards. He set career highs in receptions, yards and touchdowns, which isn't a surprise considering his amount of playing time. But what was concerning was his numbers were just slightly better than the previous season. Garcon struggled at times last season, dropping passes on occasion while not being on the same page as Peyton Manning all the time. He still has room to grow, though, as he is just 25 and last season was his first as a full-time starter. Garcon still isn't a polished route runner, but improving. He has great speed and is a top deep threat. Garcon also does a good job of making big plays on shorter routes, using his speed to get by defenders.
Fantasy Outlook:
Garcon has a shot at his first 1,000-yard season. Consider him a low-end No. 2 receiver this season for fantasy teams. He has great potential in a top passing game. Garcon was a little up and down last season, but his consistency should improve with more seasoning. He will get lost in the shuffle some weeks, though, so be prepared for a few down games. | | #100 | Benjamin Watson (TE) | TDs: 3 Yds: 763 | Cleveland | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
It isn't saying a whole lot, but Watson was the top target in the Browns' passing game last season. He had a career season, catching 68 passes for 763 yards. He bested his career reception high by 19. And he had never topped 700 yards before last season. Watson was a reliable target for the Browns, making a ton of weekly plays. He had at least three receptions in all but four games. A move to Cleveland seemed to be just the thing to jumpstart Watson's career after having fewer than 420 yards three straight seasons. Watson should continue to be a big part of the offense as the Browns still lack some top options at the receiver and their new West Coast offense should be a good fit for him. Watson is a big, fast target over the middle and a nice deep threat, considering his size. He isn't much of a blocker, but his pass-catching skills are what get him on the field.
Fantasy Outlook:
Watson seems unlikely to repeat last season but he could still have a solid season. He plays in an offense looking for playmakers and seemed to gain a nice rapport with quarterback Colt McCoy, which are two good things for him going forward. His lack of scores (three last season) is a downer, but his reception and yardage totals should be in the top 10 for fantasy tight ends. He should be able to get around 60 catches for 650 yards, making him a solid reserve or spot starter for fantasy teams. | | #101 | Greg Olsen (TE) | TDs: 5 Yds: 404 | Carolina | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
As expected, Olsen had a down season with Mike Martz calling plays in Chicago. He had a few big games, but was pretty mediocre much of the season. Olsen had 19 fewer catches and more than 200 less yards than his previous season. His numbers have been pretty similar through the years, though, averaging 49 receptions for 495 yards and five touchdowns. Olsen has two seasons with 50-plus receptions. Olsen heads to the Panthers this season, serving as their No. 1 tight end. He should get a few more targets in a different offense, an offense that will look at the tight end. Olsen is a good athlete at the tight end spot. He has top speed and very good hands, making him a surprising big-play option at tight end. He is just a so-so blocker, though, which causes him to miss out on some playing time at times.
Fantasy Outlook:
Olsen isn't a No. 1 tight end, but just outside that group. It wouldn't surprise to see his stats go up some this season, but not a whole lot. He could get 50 receptions for 500 yards and five touchdowns. Consider him a solid reserve and spot starter for fantasy teams. | | #102 | Ryan Fitzpatrick (QB) | TDs: 23 Yds: 3000 | Buffalo | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Fitzpatrick took over the starting job in Week 3 last season and never looked back. He had a breakout season, setting career highs in yards and touchdowns. He was a difference maker in the Bills offense. Fitzpatrick had his first 3,000-yard season, throwing for 250-plus yards five games. He was a consistent factor in the Bills offense, scoring touchdowns in all but one game he played. Fitzpatrick has been a starter some each of the last three seasons. He has 42 total touchdowns the last three seasons. He has a good chance to be the Bills starter from day one in 2011. Fitzpatrick picked up the Bills new Chan Gailey offense well, paying with confidence while making plays. Fitzpatrick doesn't have a great arm, but runs well for a quarterback and has a knack for making plays. He has 260-plus rushing yards two of the last three seasons. Fitzpatrick doesn't throw a great deep ball and will force some throws, but throws the ball with decent accuracy and does a good job of hitting his receivers in stride.
Fantasy Outlook:
Fitzpatrick was a worth fantasy player last season, giving him some upside for this coming year. It will be hard for him to top last season, but he has some potential as a No. 2 fantasy quarterback. He can throw for 3,000-plus yards with around 20 touchdowns in a Bills offense that should be a little better this season. | | #103 | Brent Celek (TE) | TDs: 4 Yds: 511 | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Celek saw a big dip in production after having a breakout '09 season. His overall numbers were about half of what he did the previous season. Celek still had some productive games, though, finishing with 42 receptions for 511 yards and four touchdowns. He just didn't get the chances, having 112 targets in 2009 compared to 80 last season. Michael Vick didn't look his way quite as often. But in fairness to Vick, Celek has a lot to compete with for targets in a very good Eagles' offense. Celek remains the top pass-catching tight end for the Eagles. Celek isn't flashy, but runs good routes and has reliable hands. He has big-play ability at tight end. Celek also is a solid blocker, making him an even bigger asset for the Eagles offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Celek will fall in drafts this season and with good reason. He remains a low-end No. 1 but not an elite option with three players likely getting more targets than him for the Eagles. He'll have some big games and likely improve on last season but don't expect another 2009. He could get 60 receptions for 650 yards and seven or so touchdowns. | | #104 | Braylon Edwards (WR) | TDs: 7 Yds: 904 | --- | Bye: | | | Player News:
Edwards had a better second season with the Jets. He neared the 1,000-yard mark (904) and scored seven touchdowns - both totals were the second highest of his career. He averaged a career-high 17.1 yards per receptions, displaying his big-play ability. Edwards did struggle with drops once again, especially at inopportune times, but he did make some big plays for the Jets throughout the year. Edwards had one 100-yard game last season. He is a talented receiver. Edwards is a big target with good speed and top playmaking ability, making him a top deep threat in the NFL. He lacks some consistency, though, showing a lack of concentration. He should be a starter in San Francisco this season but won't be handed anything.
Fantasy Outlook:
Edwards has just one 1,000-yard season, so don't overvalue him based on talent. He'll post the occasional big game, but will be too inconsistent to count on as anything more than a No. 3 fantasy receiver. He'll be lucky to top 1,000 yards and could score around six or seven touchdowns. | | #105 | Pittsburgh Steelers (Def) | | Pittsburgh | Bye: 11 | | | | | #106 | San Francisco 49ers (Def) | | San Francisco | Bye: 7 | | | | | #107 | Sidney Rice (WR) | TDs: 2 Yds: 280 | Seattle | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Rice had hip surgery before the start of the season. He missed much of the year but was able to return before the end of the year, playing six games. He was eased into action and eventually posted some good numbers. He had a 100-yard game and finished with 280 yards and a couple scores. Rice's hip is a concern going forward, but he proved to be pretty healthy at times last season. He didn't look too slowed by the injury, which is a decent sign for Rice. He had a breakout season before the injury, proving he can be an elite receiver in the NFL. Rice is a big receiver with great athletic ability and above-average speed. He also has good hands and isn't afraid to make the tough catch. He is a top big-play threat at receiver and becomes the immediate No. 1 for the Seahawks.
Fantasy Outlook:
Rice has some things working against him (health, questionable quarterback play, so-so offense) but he certainly has upside because of his past success. He is a boom or bust pick for fantasy teams but taking a chance on him as a No. 2 receiver is a decent risk worth taking. He is capable of producing like a No. 1 if all goes well for him. For now, consider him a decent bet to get around 1,000 yards and six touchdowns. | | #108 | Austin Collie (WR) | TDs: 8 Yds: 649 | Indianapolis | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
A scary concussion caused Collie to miss a good chunk of time last season, but he still produced very good numbers when healthy. He scored eight touchdowns in just nine games. He had two 100-yard games and 58 receptions, averaging six receptions per game. Collie has very similar numbers his first two seasons in the league but he missed seven games his second season, showing his big-time potential in the Colts' offense. He is an ideal fit for the No. 3 receiver job in Indy. Collie isn't going to burn you deep, but runs solid routes and has plus hands. He does a good job of finding a soft spot in the secondary. Peyton Manning has confidence in Collie, which is another plus for him going forward.
Fantasy Outlook:
Collie proved a lot last season, showing he could be a big-time fantasy player. As long as his concussion issues aren't an issue going forward, he will be a big factor for fantasy teams. Collie can get 1,000 yards and double-digit scores in this offense. He has a lot to compete with for targets, but the Colts throw often. Collie might get lost in the shuffle some games, but he has enough potential and upside to be a legit No. 2 fantasy receiver. | | #109 | Davone Bess (WR) | TDs: 5 Yds: 820 | Miami | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Bess once again was a top target in the Dolphins' passing game, setting career highs in receptions, yards and touchdowns last season. He had at 76 receptions for the second straight season. Over the last two seasons, Bess averaged 78 receptions for 789 yards and four touchdowns. He has been the most reliable receiver in the Dolphins' offense. Bess should continue to start alongside Brandon Marshall. Bess also does a good job on punt returns, averaging nearly 10 yards per return for his career. Bess doesn't get much work in the red zone (eight touchdowns in three seasons), but he is a top possession receiver. He is less than six foot, but has good hands and runs pretty precise routes. He makes the most of his ability.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bess might not get much better than last season. A jump to 80 catches for around 850 yards and a six scores is possible, though. He gets a lot of targets in the Dolphins' passing game, especially with Marshall drawing so much attention in coverage. His lack of scores makes him a target more so in PPR leagues. He is a No. 4 or 5 receiver outside of those formats. | | #110 | Antonio Brown (WR) | TDs: 0 Yds: 167 | Pittsburgh | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Brown got more and more work his rookie season as the season progressed. He finished with just 16 receptions, but had at least two receptions each of the last five games. Brown even produced during the Steelers Super Bowl run. He had five receptions for 90 yards in the playoffs. Brown is working his way into the mix at receiver for the Steelers. He'll likely be a No. 3 or 4 this season. Brown has top speed and solid hands. He is good at making plays after the catch, showing explosiveness for the big play. He does lack a little strength, but can improve in that area during the offseason.
Fantasy Outlook:
Brown can improve on last season and pick up where he left off to end the season. Brown could get 40 receptions for 500 yards and a few scores. The Steelers will find ways to get him involved in the offense. His numbers will be very mediocre for fantasy teams but could help in a pinch at some point during the season. He has some big-game potential. | | #111 | Mike Sims-Walker (WR) | TDs: 7 Yds: 562 | --- | Bye: | | | Player News:
Sims-Walker had an erratic season. He had two 100-yard games and seven touchdowns, but also fewer than 40 yards nine games. Sims-Walker was far from consistent for the Jags. He has played pretty well the last few seasons but nothing off the charts, averaging 53 receptions for 716 yards and seven touchdowns. Consistency continues to plague Sims-Walker. He disappears too often in games. He has the tools to be a consistent producer, though. Sims-Walker isn't a speed burner but has above-average size and is a good athlete. He is young enough (26) to improve his craft but needs to have the light turned on this season. Moving to a new team could be just the thing to get Sims-Walker going, though. The Rams should have a pass-friendly system and Sims-Walker has a chance to emerge as the No. 1 receiver.
Fantasy Outlook:
Sims-Walker saw his career go the wrong way last season, failing to follow up a solid '09 campaign as expected. He can rebound from last season, especially with a new team, but don't expect his numbers to take a huge spike forward. He could get 900 yards and seven touchdowns, making him a No. 3 or 4 receiver for fantasy teams. His talent is intriguing but it just isn't translating to the field right now. | | #112 | Lance Moore (WR) | TDs: 8 Yds: 763 | New Orleans | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Moore was healthy last season, which led to a nice bounce-back season. He caught 66 passes for nearly 800 yards and scored eight touchdowns. All totals were the second highest totals of his career. If you take out an injury-plagued '09 season, Moore has averaged 73 receptions for 846 yards and nine touchdowns his last two full seasons. Moore is a consistent, dependable receiver in the Saints' pass-first offense. He had just one 100-yard game last season but at least three receptions in all but four games. Moore should continue to get work as the No. 3 or 4 receiver for the Saints. Moore isn't a big receiver, but is very fast and has good hands. He makes plays with the ball in his hands.
Fantasy Outlook:
Moore is a solid No. 3 or 4 receiver for fantasy teams. He'll finish with good reception and touchdown totals for the receiver position. He is overlooked at times but a consistent fantasy option in a good offense. Moore should get you 60 receptions for 750 yards and seven touchdowns. | | #113 | Chicago Bears (Def) | | Chicago | Bye: 8 | | | | | #114 | Mark Sanchez (QB) | TDs: 17 Yds: 3291 | New York Jets | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Sanchez made strides his second season in the league, but still had some poor showings along the way. He wasn't as consistent as the Jets hoped. Sanchez had four games with three or more touchdowns, but also six games without a score. The good news is he finished with more touchdowns (20) than interceptions (13) for the first time in his career and had his first 3,000-yard season. Sanchez struggles with consistency, but has shown the flare for coming up big in crunch time and making the big play in the passing game. His accuracy needs to get better, though, if he hopes to take his game to a new level. For his career, Sanchez completes just 54 percent of his passes. He has a good but not great arm. Sanchez does a good job of moving around the pocket, avoiding the rush and making plays. He remains the franchise quarterback in New York and should continue to get better and better. The Jets are a run-first team, but aren't afraid to air it out if needed. Sanchez had 507 pass attempts last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Sanchez is intriguing because he has big-game potential. The problem is he is erratic, making him a risky fantasy proposition. But don't be surprised to see all his totals get even better this season. He can throw for 3,500 yards and score 25 total touchdowns, making him a top No. 2 for fantasy teams. | | #115 | C.J. Spiller (RB) | TDs: 0 Yds: 283 | Buffalo | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Spiller had a rookie season to forget. He failed to rush for more than 40 yards in any game and finished with just 440 total yards. He lost out on playing time to Fred Jackson, who emerged as the starter and go-to back in the Bills offense. Spiller failed to display the big-play ability he showed in college. He just looked a step slow compared to his past work. The ability for Spiller is there, though. He can be a dynamic player because of his speed and big-play ability. Spiller does lack the ideal bulk for an every-down back, which could make him more of a third-down or change-of-pace back for the Bills. The Bills will find ways to get the ball his hands this season. They aren't giving up on him just yet.
Fantasy Outlook:
Spiller isn't a bust just yet, but last season was a big concern. He still has good total yardage ability but he probably won't live up to his draft spot. Spiller might get around 900 total yards and a few scores, making him worth a look as a low-end No. 3 or No. 4 back for fantasy teams. He can still get it going, making him a good upside pick late in the draft. | | #116 | Hines Ward (WR) | TDs: 5 Yds: 755 | Pittsburgh | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Ward finally slowed some last season, catching 55 passes, his lowest total since 2000. He also failed to top 1,000 yards after back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. Ward is 35 years old, though, and has missed just a handful of games his entire career, so a decline isn't a surprise at this stage of the game. But Ward can still post the big game. He had four 100-yard games last season and scored touchdowns two of the three playoff games for the Steelers. Ward is more of a possession receiver at this stage of his career, but still has some big-play ability. Ward has great hands and runs very good routes. He'll continue to start in a Steelers offense that isn't afraid to air it out.
Fantasy Outlook:
Ward is slowing down but remains a viable fantasy option. He isn't likely to top 1,000 yards again, but he can get you around 60 catches for 800 yards and five touchdowns. Ward is worth a reserve spot and some spot starts for your fantasy team. He isn't done just yet. | | #117 | Chris Cooley (TE) | TDs: 3 Yds: 849 | Washington | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Cooley had a big rebound season after an injury plagued '09 season. Cooley tied a career high in yards (849) and caught 77 passes, his second highest career total. Cooley was a reliable target in the Redskins' new offense, an offense that normally gets the tight end involved. Cooley has at least 77 receptions two of the last three years and 700-plus yards in all but two NFL seasons. He has been a consistent No. 1 tight end in the Redskins' offense. Cooley has never been a huge red-zone threat, though, failing to top double-digit scores at any point of his career. Cooley isn't a huge tight end, but he has pretty good size and runs well for his size. And he has plus hands, catching nearly everything thrown his way.
Fantasy Outlook:
Cooley isn't a prolific No. 1 fantasy tight end, but solid. His only knock are a lack of scores (six the last three seasons). But he'll get a ton of receptions (70-plus) and around 800-receiving yards. Cooley isn't flashy but certainly gets the job done for fantasy teams, producing solid weekly numbers. | | #118 | Anquan Boldin (WR) | TDs: 7 Yds: 837 | Baltimore | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Boldin got off to a great start his first season with the Ravens, having 100-yard games two of his first three as well as a three-touchdown game during that stretch. But he didn't do a whole lot after that. Boldin caught 64 passes, his lowest total since 2004, which was a season he played just 10 games. He is the top target for the Ravens, but not a big-play threat. Boldin is more of a possession receiver. He is a big, strong receiver. Boldin isn't a speed demon, but runs good routes and has solid hands. He remains a top possession receiver. Boldin had back-to-back 1,000-yard season before last year. He is just 30 years old, but has taken a lot of punishment through the years, which is a concern going forward. How much does he have left?
Fantasy Outlook:
Boldin won't get you many touchdowns, but he should improve on his reception totals from last season. He probably won't top 1,000 yards but could get 75 or so receptions and seven touchdowns, making him a low-end No. 2 or solid No. 3 fantasy receiver. He has more value in PPR leagues because of his high reception totals | | #119 | Kyle Rudolph (TE) | | Minnesota | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Rudolph was the top rated tight end in this year's draft. He isn't much of a blocker but a top pass catcher. He has plus speed, very good hands and the ability to make the tough catch. In terms of a pass catcher, Rudolph is ready to make an immediate impact in the NFL. He needs to work on his blocking if he hopes to become a full-time starter, though. For now, expect Rudolph and Visanthe Shiancoe to get a lot of work in two-tight end sets. The Vikings need playmakers in the passing game, so Rudolph will get plenty of chances his rookie season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Rudolph should be a solid spot starter for fantasy teams. He'll get plenty of targets in the offense. The Vikings will utilize his top pass-catching skills. A season with around 500 yards and four or so touchdowns seem about right for Rudolph. | | #120 | Delone Carter (RB) | | Indianapolis | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Carter could earn a big role in the Colts' offense his rookie season. The rushing game was a big disappointment for the Colts last season, so Carter has a chance to earn a lot of playing time if he impresses in training camp and preseason action. Carter is more of a power back. He has good size and does well between the tackles. He also doesn't have bad moves in the open field and can make people miss in space. Carter lacks some elite speed, though, which could hold him back some. He also isn't a great receiver, but does well in pass protection, which is a plus in the Colts' offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Carter is a wild card, but his upside makes him worth a late-round pick come draft day. He could really take off in this offense if given consistent work. At this point, it is anyone's guess who will get the majority of the carries for the Colts. Carter seems likely for a season around 500 yards and a few touchdowns. | | #121 | Malcom Floyd (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 717 | San Diego | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Floyd was the No. 1 receiver in the Chargers' offense much of last season with Vincent Jackson holding out. Floyd took advantage, posting big numbers while on the field. He was on his way to a career season, but a hamstring injury kept him out five games, hurting his overall numbers. Floyd still finished with 717 yards in 11 games, averaging 65 yards per game. Even more impressive was his 19.4 yards per reception, showing his big-play ability in the Chargers' passing game. He is a top big-play threat, using his size and speed to stretch the field. Floyd has back-to-back seasons with 700-plus receiving yards. Floyd is a huge target at 6-5 and a top deep threat in the Chargers pass-first offense. He should continue to start this coming season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Floyd has some competition for receptions, but he'll get consistent looks, playing in a pass-friendly system. He has 1,000-yard potential for the Chargers. Consider him a low-end No. 3 or No. 4for fantasy teams. As well as the yards, he can get eight or so touchdowns, a solid number for a receiver. | | #122 | Jerome Simpson (WR) | TDs: 3 Yds: 277 | Cincinnati | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Injuries late in the season gave Simpson a chance to play and he sure took advantage, notching 100-yard games each of the last two games of the year. He had 18 receptions for 247 yards and three touchdowns those last two games. Simpson had one reception for his career before this season. He played just five games last season, but projects to play a much bigger role from day one this year. He will battle for a starting spot with the Bengals. Cincinnati will be running a new offense this year, a more ball control offense that might not suit Simpson as well. Simpson is a deep threat with pretty good size and speed. He lacks some strength, but proved last season he is finally improving his route running.
Fantasy Outlook:
Simpson is a sleeper for this year after his strong finish to last season. He has some upside if given the chances. He has the talent to get a 1,000-yard season if he gets the targets, but getting those targets is no sure thing in the new offense. Take a chance on him as a No. 4 receiver and hope for the best. | | #123 | Torrey Smith (WR) | | Baltimore | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
The Ravens got younger at receiver with the addition of Smith. He'll be given a chance to start from day one his rookie season. Smith is a legit big-play threat at receiver because of his elite speed. He can get downfield in a hurry. Smith can get pushed off the line because he isn't too big or strong, which could hurt him some early in his career. But he'll get plenty of chances to make plays down the field and as a return man. Smith is a playmaker and should be a mainstay in the Ravens' offense for years to come.
Fantasy Outlook:
Smith has good potential his rookie season. He should start in a good offense and serve as the top big-play threat for the team. He could emerge as a low-end No. 2 or No. 3 receiver for fantasy teams. He can get 900 or so yards and six touchdowns for the Ravens. | | #124 | Heath Miller (TE) | TDs: 2 Yds: 512 | Pittsburgh | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Miller didn't have a huge season but was still productive, topping 500 yards for the fourth straight season. He caught 42 passes in 14 games, having at least two receptions in all but a game. In the last four seasons, Miller averages 53 receptions for 595 yards and five touchdowns. He had one huge season in 2009, but the rest of his seasons have been very similar. Miller is the top tight end in the Steelers offense. Despite his size (6-5), Miller is quick and runs good routes, making him a tough cover. Plus, he is tough to bring down once he gets the ball. The Steelers throw a little more often than past Steelers' teams, giving Miller more chances in the passing game. He averaged five targets per game last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Miller is a low-end No. 1 tight end. You pretty much know what to expect - a few big games, a few down games and a bunch of mediocre showings. He is good for 50 catches for 550 yards and five touchdowns. Miller isn't an exciting option at tight end but can get the job done if you want to wait on a starting tight end come draft day. | | #125 | Nate Burleson (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 625 | Detroit | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Burleson didn't see his career take off, his first with the Lions, but he played pretty well opposite Calvin Johnson in the starting lineup. He scored six touchdowns, including scores two of the last three games. Burleson had 55 receptions, giving him 50 or more receptions three of the last four seasons. He has just one 1,000-yard season for his career, but has topped 600 yards three of the last four years. Injuries have derailed Burleson some, but he has been pretty healthy the past few seasons. Burleson has the talent to be a solid starter and should get plenty of chances in an emerging Lions' offense. Burleson isn't a speed burner, but has decent hands and runs solid routes. Burleson should get a lot of favorable coverages with Calvin Johnson drawing most of the attention from the opponent's secondary.
Fantasy Outlook:
Burleson seems likely to top last season if he plays the whole season. He can get you 800 yards and seven or so touchdowns. Burleson is worth a flier as a No. 4 or 5 receiver, especially if you consider the Lions' offense is on the upswing. He has some real upside if this unit gets clicking, which is very possible. | | #126 | Danny Amendola (WR) | TDs: 3 Yds: 689 | St Louis | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Amendola had at least three receptions in all but two games last season, serving as the most dependable receiver in the Rams' passing game. He finished the season with 85 receptions, putting him among the league leaders. Amendola didn't do much with those catches, though, finishing with just 689 yards. He averaged just 8.1 yards per reception. Amendola might not get as many targets this season, but should continue to get plenty of chances in a new pass-friendly scheme while serving as their top possession receiver. Amendola also is a good special teams performer, serving as both the punt and kick returner for the Rams. Amendola lacks size, but has good quickness and great hands. He runs good routes and is tough as nails for a player of his size. Amendola just moves the chains for the Rams.
Fantasy Outlook:
Amendola is a very good selection in PPR leagues, but not much of an option outside of those. His yardage and touchdown totals won't be too impressive (just four touchdowns in two seasons). Amendola can get 70 receptions for around 600 yards and a couple scores for the Rams this season. | | #127 | Robert Meachem (WR) | TDs: 5 Yds: 638 | New Orleans | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Meachem was all over the place again last season, having four games with fewer than 10 yards and two 100-yard games. He got his chances in the Saints' offense, but didn't get consistent chances on a weekly basis. He was targeted just 66 times, so his 44 receptions were impressive. Meachem has similar numbers the past two seasons, averaging 45 receptions for 680 yards and seven touchdowns. Meachem is a big receiver with top speed and the ability to stretch the field in a hurry. He still doesn't have the best hands, though, and his route running isn't always crisp. He should continue to play a reserve role in the Saints pass-first offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Meachem is capable of the big game any week, which makes him an intriguing fantasy option. But his inconsistency obviously hurts his value. You just never know when his big games will come. Meachem should once again get 40 or so catches for around 650 yards and five touchdowns. Take him as a reserve and try to figure out when his big games will come. | | #128 | Mario Manningham (WR) | TDs: 9 Yds: 944 | New York Giants | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Manningham started the year slow, coming off the bench, but came on in a big way to end the season. He got some chances to start late in the year because of injury. He had 100-yard games three straight to end the season. Manningham finished with the best numbers of his career, getting just less than 1,000 yards (944). He also had career highs in receptions (60) and touchdowns (9). Manningham had three games without a catch but seven games with 75-plus yards. He was a tad inconsistent, but a solid threat in the Giants' passing game. Manningham is likely the No. 3 receiver for the Giants, but should get plenty of chances in the passing game even in that role. And his role could be bigger early in the season with the health of Steve Smith in question. Manningham is a decent sized receiver with plus speed and playmaking ability. He has struggled with drops in the past, but seems to be improving in that area.
Fantasy Outlook:
Manningham will have a hard time repeating last season, but can get 800 yards and six or so touchdowns in his role with the team. He is worth a look as a No. 4 or 5 fantasy receiver. And if injury hits in New York, Manningham sees his value go up even more, which is another good reason to take a flier on him late in your draft. | | #129 | New England Patriots (Def) | | New England | Bye: 7 | | | | | #130 | Greg Little (WR) | | Cleveland | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Little had to sit out last season after being ruled ineligible, but the Browns liked his talent enough to take him in the second round of this year's draft. Little is a big receiver that should be a good fit for the Browns' West Coast offense. He could challenge for a starting job right away. Little is a big receiver that can get downfield in a hurry. He'll make the tough catch in traffic and does a good job of making a big play out of a short reception. It could take him some time to get back into football shape, but he should be an impact in the Browns' offense for years to come.
Fantasy Outlook:
Little could see a lot of targets in the Browns' offense. They need playmakers and Little fits the bill for many of their needs. He is worth a late-round flier as reserve receiver for fantasy teams. He has some PPR potential in this offense. Little could get 700 yards and five or so scores his rookie season. | | #131 | Kevin Boss (TE) | TDs: 5 Yds: 531 | Oakland | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Boss didn't quite have a career season, but a similar season to his best to date. He had 500-plus yards for the second straight season and caught 35 passes, giving him at least 33 receptions three straight seasons. In the last three years, Boss averages 37 receptions for 494 yards and five touchdowns. His new team, the Raiders, uses the tight end a little more than his old team (Giants) but don't expect a huge spike in production. Boss will be the top tight end in the Raiders' offense. Boss also is a steady blocker, which gets him plenty of playing time. Boss is a good athlete that can make the tough catch in traffic. He also has pretty good speed and leaping ability, making him a good red-zone target.
Fantasy Outlook:
Boss has turned into a solid spot starter at tight end. He isn't an elite option, but can do well in spurts. He has potential, especially in the red zone. His numbers are very similar the last few seasons, so you can pretty much expect 35 receptions for about 500 yards and five touchdowns. You could do worse than Boss, but could also probably do better. | | #132 | Kevin Kolb (QB) | TDs: 7 Yds: 1197 | Arizona | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
With Donovan McNabb finally out of the way, Kolb got his chance to be the starter from day one in Philly. What happened? Kolb gets hurt the first game of the season, Michael Vick enters and sets the world a fire, and Kolb loses his starting job. Not exactly how Kolb saw it all playing out. Kolb did get some action throughout the season because of injury, but his play was erratic. Kolb had a three-touchdown performance and threw for 250-plus yards in two games. But he also had more interceptions than touchdowns two games and finished the season with 10 turnovers compared to seven touchdowns. Kolb was inconsistent, trying to do too much with his chances. Kolb still has time to get it going at age 27 (when he season starts). He was traded to the Cardinals before the start of camp, taking over as their starting quarterback. Kolb is an accurate passer with a strong arm. He can make the tough pass in traffic, but still needs work on the deep ball. He also forced the issue more than past seasons last year, which is a concern going forward. He needs to improve his decision making.
Fantasy Outlook:
Kolb finally gets his chance to start. The Cardinals don't have a high-flying offense but they do have Larry Fitzgerald, which is a plus. Kolb is worth a flier as a No. 2 or 3 quarterback, but don't overvalue him. Kolb has upside because of his big-game ability, but could be inconsistent in a starting role, especially with this being his first season as starter. | | #133 | Donovan McNabb (QB) | TDs: 14 Yds: 3377 | --- | Bye: | | | Player News:
McNabb had another rocky season. He was eventually benched for Rex Grossman late in the year, his first with the Redskins. McNabb wasn't terrible as the Redskins starter, but never won over the coaching staff. He had three 300-yard games and touchdowns in all but one of the games he played. McNabb did have more interceptions (15) than touchdowns (14) for the season, though, and had just two multi-touchdown games. His interception total was the highest of his career and it was the first time he had more interceptions than touchdowns for a season. The Redskins receivers didn't help McNabb a whole lot, though, as this unit was far from being among the best in the league. All the struggles in Washington shouldn't be put on McNabb. He still has something left in the tank, which is why the Vikings acquired him. He'll serve as starter until rookie Christian Ponder is ready. McNabb moves around the pocket well and does a good job of making plays on the run. He still has a plus arm, but will tend to struggle with accuracy at times and his decision making wasn't quite what it used to be last season. Health can be a concern for McNabb, who has a played a full season just once the last seven seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
His days of being an elite fantasy quarterback are about over. He can help in a reserve role, but can't be depended on to be an every-week starter. If he plays a full season, he'll get you around 3,000 yards and 20 touchdowns, which isn't too exciting for fantasy teams. | | #134 | Todd Heap (TE) | TDs: 5 Yds: 599 | Arizona | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Heap missed three games because of a hamstring injury, but still had his best numbers in several seasons. He finished with 599 yards, his highest total since 2006. Heap got a lot more chances in the passing game after having to block a little more the last few seasons for the Ravens. He has been a steady producer through the years as the top tight end in the Ravens' offense. Heap has 500-plus yards six of 10 seasons in the NFL. He has never topped 900 yards but has two seasons with 800-plus yards. Heap has been a big part of the offense for years but never been much of a red-zone threat, having 41 touchdowns in 10 seasons. His career high in touchdowns is seven. Heap is a solid all-around tight end, though. He is fast, athletic and a big target (6-5), but also a more than adequate blocker. Heap heads to the Cardinals this season, taking over as their No. 1 tight end.
Fantasy Outlook:
Heap was a much better option a few seasons back. He still has some potential for the big game, but is more of a fantasy reserve these days. He'll get around 50 catches for 600 yards and five touchdowns. Those aren't bad numbers by any means, but not those of a No. 1 tight end anymore. | | #135 | Kyle Orton (QB) | TDs: 20 Yds: 3652 | Kansas City | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Orton was on pace for a record-breaking season before fading down the stretch last season. He had 300-yard games four of five to start the season and had eight touchdowns to three interceptions during that stretch. His season cooled, though, as Orton went without a score his last two games and was intercepted three times in those games. He suffered a rib injury, which kept him out of the lineup for a game, but even when healthy enough to play, the Broncos stuck with Tim Tebow as starter. But even with missing the last three games, Orton threw for 3,653 yards and had 20 touchdowns to eight interceptions. In his last two seasons, Tebow averages 3,728-passing yards and 21 touchdowns. At age 28, Orton still has plenty of years left to start. He doesn't have a great arm, but gets rid of the ball quickly and does a good job of hitting his receivers in stride. Orton doesn't throw a great deep ball, but improved on that area last season, making big-play receiver Brandon Lloyd his top target in the passing game. Although Orton doesn't wow you with his ability, he seems to have a knack for making big plays.
Fantasy Outlook:
Orton flies under the radar, but the potential is there for good things in a starting role. He can carry a fantasy team on occasion. His numbers aren't elite but he'll get you 20 scores and around 3,500-passing yards, making him worth some spot starts | | #136 | Mike Williams (WR) | TDs: 2 Yds: 751 | Seattle | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
It took some time but Williams finally showed his potential last season, which was a huge surprise after not playing a down the previous two seasons. But Williams got a chance with the Seahawks and emerged as the No. 1 target for their passing game. An ankle injury knocked him out of a couple games, but Williams still managed to more than double nearly all his previous career bests. He had three games with double-digit receptions and three 100-yard games. He was a consistent option in the Seahawks' passing attack and should continue to be a mainstay in their offense the next several seasons after inking a contract extension shortly after the season. Williams doesn't have much speed or big-play ability, but can be a top-notch possession receiver. He uses his big frame well to create space and make plays. Williams isn't much of a red-zone option, though, which is a surprise considering his size (four touchdowns in five seasons).
Fantasy Outlook:
Williams can improve on his breakout season but shouldn't be considered more than a low-end No. 2 or top No. 3 fantasy receiver. His lack of scores is a concern, but he can get you a lot of receptions and yards. It wouldn't surprise to see Williams have his first 1,000-yard season in 2011. | | #137 | Daniel Thomas (RB) | | Miami | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Thomas is the odds on favorite to start in Miami this season. He is a rookie but his running style seems a good fit for the Dolphins' offense. Thomas is a big back that runs well between the tackles and does a great job of churning out the tough yards. He has decent moves in the open field, but doesn't have top speed at running back. He isn't much of a home-run threat. Thomas will help in the passing game but more so as a blocker than a receiver.
Fantasy Outlook:
Thomas has a good chance to finish as the top rookie fantasy back this season. He should get a lot of work and the goal-line chances. He is worth a long look as a No. 2 fantasy back. It wouldn't surprise to see him top 1,000 yards and score eight touchdowns. | | #138 | Arrelious Benn (WR) | TDs: 2 Yds: 395 | Tampa Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Benn didn't get many chances his rookie season, but played his way into a regular role before the year was out. He had his best showing Week 14, catching four passes for 122 yards. Benn displayed his big-game potential. Unfortunately, he had just one other game with more than 50 yards. He finished the season with just fewer than 400 yards. And Benn tore his ACL late in the season, which is a concern going forward. Apparently, he is making a great recovery, though, and expects to be ready for the start of training camp. As long as he is healthy, Benn should have a starting job alongside Mike Williams. Benn is good at making plays after the catch because of his size and speed. Benn also has plus hands and runs decent routes for a young player. He will continue to improve with more seasoning.
Fantasy Outlook:
Benn is an intriguing talent. His knee injury is a concern, but the upside for him to produce in an improving offense makes him a solid sleeper for 2011. He is coming off a disappointing rookie season, being overshadowed by another rookie, but Benn can produce in this offense. A season with 800 yards and six or so touchdowns is very possible for Benn. | | #139 | Matt Cassel (QB) | TDs: 27 Yds: 3116 | Kansas City | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
It took a couple seasons, but Cassel finally lived up to his big contract in Kansas City. He had a career season last year, throwing for more than 3,000 yards while having 27 touchdown passes to just seven interceptions. Cassel had eight games with two or more scores. He did end his season badly, though. He played poorly his last two games, including a playoff game against the Ravens, going 20-of-51 for 185 yards and five interceptions without a score those last two games. And his poor performances came amid news offensive coordinator Charlie Weis was leaving. Weis was a big factor for Cassel's success last season. Cassel could take a step backwards with Weis out of the picture this season. Plus, he has a tougher schedule. Cassel has 3,000-yard seasons two of the last three and 20-plus scores in two of those years. Cassel doesn't have a great arm and doesn't do a great job of pushing the ball downfield, but is accurate and doesn't try to force too many throws. He plays in a run-first offense, but is getting more freedom to make plays because of his ability to limit turnovers.
Fantasy Outlook:
Expect a dip in production, but not a huge downward turn. He'll be a top backup for fantasy teams worthy of some spot starts throughout the year. His yardage numbers aren't great, but he has the potential to get 25 or so touchdowns in this offense. Another 3,000-yard season also is likely, but his yardage numbers hold him back from being an elite fantasy option. | | #140 | Devin Hester (WR) | TDs: 4 Yds: 475 | Chicago | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Hester got a little less playing time at receiver last season, mainly because the Bears wanted to keep him fresh for his return duties. The move paid off as Hester returned three punts for touchdowns and was dominate on special teams. Hester still got some work in the passing game, catching 40 passes. He has three straight seasons with 40 or more receptions. Hester had fewer than 500-receiving yards, which was his lowest total in a few seasons. In his last three seasons, Hester averages 49 receptions for 632 yards and three touchdowns. The Bears should use Hester similar to last season, letting him serve as the No. 3 or 4 receiver most games. Hester is a big-play threat with the ball in his hands. He has electric moves and top speed. He has made strides as a receiver, but his biggest strength remains as a return man. He is a difference maker on special teams.
Fantasy Outlook:
Hester saw a dip in production, which was expected with a little less playing time. He gets enough work to be worth a spot start or two as a No. 4 or 5 receiver but that is about it. He could get 45 receptions for 500 or so yards and a few scores. | | #141 | Willis McGahee (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 377 | Denver | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
McGahee had the lowest numbers of his career. He had a career-low 100-rushing attempts and 380-rushing yards. His rushing totals have gone down each of the past three seasons. McGahee topped 50 yards just three times all last season. He did score five touchdowns, though, giving him 59 in seven seasons (eight per season). McGahee turns 30 during the season, so his starting days are likely about over. He can do well in a reserve role, especially as a short-yardage back. McGahee will be the top backup for the Broncos this season and should be a fine compliment to starter Knowshon Moreno. McGahee is a powerful back with plus-speed and the ability to make a big play on the outside. He also is a decent receiver, catching 22 or more passes four of seven seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
McGahee has some touchdown potential, but he won't score consistent enough to be a dependable fantasy player. He might be worth a spot start or two in the right matchup, but that is about it. A season with 500 yards and a few scores seems about right for McGahee. | | #142 | Anthony Fasano (TE) | TDs: 4 Yds: 528 | Miami | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Fasano probably had his most productive season to date, setting career highs in receptions (39) and yards (528). He even had a 100-yard game Week 10, showing some big-game potential. Fasano scored four touchdowns, which was the second best total of his career. Fasano has been consistent the last three seasons, having at least 30 receptions each of the last three years. He remains the No. 1 tight end for the Dolphins. His biggest asset probably remains as a blocker, but he is making strides as a receiver. Fasano has little speed, but pretty good hands and runs decent routes. He is a top blocker at his position, though, and a big asset for the running game.
Fantasy Outlook:
Fasano is worth some spot starts (has some touchdown potential), but count on about 35 catches for 450 yards and five scores, which isn't a huge asset for fantasy teams. He is a solid backup but don't reach for him as your No. 1 tight end. | | #143 | Brandon Jacobs (RB) | TDs: 9 Yds: 823 | New York Giants | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Jacobs averaged a career-high 5.6 yards per carry last season, but played second fiddle to Ahmad Bradshaw much of the season. Jacobs had just 147 carries, his lowest total since 2006. Jacobs had three straight seasons with 200-plus carries before last year. Jacobs has rushed for 800-plus yards four straight seasons and has 1,000-yard seasons twice during that stretch. He'll be 29 before the start of the season, though, so his best days might be behind him, especially if you consider his running style. He seems best suited as a platoon back at this stage of his career, splitting work with Ahmad Bradshaw. Jacobs is a big, bruising back with decent speed and the ability to run over would-be tacklers. Jacobs also has quick feet, which enables him to break some long runs despite his big size. He is a bit injury prone, playing a full season just twice in his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jacobs has potential. He can be a little erratic, but will churn out some yards and score seven or so touchdowns. He is best used as a No. 3 or 4 back for fantasy teams, worth some spot starts for fantasy teams. Don't expect a big bounce-back season at this stage of his career. | | #144 | Jabar Gaffney (WR) | TDs: 2 Yds: 875 | Washington | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Gaffney was a steady contributor in the Broncos' pass-first offense last season, setting career highs in receptions (65) and yards (875). Gaffney had just one 100-yard game but at least three receptions in 12 games. His best numbers of his career have come the last two seasons with the Broncos. Gaffney is likely to serve as the No. 3 or 4 receiver for the Redskins, a team he was traded before the start of training camp. Gaffney has at least 34 receptions in all but one NFL season. Gaffney is a speedy receiver with good hands. He does a good job of finding room in tight spaces, making him a solid possession receiver and good fit for the slot.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gaffney is going to see a slip in production this season. He could still get 40 or so receptions, but his yardage totals should be down. He'll be worth consideration in PPR leagues as a reserve but his value outside of those formats is limited. He has just two scores each of his last three seasons. | | #145 | Ronnie Brown (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 734 | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Brown continues his downward trend. He played every game last season, which is a plus for him, but ran for just 734 yards and averaged a career-low 3.7 yards per carry. Despite getting double-digit carries in all but three games, Brown failed to top 100-rushing yards in any game. Brown has just one 1,000-yard season for his career. He has flashed potential, but injuries and a lack of consistency have held him back. And at age 29, his best days are behind him. He is best suited for a backup or platoon role at this stage of his career, which he'll serve with the Eagles. Brown should be a good fit for the offense, having 30 or more catches in all but one season of his career. Brown is a pretty big back with good speed and big-play ability. He seems to lack some of the burst of past seasons, though. And Brown is an injury risk, playing a full season just twice in his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Brown isn't likely to have a big rebound season in a backup role. His best fantasy days are behind him. He could have a couple big games but will be inconsistent. A season with about 700 total yards and five scores is expected from Brown. He is a low-end No. 3 or 4 back for fantasy teams. | | #146 | Kerry Collins (QB) | TDs: 14 Yds: 1823 | Indianapolis | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Collins battled a few injuries last season (calf and ankle) but actually played pretty well when given a chance to start. He had 14 touchdowns in 10 games, scoring the most touchdowns since 2005. In the last four games of the season, Collins threw for 235-plus yards in every game and had nine touchdowns to three interceptions during that stretch. He showed he can still be an effective spot starter in this league. Collins heads to Indy this season where he could open the season as starter with Peyton Manning's status in question.
Fantasy Outlook:
Collins might have some value early in the year. He might be worth a late-round grab come draft day. Collins could be the starter for the Colts opening day. | | #147 | Jacoby Jones (WR) | TDs: 3 Yds: 562 | Houston | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Jones was supposed to have a breakthrough season last year, but didn't exactly play up to expectations. He did set career highs, but failed to unseat Kevin Walter in the starting lineup, cutting into his targets. Jones did have career highs in receptions (51) and yards (562). His end to his season was encouraging, though, as Jones had at least five receptions four straight games. Jones could play a larger role in the offense this season if he ups his play in training camp and preseason action. Jones also is a big asset on special teams, serving as a top return man. Jones is a big-play threat at receiver because of his top speed. He still needs some work on his route running, but continues to improve.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jones gets on sleeper lists again this season. He has some upside in a good passing game, but needs to find his way in the starting lineup to reach his full potential. If that happens, he can get 800 yards and six or so touchdowns. Jones is worth a reserve gamble late in your draft. | | #148 | Ryan Torain (RB) | TDs: 4 Yds: 742 | Washington | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Torain was one of the few positives in the Redskins' offense last season. He missed a lot of time because of injury, but when healthy, he produced. Torain had three 100-yard games and ran for nearly 750 yards despite missing six games. He finished the season with 867 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 87 total yards per game. Torain should get a chance to be the No. 1 back in Washington this season, but will have some competition from a couple rookies. Torain is a big back that runs with power and has enough speed to break plays to the outside. He is a good combination of power and speed. Injuries have dogged his career to date, though, which could hurt his chances to earn the full-time starter's gig.
Fantasy Outlook:
Torain is an injury risk, but certainly has upside after producing some big weeks last season. And you know Mike Shanahan has a history of making obscure backs into something special, which is another reason to take a chance on Torain. But with that said, Torain also has some risk. He gets hurt and isn't a sure thing to start with some promising rookies pushing for playing time. If he starts, though, Torain can have a 1,000-yard season and get near double-digit scores. Consider Torain a risk/reward pick as a No. 3 back. | | #149 | Rob Bironas (K) | FGM: 24 FGA: 26 | Tennessee | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Bironas had a tremendous season despite his so-so point totals (110). He missed just two kicks and was 2-of-3 on field goals of 50 or more yards. Bironas finished the season making 92 percent of his field goals, which was the highest total of his career. Bironas has four straight seasons with 110 or more points. He also makes an impressive 86 percent of his kicks for his career. Bironas has a booming leg, but doesn't lack accuracy. The Titans offense also seems to give Bironas plenty of chances, giving him an average of 31 field-goal attempts for his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bironas is an elite fantasy kicker. He makes a lot of long kicks and his point totals are among the best in the game. It isn't a stretch to take Bironas as the first kicker come draft day. He has the potential to lead the league in scoring. Expect his point totals to increase as the Titans' offense becomes more consistent this season. | | #150 | Jacoby Ford (WR) | TDs: 2 Yds: 470 | Oakland | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Ford emerged as a top playmaker in the Raiders' offense. He had some huge games as a receiver and return man after getting little work about the entire first half of his rookie season. Ford had two 100-yard games as a receiver and three return touchdowns on kickoffs. He had 470-receiving yards the last 10 games of the year, averaging an impressive 18.8 yards per reception. Ford also had 155-rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. He just made plays with the ball in his hands. Expect Ford to play a big role from day one in 2011. Ford is an explosive talent. He still isn't a great route runner, but improving. His speed and athleticism make him a top deep threat in the league. He has track speed and great moves in space. Ford might not start this season but should get a few chances per game down the field as a No. 3 or 4 receiver.
Fantasy Outlook:
Ford is an intriguing talent. He'll probably have some up and down games but has enough upside to be worth a late-round pick. He can get around 850 total yards and six touchdowns. The Raiders are going to find ways to get him the ball - often. | | #151 | Ed Dickson (TE) | TDs: 1 Yds: 152 | Baltimore | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Dickson didn't get much work at tight end his rookie season, but made some big plays with his limited chances. He caught 11 passes for 152 yards, averaging 13.8 yards per reception. Dickson is likely the future at tight end for the Ravens, though. He could be the starter in another season or two. For now, he should be the top backup to Todd Heap. Dickson is a talented pass catcher at tight end. He has speed to stretch the field and is a top athlete. He runs solid runs and can create mismatches in coverage. Dickson will drop some passes, though, and needs to improve his blocking.
Fantasy Outlook:
Dickson will get some more chances this coming season, but not enough to be a big factor for fantasy teams. He could get 25 receptions for 300 yards and a few scores. But until Heap is out of the picture, Dickson isn't worth owning just yet. | | #152 | Deion Branch (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 818 | New England | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
A trade back to New England was just thing to get Branch's career going back in the right direction. He played very well as a starter in the Patriots' offense, catching 48 passes for 706 yards and five touchdowns in 11 games. Branch has his first 1,000-yard season if he plays the entire season with New England last year. It was clear Branch is comfortable in the Patriots' offense and a good fit for their system. Branch had fewer than 700-receiving yards his past three seasons before this past year. He had two seasons with 800-plus yards while with the Patriots earlier in his career. Branch is 32 but he seems healthy for the first time in a few years. Branch does well on short or intermediate routes, has pretty good hands and runs well. His best attributes make him a good fit for the Patriots.
Fantasy Outlook:
His health is always a concern, but he has some upside as long as he is with the Patriots. They will spread the ball, but Branch gets his targets. He has the trust of Tom Brady. Branch probably won't get 1,000 yards but he can get 800 or 900 yards and six touchdowns, making him a guy to consider as a No. 3 or 4 receiver for fantasy teams. | | #153 | James Jones (WR) | TDs: 5 Yds: 679 | Green Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Jones had his best season to date, setting career highs in receptions and yards and tying a career high with five touchdowns. Jones got more chances and took advantage. He had some big games, including two 100-yard games. He did battle consistency, though, struggling with drops at times. Jordy Nelson seems to be passing up Jones on the depth chart, which isn't good news for Jones. He'll get his chances in the Packers' pass-first offense, but not as much as Greg Jennings and Nelson. Jones has at least 30 catches three of four seasons in the league and 675-plus yards two of those seasons. Jones has decent quickness, but runs good routes and has above-average hands. He also does well in making the tough catch, but he will drop some passes.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jones hasn't ascended quite as expected. He still has weekly potential, but isn't likely to be a big help to fantasy teams. He'll be too inconsistent. Jones could have career highs this season, but don't expect more than 800 yards, making him a deep reserve for fantasy teams. | | #154 | Jason Campbell (QB) | TDs: 13 Yds: 2387 | Oakland | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Campbell was all over the place his first season in Oakland. He opened the season as starter, got hurt, lost the starting job, got the starting job back because of injury, posted some big games and disappeared in some others. He finished the season with 14 touchdowns to eight interceptions. He had seven games with less than 200-passing yards. He also had four games with 230-plus passing yards. Campbell flashed some good things at times, but struggled at other times. In five seasons, Campbell has just one year with more than 20 touchdowns and two 3,000-yard seasons. Campbell has ability (strong arm, moves around well in pocket) but still turns the ball over too much and struggles with the deep ball. His inconsistency could cost him the starter's job in 2011.
Fantasy Outlook:
Campbell is worth a few spot starts if he is the starting quarterback, but don't use him past that. You just never know what this guy is going to do. Plus, Campbell's career numbers don't suggest a sudden breakout season. If all goes well for him, he'll finish with 3,000 or so yards and 20 touchdowns - and that is if all goes well. | | #155 | Johnny Knox (WR) | TDs: 5 Yds: 960 | Chicago | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
A new offense was just the thing to jumpstart the career of Knox, who enjoyed a breakout season last year. He had just fewer than 1,000 yards (960) and caught 50 passes. Mike Martz made him the go-to receiver in the passing game and Knox responded. He had just one 100-yard game but seven with 78 or more yards. Knox should continue to serve as the top target in the Bears suddenly pass-friendly offense. He has at least 45 receptions in each of his two seasons in the NFL. Knox has blazing speed and big-play ability. He does a great job of making a big play out of a short catch (18.8 yards per reception last season). Knox also has plus hands and his route running continues to make strides.
Fantasy Outlook:
Knox is setup for an even better season than last year. He knows the offense and has gained the trust of Jay Cutler. He has a real chance to get 70 receptions for 1,000-plus yards. Knox isn't a great red-zone option because of his size, though, which hurts his value some. Consider him a solid No. 2 receiver for 2011. | | #156 | LaDainian Tomlinson (RB) | TDs: 6 Yds: 914 | New York Jets | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Tomlinson got off to a fast start last season, his first with the Jets, but faded down the stretch. He had 70-plus rushing yards four of the first five games. But after that, Tomlinson topped 50-rushing yards just three times with the high being 57 yards. Tomlinson scored just one touchdown the last 10 games. He failed to score double-digit touchdowns for the first time in his career. Tomlinson looked a step slow late in the season, which isn't a surprise at the age of 31. He turns 32 before the season starts and has 3,099 carries under his belt, so the days of Tomlinson being a No. 1 back are about over. He'll serve a reserve role this season. Tomlinson lacks the burst from earlier in his career, but can still make plays when given the chance on a limited basis. He remains an above-average receiver and goal-line back, which should get him some playing time this season in a reserve role.
Fantasy Outlook:
Tomlinson faded quickly last season, which is a concern heading into this year. He isn't likely to get near the workload of last season. We think a season around 800 total yards and five touchdowns is about right for Tomlinson. He could help as a flex play some weeks, but his days as an every-week fantasy player are over. | | #157 | Steve Breaston (WR) | TDs: 1 Yds: 718 | Kansas City | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
A knee injury sidelined Breaston three games early in the season, but his season suffered more so from poor quarterback play. Breaston finally found his way into the starting lineup but his numbers were inconsistent. He had a couple 100-yard games and at least two catches in every game, which was a positive. But he also had fewer than 50 yards seven games. Breaston was a productive receiver for the Cardinals. Over the last three seasons, Breaston averages 60 receptions for 812 yards and two touchdowns. A move to the Chiefs might not be the best thing for his career, though. He knows the offense but should be the No. 3, working out of the slot most of the time. Breaston is a big-play receiver in the Cardinals offense, averaging over 13 yards per reception for his career. He separates in a hurry, but also has improving hands and his route-running is getting much better.
Fantasy Outlook:
Breaston is a concern. His knee never seemed to bounce back last season and a move to a new team could get him fewer targets. Don't expect a big bounce-back season. Breaston is usually good for some decent yardage totals and a few scores. He might be worth a reserve spot for fantasy teams. | | #158 | Mason Crosby (K) | FGM: 22 FGA: 28 | Green Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Crosby finished with solid point totals once again (112), but continues to struggle with his accuracy. He made 79 percent of his field-goal attempts and missed two kicks of fewer than 40 yards. Crosby is yet to make 80 percent of his kicks during a season. Crosby should continue to get plenty of chances in the Packers' offense, though. He averages 127 points per season for his career. Crosby also has a strong leg, making 10-of-21 field goals of 50 or more yards. Crosby needs to work on his accuracy, but has the makeup to improve. He has a big leg, though, and has missed eight kicks from less than 40 yards for his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Crosby has proved to be a top fantasy kicker. He has long-distance potential and his point totals are among the best in the game, playing in a great offense. Crosby seems a pretty sure thing to finish with around 120 points. You can't go wrong with Crosby as your No. 1 kicker despite his shaky accuracy. | | #159 | Michael Crabtree (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 741 | San Francisco | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Crabtree saw his production increase his second season in the league, but erratic quarterback play didn't help his overall numbers. Crabtree had less than 800-receiving yards but caught 55 passes. He had two 100-yard games but 10 games with fewer than 50 yards. A new offense and starter at quarterback could be just the thing to get Crabtree going in 2011. He is a big-time talent. Crabtree is the No. 1 receiver in the 49ers. He is a pretty polished product despite his young age. Crabtree has plus hands, runs solid routes and is a playmaker. He doesn't have elite speed, but enough to get the job done. A foot injury will keep him out of nearly all of training camp, which is a concern for the coming season. He could be slowed early in the year.
Fantasy Outlook:
Crabtree seemed setup for a breakout year before his latest setback. He is a risk because of the foot injury. He might be worth a late-round gamble, though, as he could comeback strong at some point during the season. | | #160 | Dallas Cowboys (Def) | | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | | | #161 | Stephen Gostkowski (K) | FGM: 10 FGA: 13 | New England | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Gostkowski injured his quad and missed the second half of last season. He had a few struggles before the injury, making 77 percent of his field-goal attempts. He made 2-of-4 attempts of 40-plus yards. Gostskowski had three double-digit point games, though, playing in the explosive Patriots' offense. He has 125 or more points the previous three seasons. Gostkowski has a strong leg and is a fairly accurate kicker (84 percent made for his career). And the Patriots have a great offense, giving Gostkowski a few more chances than your average kicker.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gostkowski is a safe choice at kicker. He gets a lot of chances and plays in a great offense. The only knock on Gostkowski is won't get you a ton of long-distance kicks (four field goals of 50-plus yards in five seasons). He is a top-five option come draft day, though, because of his consistent point production. | | #162 | Danny Woodhead (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 547 | New England | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Woodhead was released by the Jets after Week 1 last season, but that move turned out to be a good one for Woodhead. He was signed by the Patriots and started getting consistent work shortly thereafter. Woodhead played 14 games and finished with 926 total yards and six touchdowns. He averaged an impressive 5.6 yards per carry, displaying a lot of big-play ability. Woodhead proved to be an ideal third-down back because of his pass-catching ability. He caught 34 passes last season, averaging 11.1 yards per reception. Woodhead will continue to get work in the Patriots offense, getting around eight to 10 touches per game. Woodhead is a very small back, but has great speed and moves in the open field. His lack of size will prevent him from being an every-down back, but he can be a top change-of-pace option.
Fantasy Outlook:
Woodhead is a solid option in PPR leagues. He'll get plenty of work in the Patriots pass-first offense. He can get 1,000 total yards and five touchdowns in a full season. Woodhead also will help in standard leagues as a No. 3 or 4 back. He has upside because of his explosive nature. | | #163 | Colt McCoy (QB) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1576 | Cleveland | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
His numbers weren't off the charts his rookie season, but McCoy was the best quarterback in Cleveland and is setup to start from day one in 2011. The Browns even hired a quarterback-friendly head coach, Pat Shurmur, to help develop McCoy. He is the future in Cleveland - for now. McCoy played eight games his rookie season. He completed an impressive 61 percent of his passes and threw for 200-plus yards five of his eight games. He moved the offense and made plays. McCoy did have more interceptions (nine) than touchdowns (seven), which will need to improve going forward. McCoy seems a good fit for the Browns new West Coast offense. He is an accurate quarterback with a quick release. McCoy struggles on his deep throws more than anything, which aren't utilized a ton in this offense. McCoy also moves around the pocket well and can make plays with his feet, rushing for 136 yards last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
McCoy isn't likely to post huge numbers in this system, especially with limited options in the passing game. But McCoy showed some big-game potential last season, so he is worth a flier as a low-end No. 2 quarterback. Shurmur did a great job with Sam Bradford last season, so maybe he can mold McCoy into something special. McCoy is a good guy to grab if you get an elite quarterback as your No. 1 (i.e. Peyton Manning). | | #164 | John Kasay (K) | FGM: 25 FGA: 29 | New Orleans | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
The Panthers' offense wasn't very good, but Kasay played well with his chances. He missed just four field goals all season and scored 92 points. Kasay made an outstanding 11-of-14 field goals between 40 and 49 yards. He also was 3-of-4 from 50-plus yards. He continues to display a strong leg even at age 41. Kasay hasn't shown much signs of decline and should continue to get a chance start, especially with the new kickoff rules in place. Older kickers will hold onto their jobs longer because of the new rules. Kasay has fewer than 100 points two straight seasons, but has six 100-points season with the Panthers in 15 seasons with the team. Kasay still has a strong leg and his accuracy seems to have improved with age, making 86 percent or better of his kicks four of the last five years.
Fantasy Outlook:
Kasay can still reach 100 points but his best days are behind him. He is a stretch for fantasy teams. | | #165 | Chad Henne (QB) | TDs: 15 Yds: 3301 | Miami | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Henne was supposed to have his breakout season last year, but that didn't materialize. Henne had plenty of struggles, finishing with more interceptions (19) than touchdowns (14). He did throw for a lot of yards, though, having six games with 250-plus yards. He had his first 3,000-yard season as a pro and completed an impressive 61 percent of his passes. But Henne made too many mistakes. He still doesn't read defenses too well and makes a lot of poor decisions. Henne hasn't done much to endear himself to the Dolphins. He has more interceptions than touchdown passes in each of the last two seasons. Henne has a strong arm and can make all the throws needed in the NFL, but will struggle with his accuracy and force passes. The Dolphins are run-first team, but aren't afraid to throw the ball more with Brandon Marshall at receiver.
Fantasy Outlook:
Henne still has time to get it going, but counting on him to be anything more than a low-end No. 2 is a mistake for fantasy teams. He hasn't been consistent enough for fantasy teams to this point. Henne has upside for the big game, making him worth some spot starts throughout the year. | | #166 | Thomas Jones (RB) | TDs: 6 Yds: 896 | Kansas City | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Jones failed to top 1,000 yards for the first time in five seasons. He still had a pretty good year, though, his first with the Chiefs. He ran for 896 yards and finished with more than 1,000 total yards, which is impressive for a 32 year old back. Jones faded after a fast start, showing his age. He had fewer than 70-rushing yards his last six games. Jones had 80-plus rushing yards four of his first six games and scored three touchdowns during that stretch. Jones is finally starting to show his age, lacking some of his usual burst late in the season. He is best served in a reserve role at this point in his career. Jones isn't a huge back, but is fast with surprising power. He also catches the ball pretty well out of the backfield.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jones is fading fast. All his carries are finally catching up. He really slowed late last season, which is a concern going forward. He'll be hard pressed to match his production from last season. A season with 700 or so total yards and four or five scores seems realistic for Jones. | | #167 | Philadelphia Eagles (Def) | | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | | | #168 | Matt Bryant (K) | FGM: 28 FGA: 31 | Atlanta | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
A move to Atlanta led to the best season of Bryant's career. He didn't set a career high in points (128) but finished just shy of his best total and missed just three field goals all season. Bryant made 90 percent of his field goals, which was the highest total of his career as a full-time starter. Bryant enjoyed kicking in a dome, making 9-of-11 field goals from 40-plus yards. He should continue to get plenty of chances in the Falcons' high-powered offense. Bryant has 118 or more points three of the last four seasons. Bryant has a great leg and his accuracy continues to get better and better.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bryant is an elite fantasy kicker in this offense. He'll provide high point totals and some long-distance kicks. He seems a pretty good bet to get around 120 points in this offense. Consider him a top No. 1 for the coming season. | | #169 | Cam Newton (QB) | | Carolina | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
The Panthers made Newton the first pick in the draft this year, finding a face for the franchise for years to come. He won't be handed the starting job but will get his chance to win the job in training camp and preseason action, competing with Jimmy Clausen. Newton is a gifted athlete. He runs like a running back, has the size of a linebacker and can make all the throws at quarterback. He ran a pretty simple system in college, though, so it could take some time for him to adjust to a complex playbook as well as reading NFL defenses. Newton has a quick release and rocket for an arm. He did struggle some completing passes downfield, which is another concern. Newton is a dangerous runner as well as passer, making him a top dual threat at quarterback. He should be starting at some point this season - probably sooner than later. The Panthers' offense could be a good fit for Newton because of their run-first approach. This could help ease him into things his first season in the league.
Fantasy Outlook:
Newton won't be much of a fantasy threat in the Panthers' run-first offense, but he has some upside because of his ability to make plays with his feet. He could rush for 400 yards as well as throwing for 2,000. Don't expect huge touchdown totals, getting something around 15 for the season. The Panthers just don't have many weapons offensively. He is a better pick in dynasty leagues but if you want him for this season, consider him a low-end No. 2 or solid No. 3 quarterback. | | #170 | Plaxico Burress (WR) | | New York Jets | Bye: 8 | | | | | #171 | Alex Smith (QB) | TDs: 14 Yds: 2370 | San Francisco | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Smith had another up and down season. He missed some time with a shoulder injury and lost his starting job to Troy Smith at one point as well. He finished the year with 14 touchdowns to 10 interceptions, which isn't too bad, but he had two interceptions four of 11 games. He still made a lot of mistakes and failed to consistently move the offense. Smith has been given many chances to start throughout his career, but hasn't done much with those chances. He has more interceptions (53) than touchdown passes (51) for his career. He has all the tools to be a starting quarterback, but can't seem to put it all together. Smith has a big arm, moves around the pocket pretty well and will make some plays running the ball. His accuracy has improved some, but still remains an issue, completing 57 percent of his passes for his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Smith is far from a sure thing because of his track record. He has ability and has been good at times for fantasy teams, but don't count on a sudden breakout season. He is more of a waiver-wire grab if he starts to show signs of life. There is potential with Smith, though, especially in a new offense that should produce better this season. | | #172 | Roy Helu (RB) | | Washington | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Helu will get a chance to start his rookie season. He has some competition for carries but will be given a chance to compete for the starting job. And Helu is the complete package so he has a decent chance to be the starter from day one. Helu has good size and speed. He hits the hole in a hurry and can reach the next level quickly. He isn't completely polished as a receiver, but does pretty well in that area. Helu has decent hand, but needs work on his pass protection. Helu doesn't have elite speed, but makes up for that with his power.
Fantasy Outlook:
Not sure Helu starts, but he'll get work, especially since he can get it done as a receiver. He is worth a flier as a No. 3 back because you never know what Mike Shanahan will do at running back. Helu could emerge as the starter at some point during the season. Helu seems likely to finish with around 650 total yards and a few scores. | | #173 | Randall Cobb (WR) | | Green Bay | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Cobb should be a good fit for the Packers' offense. He isn't a big receiver, but runs solid routes and makes plays in space. He should do well in three or four receiver sets for the Packers. Cobb has plus hands and just seems to make plays. He isn't a speed burner, but is capable of making the big play. He should serve as a reserve option in the Packers' offense, getting a decent number of targets his rookie season in a pass-heavy offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Cobb won't be a consistent option all season, but will have the occasional big game. He has a little more potential in PPR leagues. He could get 30 or so receptions for around 400 yards and a few scores. He'll be a bigger factor in a few seasons after getting his feet wet and learning the Packers' system. | | #174 | David Nelson (WR) | TDs: 3 Yds: 353 | Buffalo | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Nelson was a good find for the Bills, who picked him up as an undrafted free agent last season. Nelson earned some playing time with the Bills and posted solid numbers for a rookie, catching 31 passes for 353 yards. He should play a big role with the Bills' offense from day one this season. He could even start. Nelson is a big target with good hands and the ability to move the chains. Nelson has a great build for the receiver position in the NFL.
Fantasy Outlook:
Nelson isn't a big-play threat, but will get some catches and yards. He could get 60 receptions for 600 yards and three to four scores, making him a late target in PPR formats. | | #175 | Matt Hasselbeck (QB) | TDs: 12 Yds: 3001 | Tennessee | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Hasselbeck was all over the place last season. He had four multiple touchdown games and two 300-yard games, but also had five games with two or more interceptions. He had 15 total touchdowns to 17 interceptions for the season. Hasselbeck also fought injury again, missing a couple games. He hasn't played a full season three straight years.
In his last three seasons, Hasselbeck has 44 interceptions to 34 touchdown passes. His career is going in the wrong direction, but isn't a surprise at age 35 (turns 36 early in the season). He heads to Tennessee this season to take over as starter until Jake Locker is ready. Hasselbeck never had a huge arm, but has above-average accuracy and does a good job of managing the offense. He has been beat up the last few seasons, which makes him an injury risk but a move to a more run-heavy offense could help his chances of staying healthy.
Fantasy Outlook:
Hasselbeck has some upside because of past success, so he could help fantasy teams. But his recent trend of turnovers is a big concern. His decision making is going downhill. Don't expect much from Hasselbeck this season, especially with a move to a more run-oriented offense. His days of consistently helping fantasy teams are over. | | #176 | Roy Williams (WR) | TDs: 0 Yds: 109 | Chicago | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Williams had a three-week stretch of big performances, but really did little besides that. During those three weeks, he scored five touchdowns and had 232 yards. Take those games away and Williams has 298 yards and no touchdowns in 12 games. Williams has less than 600 yards three straight seasons. A move to Dallas didn't jumpstart his career. Williams does have a 1,000-yard season, but is less than 900 yards in every other season of his career, which spans seven seasons. Williams is a big target with plus strength, but he isn't very explosive and has struggled with drops in recent years. He heads to Chicago this season, reuniting with Mike Martz. Williams had his best season with Martz calling plays for him while with the Lions. He has a chance to start for the Bears and serve a big role in the offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Williams is worth a late-round flier this season. He is no sure thing based on the past few seasons but his chances of rebounding got better with his move to Chicago. He could get a lot of targets in this offense. Give him a look as a low-end No. 3 or 4 receiver. | | #177 | Austin Pettis (WR) | | St Louis | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Pettis won't wow you with his speed, but he is a big target that runs very good routes. He seems a great fit for the red zone, which was a weakness for the Rams last season. Pettis produced huge numbers in college and had a lot of success for a good Boise State team. He seems to have the intangibles to be a productive NFL player. The Rams should be more pass-first this season, so Pettis has a chance to grab a lot of playing time as a No. 3 or 4 receiver.
Fantasy Outlook:
Pettis has some red-zone potential, which makes him worth a look late in drafts. His overall numbers likely won't be off the charts, but he could get five or so touchdowns and around 500 yards. He'll get his chances. | | #178 | Eddie Royal (WR) | TDs: 3 Yds: 627 | Denver | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Royal improved on his '09 season but still wasn't near the production of his rookie season. He had an up and down year in the Broncos' pass-first offense. Royal was in a rotation at receiver, getting consistent but not off the charts targets. Royal was targeted more than 100 times (105) but caught just 59 passes for 627 yards. In three seasons, Royal averages 62 receptions for 651 yards and three touchdowns per season. Royal is becoming a dependable possession receiver in the Broncos' offense. Royal has top speed and good hands. He makes things happen with the ball in his hands. The Broncos new offense should be run-first for the coming year, which will lead to fewer targets for Royal and all the Broncos' receivers. Royal could be the No. 3 receiver for the Broncos with Brandon Lloyd and Demaryius Thomas serving as the starters.
Fantasy Outlook:
Royal isn't going to see his numbers improve much in the new offense. He is likely to finish with similar or even lower numbers than this past season. Expect something around 50 catches for 550 yards and a few scores, making him a deep reserve for fantasy teams. | | #179 | Andy Dalton (QB) | | Cincinnati | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Dalton has some big shoes to fill in Cincinnati, but he'll be given the keys to the offense likely from day one in 2011 (Bruce Gradkowski provides competition for starter's job). Dalton seems a good fit for the franchise, though. He was a winner in college and does all the little things right to be a top NFL quarterback. His arm isn't huge, but he is accurate and does well with hitting his receivers in stride. Dalton should be a good fit for the Bengals new West Coast offense. Dalton does need to get a little stronger if he hopes to withstand the punishment from the NFL.
Fantasy Outlook:
Dalton has a chance to be the top rookie quarterback. He plays in a pretty good offense and is likely starting right away. He could throw for 3,000 yards and around 20 touchdowns but don't be surprised if his interception totals are high his rookie season. Consider him a low-end No. 2 for fantasy teams. | | #180 | Michael Bush (RB) | TDs: 8 Yds: 655 | Oakland | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Bush kind of took a backseat to Darren McFadden, who had a breakout year, but Bush also did some damage with his chances. He got some starts because of injury and a good amount of work in some other games. Bush had two 100-yard games and double-digit carries in six games. Bush set career highs in rushing attempts, yards and touchdowns. Bush has seen his production go up each season in the league. He seems to make plays whenever given the chance. Bush is a big, athletic back with speed. Injuries have dogged him some throughout his career, but he was able to stay healthy for most of the past few seasons. Bush also does pretty well as a receiver considering his size. He averaged 18 receptions per season for his career. He'll likely play a backup role again this season, getting double-digit carries on occasion.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bush has upside, but might have a hard time matching last season. He is more of a low-end No. 3 or No. 4 back for fantasy teams. He can get you 700 total yards and six or so touchdowns, giving him some value for a few spot starts. | | #181 | Jacob Tamme (TE) | TDs: 4 Yds: 631 | Indianapolis | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Tamme got a chance to start because of an injury to Dallas Clark last season. Tamme grabbed hold of the job Week 8 and never looked back. He had at least four receptions the last 10 games of the season. In those 10 games, Tamme averaged seven receptions for 63 yards. He was a huge part of the Colts' offense, gaining a nice rapport with Peyton Manning. Tamme will head back to his backup job with Dallas Clark healthy this season, but Tamme should be in the mix for playing time after playing at a high level last season. Tamme is a solid receiver with the speed to stretch the field. He plays more like a receiver than a tight end, making him a tough cover for the opposition. Tamme isn't much of a blocker, but he isn't needed to fill that role much in this offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Tamme won't match last season, so don't overvalue him. He has some potential, though, even with Clark around. He should get some targets in a pass-first offense. Tamme can get 30 or 40 receptions around 400 yards, making him a low-end No. 2 or solid No. 3 tight end. And you normally don't handcuff a tight end, but Tamme is worth some consideration as a backup if you grab Clark early in your draft. | | #182 | Rex Grossman (QB) | TDs: 7 Yds: 884 | Washington | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Grossman actually found his way back in the starting lineup, getting some starts with the Redskins after Donovan McNabb got benched. And Grossman was a bit of a surprise in a starting role. In his three starts, Grossman had two 300-yard games and seven touchdowns to four interceptions. He moved the offense and made some big plays downfield. Grossman has been a starter in this league, though, and had some success. He has a 3,000-yard and 20-plus touchdown season under his belt. Grossman could get another chance to start after his pretty good play to end last season. He still struggles with accuracy, completing 54 percent of his passes for his career. Grossman is a bit of a gunslinger. He'll take chances downfield and force some passes. If he starts making better decisions and being a little more careful with the ball, Grossman could find his way in the starting lineup, again.
Fantasy Outlook:
Grossman has some big-game potential in a starting role, but he isn't too dependable. Consider him waiver-wire material, worthy of using in a few games against the right opponent. He is a reach to count on as much more than that. | | #183 | Ben Tate (RB) | | Houston | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Tate was drafted with the hopes of becoming the top back in Texans' offense. Unfortunately, he injured his ankle in the preseason last year and needed surgery to repair he ankle, missing his entire rookie season. As he was on the sideline, Tate watched Arian Foster emerge as one of the best backs in the league as the starter in Houston. This means Tate will compete for the top backup job to Foster in 2011. Tate is a good fit for the Texans offense. He is a one-cut runner that hits the hole in a hurry and can get to the next level with little effort. Tate also has good size, giving him the ability to run over would-be tacklers. He isn't a finesse back.
Fantasy Outlook:
Unless Foster gets hurt, Tate has little value. He is the handcuff to Foster, though, which makes him worth drafting in fantasy leagues. If he had to step in for Foster, Tate could do some damage behind that offensive line. For now, count on about 400 or 500 total yards and a few scores. | | #184 | Jason Snelling (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 324 | Atlanta | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Snelling didn't match the previous seasons rushing totals but didn't get the chances to reach that mark. He did a great job as a receiver, having a career-high 44 receptions. He was a great third-down back for the Falcons. Snelling also didn't do too badly as a rusher when given the chance, topping the 100-yard mark in Week 2. In the last two seasons, Snelling averaged 750 total yards and five touchdowns. Snelling seems an ideal backup for the Falcons. He doesn't have top speed for the running back spot, but runs well between the tackles and has the size to move the pile. He also has plus hands, catching 74 passes the last two seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Snelling is quickly gaining fantasy value, especially in PPR leagues. And with Michael Turner's workload high, he is no sure thing to make it through the season healthy. Snelling is a good pick as a reserve back late in your draft. He has the potential for 700 total yards and a half dozen scores. Snelling also is a good handcuff for Turner owners. | | #185 | Jordan Shipley (WR) | TDs: 3 Yds: 600 | Cincinnati | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Shipley probably had a better rookie season than expected. He grabbed the No. 3 receiver job before the start of the season and served as a dependable option in the passing game all year. He caught 52 passes, having at least two receptions in all but a game. Shipley should continue to serve a similar role going forward. He is a great fit for this role. Shipley is a good route runner, has plus hands and gets off the line well because of his size. He doesn't have great speed, though, which could hold him back from starting in the NFL.
Fantasy Outlook:
Shipley is a solid option in PPR leagues. He won't get many yards, maybe 750, but has a good chance to finish with 65-plus receptions. Shipley also sees his value go down some outside of PPR leagues because he won't score much. He scored three times last season and probably won't see that number rise much this season. | | #186 | Sebastian Janikowski (K) | FGM: 33 FGA: 41 | Oakland | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
It took several seasons but Janikowski had a monster season last year, scoring a career-high 142 points. He made 81 percent of his field-goal attempts, including 4-of-7 from 50-plus yards. He has made 10 field goals from 50 or more yards the last two seasons. Janikowski had less than 100 points five straight seasons before last year. He got a lot of chances last year for both field goals and extra points, which led to his big point total. The Raiders' offense is turning the corner, which should help the production of Janikowski. He has struggled with accuracy through the years, but seems to finally be making some strides. Janikowski has a booming leg and makes as many long distance kicks as any kicker in the league.
Fantasy Outlook:
Janikowski finally reached his potential last season. Will he repeat that season? Probably not, but he can be a top fantasy kicker in an improving offense. He'll get you some long-distance kicks and his point totals should be solid - around 115 or so. This isn't the Sebastian Janikowski of past seasons. He is turning the corner. | | #187 | Earl Bennett (WR) | TDs: 3 Yds: 561 | Chicago | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Bennett had another solid season in a reserve role for the Bears last season. He topped 45 receptions for the second straight season. His numbers were a little down compared to the previous season, but pretty close to his career-best season. In the last two seasons, Bennett averages 50 receptions for 639 yards and three touchdowns. Bennett should continue to get some playing time with the starting unit and serve as the No. 3 receiver most weeks for the Bears. Bennett isn't a speed guy, but has some quickness and is a solid possession receiver. He seems a better fit for the slot than as a starter.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Bears passing game will spread the wealth, which is good for Bennett, but don't expect huge numbers from the reserve receiver. His averages the last two seasons are a pretty good indicator for this coming season. He should get around 50 receptions for 600 yards and a few scores, making him a decent reserve for fantasy teams. He'll have the occasional big game. | | #188 | T.J. Yates (QB) | | Houston | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Yates comes from a pro style offense in college that should prove valuable in his transition to the NFL. Yates isn't a physically imposing player, but could eventually turn into a solid NFL backup. He is a pretty accurate quarterback that makes good decisions. He will struggle with throws downfield and doesn't have an ideal arm for the pro game. He has some work to do, but if he shows the progress he made in college to the NFL, he could have success at the next level.
Fantasy Outlook:
Yates is a reach for fantasy teams. He likely will be the No. 3 or even a practice squad player his rookie season. He has a lot of work to do to move up the depth chart. | | #189 | Tim Tebow (QB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 654 | Denver | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Tebow was used in certain packages throughout the season, especially near the goal line. He was effective in that role, scoring six rushing touchdowns. Tebow eventually got some starts at the end of the season as the Broncos fell out of the playoffs and Kyle Orton got hurt. Tebow played pretty well. He had a 300-yard game in Week 16 and had 11 total touchdowns to three interceptions for the season. Tebow had some accuracy issues (completed 50 percent of his passes), but just made plays with his legs and arms when given the chance. He is a playmaker and football player. Tebow came a long way from when he was drafted, making a lot of progress as an NFL quarterback. At the moment, Tebow is the top backup to Kyle Orton, who the Broncos are going with as their starter. Tebow could start at some point this season but it doesn't look good for that right now. Tebow still has a bit of a long delivery, but it is improved from his college days. He has decent arm strength and is a top athlete. Tebow might be the best running quarterback outside of Michael Vick. He does have struggles with accuracy, but should get better in that area with more seasoning.
Fantasy Outlook:
Tebow is falling down our rankings and with good reason as he isn't going to start right now. If he starts at some point, he'll be up and down. He has potential, mainly because of his ability to run the ball. His rushing ability gives him the potential for good touchdown totals. Don't expect his passing numbers to be consistent when he is in the game. He is a better pick in keeper leagues than anything right now. | | #190 | Tarvaris Jackson (QB) | TDs: 3 Yds: 341 | Seattle | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Jackson finally found his way in the starting lineup but didn't last long after sustaining a toe injury. He played just three games. And in those three games, Jackson wasn't great. He completed 58 percent of his passes but had three touchdowns to four interceptions and failed to throw for more than 200 yards in any game. Jackson has starting experience, but not done a lot with those chances. He has 24-passing touchdowns to 22 interceptions and completed fewer than 60 percent of his passes for his career. Jackson seems more backup material than anything but he'll get another chance to win a starting job this season, competing with Charlie Whitehurst for the job in Seattle. At this point, the job is really Jackson's to lose as head coach Pete Carroll is high on him. Jackson is a good athlete. He has a plus arm and does a good job making plays on the move. The big knocks on Jackson are he lacks accuracy and makes poor decisions. He also doesn't throw a great deep ball. Jackson knows the offense in Seattle, which helps his chances to start in Seattle.
Fantasy Outlook:
Even when starting some games in past years, Jackson was a stretch for fantasy teams. He has some upside because of his running ability, but his numbers will be too erratic to be anything more than a low-end No. 2 for fantasy teams. | | #191 | Jake Delhomme (QB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 872 | Houston | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Delhomme began the season as starter for the Browns, but hurt his ankle the first game of the year, which derailed his season. He eventually got healthy but rookie Colt McCoy grabbed hold of the starter's job while Delhomme was out. Delhomme played five games all season. He had two touchdowns to seven interceptions. He had a few solid yardage games (three games with 217 or more yards) but had fewer than 100-passing yards his other two games. Delhomme showed his inconsistency once again. In his last two seasons, Delhomme has 10 touchdowns to 25 interceptions. Delhomme is 36 years old, so his days of being an every-week starter are about over. He can be a capable backup, though. He has past success and showed he can play well at times last season. Delhomme still has a strong arm and likes to take chances downfield. His knock has always been a lack of accuracy and making too many mistakes.
Fantasy Outlook:
Delhomme is not a fantasy option at this stage of his career. He might get a few starts, but even if that happens, we wouldn't bother. For his career, Delhomme really had just two years that he helped fantasy teams, so keep this in mind when considering him. His best days are behind him. | | #192 | Shane Vereen (RB) | | New England | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Vereen gives the Patriots a big-play option at running back. He will compete with a host of backs for carries, but should find work in the committee approach the Patriots employ at running back. Vereen isn't a huge back, which hurts his chances to be an every-down back, but he has the speed and hands to excel as a third-down back. Vereen will need to bulk up if he ever hopes to be a starter in the NFL. His home-run ability will get him on the field plenty, though.
Fantasy Outlook:
Vereen will be hit or miss most weeks, but has a lot of weekly upside for the big game. His total yardage numbers should be decent his rookie season. Expect about 600 total yards and four or so touchdowns. He is worth a look as a No. 3 or 4 back. | | #193 | Luke McCown (QB) | TDs: 0 Yds: 120 | Jacksonville | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
McCown had a great preseason last year and pushed David Garrard for the starting job in Jacksonville. McCown didn't win the job but got his chance Week 2. He was 11-of-19 for 120 yards before tearing his ACL near the end of the game. He was placed on Injured Reserve and underwent surgery to repair the injury. McCown has down well in spurts when given the chance, but hasn't quite proved he is ready to be a full-time starter in the NFL. His injury shouldn't be a factor heading into this season as he had plenty of time to rehab. McCown is a big kid with a plus arm. He likes to push the ball downfield. McCown's biggest knock had been accuracy and decision making. He has the size and arm strength to be an NFL starter, but at age 30, he needs to make his move now.
Fantasy Outlook:
McCown could post some decent numbers for fantasy teams if he happens to get a few starts. He likes to take chances downfield, which gives him some potential for some big games. But McCown is a long shot to get some starts. | | #194 | Justin Forsett (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 523 | Seattle | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Forsett had double-digit carries three of his first five games last season but saw his playing time decrease in the running game once Marshawn Lynch came on board. Forsett served his usual change-of-pace back duties well, though. He topped 700 total yards for the second straight season. In the last two years, Forsett averages 872 total yards and 37 receptions per season. He serves his role well in the Seahawks offense. Forsett is a big-play back. He probably doesn't have the size to be an every-down back, but Forsett possesses very good speed and moves in space. The Seahawks will find ways to get his playmaking ability involved in the offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Forsett is a good guy to target as a No. 3 back in PPR leagues. He can get around 50 receptions and 800 total yards. He won't score much, though, having seven touchdowns in two seasons, hurting his overall fantasy value. | | #195 | Peyton Manning (QB) | TDs: 33 Yds: 4700 | Indianapolis | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Manning actually broke a career record for him last season. He threw for the most yards of his career (4,700), throwing for nearly 200 yards more than his previous career high. But the Colts didn't have much of a running game all season, which led to a lot more chances for Manning. He had seven 300-yard games and finished with 33 touchdown passes. Manning has thrown for 4,000-plus yards five straight seasons. He has 30-plus touchdown passes six seasons. Manning did turn the ball over more than past seasons (17 interceptions), but that will happen when you attempt 679 passes. Manning is 35 years old, but doesn't seem to be slowing down at all. He plays in a high-powered offense with quality options at receiver. Manning doesn't have a huge arm, but is extremely accurate and cerebral. He knows the Colts offense inside and out, and calls most of the plays at the line of scrimmage. Manning had neck surgery this offseason, but should be ready for training camp.
Fantasy Outlook:
Manning is about as sure as it gets when it comes to fantasy quarterbacks. He'll get you 4,000 yards and around 30 scores every season. Expect similar success this year. It makes sense for the Colts to try and establish the run better this season, but even with that said, Manning will get plenty of chances. He is a top-three fantasy quarterback, producing consistent numbers for fantasy teams. | | #196 | Colin Kaepernick (QB) | | San Francisco | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
The 49ers nabbed their quarterback of the future with their second pick in the draft. Kaepernick is an athletic quarterback that gets it done as a passer and runner. He is a legit dual threat. He also has a rocket for an arm and can make all the throws necessary in the pro game. Kaepernick comes from a gimmick offense, though, so it could take some time for him to adjust to the pro game. He'll likely sit a season or two before becoming the starter in San Francisco. He is the future at quarterback for the 49ers, though.
Fantasy Outlook:
Kaepernick has value in dynasty leagues, but isn't likely getting a ton of playing time this season unless the 49ers fall out of playoff contention. He still has a lot to learn and adjust to in the pro game. If you have a deep roster, he is worth a flier as a No. 3 quarterback but that is about it - for now. He does have a bright future in an emerging offense. | | #197 | Ricky Williams (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 673 | Baltimore | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Williams finally seems to be slowing some, which isn't a surprise at age 33 (turns 34 before start of the season). He didn't follow his 1,000-yard season too well, rushing for 673 yards and scoring three touchdowns. Williams wasn't terrible, though, averaging 4.2 yards per carry. He was the best back in Miami last season, but that isn't saying a whole lot with Ronnie Brown struggling. Williams has five 1,000-yard seasons in his career and has topped 650-rushing yards each of the last three seasons. He wants to keep playing, but is a backup at this stage of his career, a role he'll serve with the Ravens this season. Williams runs with power and still has enough speed to make plays to the outside. He also is an underrated receiver, catching 83 passes the last three seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Williams is a risk at his age. The carries are finally starting to pile up for him, which is a concern. He'll probably get you 600 total yards and a couple scores. That isn't going to help a ton of fantasy teams, but might be worth a few starts as a flex play. | | #198 | Javon Ringer (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 239 | Tennessee | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Ringer didn't get much work as the top backup to Chris Johnson, but did some good things with his chances. He displayed some big-play ability, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. Ringer had just 50 carries all season and double-digit carries only once. Johnson is the clear lead back in Tennessee, limiting Ringer's work. Ringer can do some good things with the ball in his hands. He isn't a big back, but runs pretty well between the tackles and has the speed to break some big plays. He seems a pretty good compliment to Johnson. Ringer probably doesn't have the ideal size to be an every-down back (5-9, 205 pounds).
Fantasy Outlook:
Ringer is a good handcuff for Chris Johnson owners. He would be the lead back if Johnson goes down. And Ringer could produce well in a starting role if called on. But if he doesn't start, his numbers aren't going to be impressive. He could get 400 total yards and a few scores. | | #199 | Adam Vinatieri (K) | FGM: 26 FGA: 28 | Indianapolis | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Vinatieri was healthy last season and it showed in his production. He had one of his best season as a pro, missing just two field goals all season. He made 93 percent of his kicks and finished with 129 points. It was his first season with 120-plus points since 2004. Last season also was just the third time of his career he made 90 percent or better of his field-goal attempts. At age 38, Vinatieri doesn't have as strong of a leg anymore, but the new kickoff rules could prolong his career a little longer. Vinatieri has made just two kicks of 50 or more yards the last eight seasons. He remains extremely accurate and clutch, though, continuing to make game-winning kicks every season. Vinatieri has topped 100 points all but one season during his illustrious NFL career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Vinatieri isn't the sure No. 1 of past seasons, but still capable of being a top kicker in a great Colts offense, as evident by last season. As long as he stays healthy, Vinatieri will score 115-plus points and be among the top fantasy kickers in the game. He won't give you many long-distance kicks, but you can live with that as long as he keeps piling on the points. | | #200 | Baltimore Ravens (Def) | | Baltimore | Bye: 5 | | | |
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