Pardon My Bias

Drew Brees is coming off a Super Bowl victory and is easily one of the most popular QBs in the NFL.  There is no question that he has deserved every dollar he has gotten from the New Orleans Saints over the past 4 seasons.  Drew Brees is a top 3 QB in the NFL today and unfortunately the San Diego Chargers did not believe he was capable of this and let him leave San Diego in the 2006 off season. This article is not written to disrespect current Chargers QB Phillip Rivers for he has been a great QB and has become a top 10 QB in the NFL himself.  But this article is meant to look back and see what could have been had A.J. Smith and the Chargers kept Brees back in 2006.

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It is understandable why the Chargers drafted Phillip Rivers back in 2004: The Chargers were tied for the worst record in the 2003 NFL season, they had a special running back in Ladainian Tomlinson, and Drew Brees struggled and was replaced by Doug Flutie during the middle of the season. But Rivers’ holdout during the 2004 training camp allowed Brees to retain his starting position during the 2004 season.  Drew Brees went on to get his first Pro Bowl selection as well as the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award. Brees had a 104.8 QB rating and threw a career high 27 TDs. The Chargers finished the season 12-4 only to lose to the New York Jets in overtime of the divisional playoff game after Nate Kaeding missed a field goal at the end of regulation.

While the Chargers record dropped to 9-7 in the 2005 season Brees continued to impress people around the league as he threw for over 3,500 yards and 24 TDs.  While the Chargers missed the playoffs, the biggest blow was the injury to Brees’ throwing shoulder in week 17 against the Denver Broncos.  Brees required surgery after the season and this may have contributed to why the Chargers did not bring Brees back for the 2006 season.

The Chargers did offer a contract, but it was incentive based and had very little guaranteed money.  Brees took this as an insult that the Chargers did not believe in him and his health.  Brees left to New Orleans for a 6 year, $60 million contract that had $10 million guaranteed for the first season.  The confidence the Saints showed in Brees was enough for him and he signed his new contract, leaving San Diego behind.

In the first year of the Rivers era, the Chargers finished with a 14-2 record but had an early playoff exit.  In New Orleans, Brees led the Saints to NFC Championship game.  Brees went to his 2nd Pro Bowl and threw for over 4000 yds and 26 TDs during the regular season.  While the Chargers have been to the post season every year since Drew Brees left, they have yet to reach the Super Bowl.  Phillip Rivers has put up good numbers, but for one reason or another the Chargers can’t seem to beat Belichick’s New England Patriots in the playoffs (I understand Rivers tore his ACL in 2008 and continued to play on it in the 2nd half of the Patriots game).  The Saints on the other hand missed the playoffs in 2007 and 2008 (despite Brees being the second QB to throw for over 5,000 yards in NFL history in 2008) but seemed unstoppable in 2009.  Brees had a career high 109.6 QB rating led the Saints to a Super Bowl victory over Peyton Manning’s Indianapolis Colts earlier this year.

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There is no doubt in my mind that if Drew Brees remained a Charger in 2006, the San Diego Chargers would have won the Super Bowl during LaDainian Tomlinson’s prime.  While Rivers was a very efficient passer, the Chargers leaned on Tomlinson to carry the load and the defenses stacked the box against him and he was worn out by playoff time.  Given Rivers’ weapons in the passing game, the team should have beaten the Patriots and at least advanced to the Super Bowl.  In the 4 years since the QB switch, the Chargers have surrounded Rivers with many weapons.  Rivers has a solid defense since Shawne Merriman was drafted, Rivers has been the beneficiary of one of the league’s best ground games led by Tomlinson, and Rivers has also had a talented receiving corps with Antonio Gates and Vincent Jackson. Over in New Orleans, the Saints defense gave the opposition points at will, Brees has yet to have a competent running game, and Brees has made due with a receiver corps that has players like Lance Moore, Devery Henderson, an old Jeremy Shockey, and Marques Colston (who is relevant mainly because of Drew Brees himself).  The supporting cast of the Chargers is undoubtedly more talented than the Saints supporting cast.  And it can be argued that Drew Brees has accomplished much more with far less talent than Rivers up to this point.

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As far as I’m concerned, the Chargers owe their fans an apology.  By picking an unproven QB who was only 2 years younger than their All-Pro QB, the Chargers wasted the career of one of the top 10 running backs in NFL history.  With a Brees-Tomlinson-Gates attack (all in their respective primes) would have been too much to handle by any defense in the NFL.  GM A.J. Smith’s personnel moves have forced to the Chargers to be in flux and always on the brink of contending for a Super Bowl, yet always falling short due to their inadequacies.  The 2010 Chargers now have an unproven backfield, an aging Antonio Gates, and a defense with plenty of holes.  The Chargers may have missed their chance at a Super Bowl ring, we’ll just have to wait and see how far Rivers can carry this team. Drew Brees on the other hand is probably thankful for the Chargers’ lack of confidence in him. Brees has become a one of the best QBs in the game and will be looking to add to his legacy in years to come.

The NFL season is fast-approaching and that means fantasy football drafts are happening all across the country.  Here is a list of my top 50 fantasy players for the year. I have written why I feel the top 10 are deserving of their placement and what I expect them to accomplish this year. But before I get into that, here are some thoughts for fantasy football managers everywhere.

Rule 1: Do not waste a pick on a kicker until double digit rounds.  The best kicker in the league averages about 1 point more a game than the worst kicker in the league.  Not worth losing solid back up players to pick up a “tier 1″ kicker.

Rule 2: With the league becoming a passing league, it is essential to get a top 5 QB. This means you must do whatever you can to ensure that you get either Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers, Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, or Phillip Rivers.

Rule 3: Be wary of the sophmore slump.  Be careful with using a high pick on a player that has only had one great fantasy year.  Example: Last year, “experts” were extremely high on Matt Forte and Steve Slaton.  So high, that in mock drafts across the country experts were putting these two in the top 20 players in the draft (Forte was top 10). When weighing the option of picking a rookie versus a proven vet, the rookie might have more upside but the vet is the safe bet.

Rule 4: Don’t be afraid to take the chance on a sleeper pick as a viable backup to your starters.  Players like Justin Forsett, Alex Smith, and Justin Gage could be surprise players worth a pick late in the draft.

Rule 5: Get a top 5 tight end this year.  After the top 5 tight ends, the position lacks production.  So if you can get Dallas Clark, Antonio Gates, Vernon Davis, Brent Celek,  or Tony Gonzalez then do it.

Rule 6: Get a top 10 WR, it is extremely important to do this. The dropoff after the top 10 WRs is significant, in today’s NFL a reliable WR is a must.

Rule 7: Don’t get multiple players from one team.  If you end up with your top QB, RB, and WR from the same team, then you did not do your homework.

Without further adieu, here are my top 50 fantasy football players for the 2010 NFL season.

1. Chris Johnson – RB- Tennessee Titans

You can’t really lose with either Johnson or Peterson as the #1 overall pick.  But Johnson is coming off a 2,000 yard year and will be relied upon more than Peterson (due to a sub-par passing attack). And now that his contract situation has been worked out he can put his full focus on making defenses pay.

http://www.forbes.com/2009/08

2. Adrian Peterson- RB- Minnesota Vikings

With Chester Taylor gone, expect Peterson’s numbers to go up.  But if Favre comes back, expect the increase to be minimal to moderate. While I do expect Peterson to get about 1500 yards and 15-20 TDs, his fumble total continues to alarm me.

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3. Maurice Jones-Drew- RB- Jacksonville Jaguars

Dual threat RB that is going to hurt defenses no matter what they throw at him.

4. Ray Rice- RB- Baltimore Ravens

Another RB that can give opposition plenty of fits.  He had over 2,000 all-purpose yards and expect him to replicate that this year.  The only downside is him losing goal-line touches to Willis McGahee and LeRon McClain.

5. Frank Gore-RB- San Francisco 49ers

Gore has had 4 straight 1000 rushing yard seasons and his TD total has increased over the past 3.  With an improved offensive line, fantasy owners should expect that trend to continue. Also with an improved aerial attack, the load on Gore should be decreased. Expect Gore’s receiving stats to increase this year as well.

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6. Andre Johnson- WR- Houston Texans

When playing all 16 games, Johnson has gotten 1000+ yards 5 out of 6 years and 100+ receptions in 3 of the last 4 years.  He has been the one of the most consistent receiver over the years. I expect him to improve and get double digit TDs for the first time in his career.

7. Michael Turner- RB- Atlanta Falcons

After an injury hampered him last year, expect Turner to return close to 2008 form. Burner Turner should get around 1300 TDs and about 12-14 TDs.

8. Steven Jackson- RB- St. Louis Rams

Despite being constantly banged up, Jackson has had 5 straight 1000+ yards.  He will continue to be the workhorse for a putrid Rams offense.  The only thing holding Jackson back is his TD total.

9. Drew Brees- QB- New Orleans Saints

Coming off a career high QB rating, Brees looks to lead his team to another Super Bowl.  His accuracy and deep ball ability allow him to get high yardage and low INT totals.  With his ability to spread the ball, Brees continues to torch defensive secondaries. Expect Brees to have another 4000+ yard total, 30-35 TDs, and less than 13 INTs.

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10. Randy Moss- WR- New England Patriots

When Randy Moss is a beast when healthy. Last year after seperating his shoulder, he went on to average 90 yds and 1 TD a game in the final 10 weeks of the season. That’s all I have to say.

11. Aaron Rodgers- QB- Green Bay Packers

12. Larry Fitzgerald- WR- Arizona Cardinals

13. DeAngelo Williams- RB- Carolina Panthers

14.  Calvin Johnson- WR- Detroit Lions

15. Reggie Wayne- WR- Indianapolis Colts

16. Rashard Mendenhall- RB- Pittsburgh Steelers

17. Brandon Marshall- WR- Miami Dolphins

18. Peyton Manning- QB- Indianapolis Colts

19. Knowshon Moreno- RB- Denver Broncos

20. Ryan Grant- RB- Green Bay Packers

21. Miles Austin- WR- Dallas Cowboys

22. Roddy White-WR- Atlanta Falcons

23. Tom Brady- QB- New England Patriots

24. Beanie Wells- RB- Arizona Cardinals

25. Shonn Greene- RB- New York Jets

26. Jamaal Charles- RB- Kansas City Chiefs

27. Cedric Benson- RB- Cincinnati Bengals

28. Greg Jennings- WR- Green Bay Packers

29. Ryan Matthews-RB- San Diego Chargers

30. Steve Smith- WR- Carolina Panthers

31. DeSean Jackson- WR- Philadelphia Eagles

32. Marques Colston- WR- New Orleans Saints

33. Matt Forte- RB- Chicago Bears

34. LeSean McCoy- RB- Philadelphia Eagles

35. Phillip Rivers- QB- San Diego Chargers

36. Anquan Boldin- WR- Baltimore Ravens

37. Matt Schaub- QB- Houston Texans

38. Sidney Rice- WR- Minnesota Vikings

39. Jonathan Stewart-RB- Carolina Panthers

40. Pierre Thomas- RB- New Orleans Saints

41. Dallas Clark- TE- Indianapolis Colts

42. Antonio Gates- TE- San Diego Chargers

43. Tony Romo- QB- Dallas Cowboys

44. Chad Ochocinco- WR- Cincinnati Bengals

45. Vernon Davis- San Francisco 49ers

46. Michael Crabtree- WR- San Francisco 49ers

47. Ronnie Brown- RB- Miami Dolphins

48. Dwayne Bowe- WR- Kansas City Chiefs

49. Ricky Williams- RB- Miami Dolphins

50. Joseph Addai- RB- Indianpolis Colts

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With the NFL season right around the corner, one big-name free agent is still left on the market—Terrell Owens.  Owens has been in desperation mode trying to find a team that he could take his talents to. Only problem is, no team is willing to bite in the fear of TO tearing apart their locker room. Owens has been rejected by the Seahawks, the Redskins, the Raiders, and the Titans. The question still remains, does TO still got it? Owens certainly thinks so, “I feel like I have enough talent to be a starter on any team…That’s what’s so frustrating.”

TO is 36 years old, and will be 37 in December, a number that is working against him. Most wide-receivers that age are out of the league or towards the end of their careers. Owens’ numbers last season did not help his case either. He only had 55 receptions, 829 yards with 5 TDs last season, his lowest numbers for a full season since his rookie year with the 49ers. In Owens’ defense, the Bills organization went through some major problems last year. Dick Jauron started as the head coach but was fired and replaced by Perry Fewell. Starting QB Trent Edwards went down with an injury and was replaced by Ryan Fitzpatrick and Brian Brohm. The Bills started the season with a no-huddle offense which was a terrible idea because the offense was never developed to run such a high quality and difficult system. Owens only had one game in week 9 with over 5 receptions, which was also his only game with 100+ yards. His abilities were not used to their full capability and this was a major reason why they finished with a 6-10 record.

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The biggest concern with Owens is his personality and attitude. He is a liability on any roster to blow up like a time bomb. He has caused some problem on every roster he has been on. When on the 49ers in 1999, his arrogance began in a game against the Atlanta Falcons. He caught a long touchdown pass and did the Falcon’s signature “dirty bird” dance in the end zone. He also celebrated on the Cowboy’s star, went into a row of cheerleaders and started dancing with their pom-poms, and the infamous sharpie-in-the-sock incident on Monday Night Football in front of a national audience. In 2004, Owens joined the Eagles and the controversy followed. After badly losing to division rival Dallas Cowboys, Owens was pictured wearing a Cowboy legend, Michael Irvin throwback jersey on their flight home. He also said that the Eagles would be undefeated if Brett Favre was the quarterback instead of Donovan McNabb. These media jabs continued all the way to the Super Bowl between the QB and receiver. Owens then signed with the Cowboys and had problems under Bill Parcells system, who was a known disciplinarian. Owens then tried showing his emotional side by crying in defense of his quarterback Tony Romo in a press conference after a playoff loss, sobbing, “That’s my quarterback man.” The fact was, wherever Owens went, drama followed. He made his own reputation of being a cocky, arrogant, and selfish player. This is the same reputation which is giving him his troubles in free agency.

With that said, I think Owens has the possibility to still resurrect his career. Another great wide receiver, Randy Moss, went through a similar time with his stint with the Oakland Raiders. Moss had some of his worst career numbers in his two years in Oakland, but saved his career when he signed with the New England Patriots. In 2006, Moss had a career low three touchdowns with the Raiders, but answered with a career-high 23 touchdowns in 2007 with the Patriots. If Owens is put in the right system, he can still help a team like Moss was able to. I think he has lost a step down field due to age, but would make a great second-option receiver. The problem with that is Owens will never agree to a role where he is not the first option. At this point in his career, Owens must realize that to be successful he must pipe down his own ego and swallow his pride.

Through 14 seasons, Owens has 147 total touchdowns (144 receiving), 14,951 receiving yards, 1,006 receptions, 251 rushing yards, and 3 rushing touchdowns. TO has had nine 1,000 yard seasons, including five consecutive (2000–2004). He’s third in receiving touchdowns behind Jerry Rice and Randy Moss. He’s also third in receiving yards behind Jerry Rice and Isaac Bruce.  Owens is one of the best wide-receivers in history and I believe still has the ability to help a roster out. It all comes down to Owens’ arrogance. This is more of a personal battle for TO than it is about his skill. If he is willing to fit into a system and be a second option, he has a chance to be on a roster this fall. It’s time for Terrell Owens to forget about his VH1 reality show “The TO Show,” and focus on his real career—football. Without football, Terrell Owens is nothing, and it is about time TO realizes this.

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Vince Young and Matt Leinart came into the NFL in 2006 on top of the world. Both were entering the NFL Draft after impressive college careers. Matt Leinart came from west-coast powerhouse USC. He had a storybook career. He won the Heisman Trophy 2004 and the BCS National Championship in 2004 versus the Oaklahoma Sooners. He had the oppotunity to learn the game from mastermind Pete Carol; and played alongside great teammates such as 2005 Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush (an award he returned today), goal line beast LenDale White, and talented receiver Steve Smith. Leinart finished his college career at USC with a 37-2 record as a starter, 10,693 yards, 99 touchdowns, and just 23 interceptions. He is USC’s all-time leader in career touchdown passes and completion percentage. Meanwhile, Vince Young was building his own college legacy in the south at the University of Texas. He became known as one of the most explosive players in the country with a 6′ 4″ 229 pound freak-of-nature body frame, and he was compared to Michael Vick with his great ability to rush. Young played on a more blue collar, defensive-minded team that included future NFL players such as Rodrique Wright and Aaron Ross.  In 2005 Young led Texas with an All-American performance and finished the season with an 11-0 regular season record and #2 BCS ranking.

This all lead up to the match-up that everyone had dreamed for. The top two teams in the nation meeting up at the Rose Bowl for the BCS National Championship. Even though USC was the favorite coming into the match-up led by their two Heismans, Young had different plans. His nine yard TD scramble with 19 seconds left in the game to win is one of the greatest college football plays of all time, exclaimed by Young striking the Heisman Trophy pose in the end zone. This play capped the end to two great college football careers for both Young and Leinart; now all eyes were on the NFL draft which seemed to be a promising one filled with great talent.

Vince Young was picked with the 3rd overall pick by the Tennessee Titans, and Matt Leinart followed later at the 10th overall pick by the Arizona Cardinals. Expectations from both quarterbacks were at an all-time high. Both were drafted by teams that were in a bad need of a quarterback, and fans of both organizations embraced the two. This would be a little different from their college careers though. This time, both Young and Leinart were put in a situation that was not a winning team. They were no longer surrounded by teammates who were the best at their positions. This time their leadership would be challenged, and their college careers were soon to be a faint memory.

Vince Young started his campaign in Tennessee without disappointment. Young finished with an 8-5 record as a starter and led all rookie quarterbacks from the class of 2006. He had a streak of six straight wins, with four 4th quarter comebacks. Although his passer rating was 66.7 which was ranked 30th out of 31, Young knew how to lead his team to wins. He was chosen to replace Philip Rivers for his first Pro Bowl appearance. In the 2007 season, Vince Young battled to get his team in the playoffs.

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He was slowed down in week 6 with a quadricep injury and caused him to miss the next week as well. Young finished with 2,459 passing yards with nine passing touchdowns and 17 picks, and also finsihed with 395 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. Young reached his first playoff game, which was a huge accomplishment. In 2008, Young suffered a knee injury in the first game. Jeff Fisher made the decision to make veteran Kerry Collins the QB for the rest of the season. On September 9, 2008, Young left his home without his cell phone. Later it was found that Young was upset over being booed by fans after throwing a second pick and spraining a medial collateral ligament. Many believe Young suffered from depression, and he had mentioned suicide before. He had left his home with a gun, which prompted the Titans to call the police, which made headlines throughout the country. In 2009, Fisher decided to remain with Collins as the starter, and claimed that Vince would have to “earn his job back.” After a 0-6 start, Fisher decided to replace Collins with Young. Young led the team after that with an 8-2 record and was named the Sporting News comeback player of the year. He was nominated to the 2010 Pro Bowl once again replacing injured Philip Rivers.

Leinart started his career in Arizona with a hiccup. He was unable to come up with a deal that he was satisfied with. Leinart wanted the kind of money that Young was getting, but this would be hard to accomplish being picked seven picks later. He was the last player in the draft to sign a contract, with his 6-year $51 million deal. Leinart suffered a sprain left shoulder in week 16 of his rookie campaign and ended the year with a 4-7 record in 11 starts for 2,457 yards and 11 touchdowns. The record was disappointing to Cardinals fans who were expecting a bigger impact from Matt. In 2007, Leinart had his struggles, and coach Ken Whisenhunt began using veteran backup Kurt Warner in many games. Warner was designed to be on the team to help Leinart and build him into a star QB. In that season though, Leinart suffered a season-ending fractured collar bone and was replaced by Kurt Warner as the starter. Kurt Warner became a pleasant surprise for the Cardinals who resurrected his career by leading the Cards to one of the best Super Bowls in history in 2008. Warner remained the starter in 2009 and took the Cards deep into the playoffs again. Finally, Warner ended his storied career after the 2009 playoffs, and the lime light was once again placed on Matt Leinart when he was named the starter again.

Now as the 2010 NFL season approaches, the spotlight is back on both Leinart and Young to lead their teams again. This may possibly be their last chance to lead their respective teams. Both teams are expected to make a playoff run, and both quarterbacks have weapons to help them. Leinart has a great receiving core headlined by Larry Fitzgerald and Steve Breaston. Vince Young has the league-leading rusher on his team–Chris Johnson. The quarterback position is possibly the hardest and most criticized position to play in any sport. A teams fate rests on the shoulders of the quarterback, the QB is the heart and the leader of the team. Although Young has proven that he has the potential to be a good quarterback in the NFL, he has had many ups and downs, and consistency has always been a question. He has always been known as a better rushing quarterback than a passing quarterback, but to win, Young will need to pass the ball effectively. Leinart on the other hand, has not shown much in his four years in the league. He is on the verge of being labeled a “bust”, only a successful season can save him. Expectations are running very high in both Arizona and Tennessee. Can these quarterbacks lead their teams to glory like they had in the past with their college teams? Only time will tell…

Alex Smith is now entering his 6th season with the San Francisco 49ers and this may be his most important season yet. Smith is entering the final year of his current contract and will be a free agent after the upcoming season.  This is his last shot to live up to those expectations of a #1 draft pick from the 2005 NFL draft.  And with what looks like to be a promising and exciting young 49ers offense, Smith for the first time will be in position to succeed.

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Alex Smith came into his rookie season the official starter for the San Francisco 49ers. With Alex Smith at the helm, offensive coordinator Mike McCarthy (Yes, the current Green Bay Packer head coach who left SF for GB after the 2005 season to coach Brett Favre and current starter Aaron Rodgers who was the #24 overall pick in the same 2005 NFL draft) looked to have his dream QB that would leave theses 49ers back into playoff and Super Bowl contention.  However, there was only one problem; the 49ers lacked an offensive line and competent receivers.  There was no way Alex Smith could survive in this offense, more help was needed.

Smith came into the 2006 season with a new offensive coordinator in Norv Turner and a rookie tight end in Vernon Davis.  While the 49ers made strides and Smith showed just what he could do, they finished the season at 7-9 and missed the playoffs once again.  In 2007, Smith had his 3rd offensive coordinator in 3 years, this time it was Jim Hostler.  The 49ers started well but Alex Smith suffered a serious arm injury in a game against the Seattle Seahawks.  He was unable to finish out the 2007 season and sat out all of 2008 due to a broken bone in his arm.

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This brings us to the 2009 season.   The 49ers were ready to release Smith after the 2008 season, but Smith was able to renegotiate his deal and take a heavy pay cut to have one more chance with the only NFL franchise he’s ever known.  While Smith lost the starting job to Shaun Hill, by week 7 Coach Mike Singletary realized the 49ers had done as well as they could with Shaun Hill and it was time to bring Alex Smith back into the starting role.  In week 7 with the 49ers down 21-0 at the half versus the Houston Texans, Alex Smith was brought into the game and he was ready to showcase his talent.  Smith went 15-22 for 206 yards 3 TDs and and 1 INT (on a deep pass with 0:03 sec left in the game).  The 49ers were not able to come back and win this game but they definitely made it interesting as they lost to the Texans 24-21. Smith was able to build on this game and went on to start he final 10 games of the season.  As the stater Smith finished with a 5-5 record while throwing for 2350 yards 18 TDs and 12 INTs.

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While 2009 was the best year of his career, Alex Smith still has a few things to prove.  In 2009 he seemed to be amazing while in the shotgun, but really struggled when he was down, under center.  In order to maximize Frank Gore’s effectiveness Smith must show that he can operate well from under the center just as well as he performed in shotgun.  This is the first time in Smith’s career that he has had the same offensive coordinator for back-to-back seasons.  While Jimmy Raye is not an offensive mastermind, the continuity will do nothing but help Alex Smith.  Smith also has the most potent offense he’s had in his career.  Vernon Davis is coming off an All-Pro season, Frank Gore is back, and Michael Crabtree will have a full off season and training camp to develop chemistry with Smith as well.  Smith has shown glimpses of brilliance throughout his career, but he has failed to be consistent.  He definitely has the talent, the arm, the mobility, but its now time to bring it all together.  His teammates have noticed a new, re-energized Alex Smith who is now a confident  offensive leader.  In this contract year, Alex Smith must come out firing and take the reins of this offense and lead this 49er team to the playoffs, otherwise he may be looking for a new job next year and the “bust” label will be official.

It’s that time of the year again.  It’s time for fantasy football.  Since many drafts are in August, I feel that it’s the time to do a little preview of the year to come.  First off are my sleeper picks on the year.  Now don’t get mad at me when these players put on an amazing year but you didn’t listen to me and didn’t pick them up.

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Chad Henne- QB- Miami Dolphins

Henne is now the full-time starter in Miami and he showed flashes of fantasy stud last year.  This includes his 29-52, 335 yds, 2 TDs, 1 INT performance in the 22-21 victory over the Patriots.  Now with Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams both fully healthy and not to mention Brandon Marshall (the only play other than Wes Welker to have 3 straight 100 reception and 1000 yard seasons) the Dolphins offense should have no problems.  The passing game is improved with Marshall as a legitimate #1 option and Devone Bess settling into the #2 receiver role.  Definitely look for Henne’s TD totals to increase by at least 50% (12 last year to probably 18 or 20 this year).  While I wouldn’t take him over the upper echelon QBs in Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, or Drew Brees, Henne should prove to be a solid QB that gets his points.

Justin Forsett- RB- Seattle Seahawks

When given 10 or more carries a game last season, Forsett put up monster fantasy numbers.  And as the best possible option at RB, the Seahawks have to give him a long, hard look as their starting RB despite the addition of Leon Washington.  Forsett should be able to build off last season’s success and be the best RB option in Seattle since Shaun Alexander’s MVP season.  If given the opportunity, Forsett should be able to gain over 1000 yards and right around 10 rushing TDs.

Jay Cutler/Devin Aromashadu/Earl Bennett/Greg Olson- Chicago Bears

This sleeper pick is based solely on Mike Martz and his offensive strategy.  I’ll let the statistics do the talking.  As the offensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions in 2006 and 2007, the Mike Martz pass happy offense allowed Jon Kitna to throw for over 4000 yds in each season and 39 TDs combined (21 in 2006 and 18 in 2007).  As the offensive coordinator in San Francisco in 2008 Mike Martz was able to even put up solid passing stats with the 49ers anemic passing attack.  Between the 2 starters for the season (J.T. O’Sullivan and Shaun Hill) the 49ers QBs threw for 3700 yards and 21 TDs.  Now with an All- Pro QB in Jay Cutler, expect the passing yards and touchdowns to increase from Cutler’s 2009 season ( 3600 yards and 27 touchdowns).  Expect Cutler to rebound from a disappointing year and expect him to bring his wide receivers along with him.

Kenny Britt- WR- Tennessee Titans

Britt had a solid rookie season with 701 yards and 3 touchdowns.  But with the QB switch from Kerry Collins to Vince Young mid season, those numbers are just a little more impressive.  He has established himself as a solid option for Vince Young and look for a 1000 yard season from Kenny Britt.  His touchdown count may also increase to about 8 or 9.  With a whole training camp to get on track with Vince Young, those numbers shouldn’t be hard to achieve by Britt.

Devin Thomas- WR- Washington Redskins

The typical breakout season for a NFL wide receiver is season 3.  Thomas is entering his third season but thats not the only reason he could potentially have a solid year statistically.  With Donovan McNabb at the helm, the Redskins passing attack should really improve and McNabb has been known to spread the ball to all his receivers.  Throughout his career McNabb has made his receivers viable fantasy players and he should continue to do so in Washington.  And with Mike Shanahan’s great offensive mind, it only makes it easier on Thomas to break out for a great fantasy season.

Matt Moore- QB- Carolina Panthers

In Moore’s last 4 starts of 2009 he threw for 800+ yds, 8 TDs, and 0 INTs.  He will look to build on that this season as he comes into this season as the starter.  Moore still has Steve Smith and  great running backs who can catch out of the backfield in Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams.  Expect Moore to put up around 3300-3700 yards and 20-25 TDs with 10-12 picks, a solid stat line for quarterback.

No doubt about it, Brett Favre is one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL History.  I know Favre says all the right things and he represents a blue-collar player that many of Americans enjoy rooting for.  But his actions speak louder than his words.  I have always been a fan of Favre on the field, but his antics off it are starting to really annoy me.

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It seems like every year there is the Favre debate.  While he come back or will he finally call it quits? While Favre mostly stays quiet and only comments with only the “I’m discussing it with my family” line his actions always seem to imply otherwise.  If Favre wants the extra time to rest his 40 year old body why doesn’t he just say it.  Everyone else in the country already knows he wants to skip the majority of training camp and come in fresh for the season, so why string it along Brett?  Why not be upfront and honest with your organization and your fan base.  While you say you may be ready to hang them up, we know that you will not end your career with an interception as your last play.  Just please do not think we are stupid and can’t see through your words right to your actions.

No one questions Brett Favre’s heart, he has always given it his all and left everything on the field.  But his dedication to his teammates needs to be addressed.  I know some players have been vocal about this issue and have stated that they don’t mind Favre sitting out and that they are willing to wait for him to make his decision.  But I just feel that there are other players who feel the opposite.  If I was busting my butt during camp and my quarterback was taking it easy, not even making an appearance at camp, I would be a little peeved when he gets the starting job to start the season (even if he is a football legend).  Brett Favre needs to show his teammates the respect they show him.

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Favre’s actions have already landed him in hot water before and the incident in Green Bay really tarnished his reputation.  Now there is no telling if Favre really had a change of heart during the middle of training camp that year, but he needs to realize that he can’t toy with a franchise in that manner.  While I don’t agree with GM Ted Thompson’s handling of the issue Favre is equally at blame and I’m surprised he has not yet learned from it yet.  Year in and year out he continues to string along different franchises only to come back. We all love watching Favre’s child-like exuberance and magical plays on the field.  But his off the field actions are starting to gain more notoriety and people will one day remember Favre for his play on the field as well as his antics off it.

Brett, it’s time for you to announce your decision before training camp.  I understand if you don’t want to put your body through extra physical activities, but your presence at training camp would be really appreciated by your teammates and your fans.  It would show to everyone that you are not above the game and that you really are that blue-collared player from Mississippi that we all grew to love.

Reports say that the NFL has decided to suspend San Diego Chargers’ wide receiver, Vincent Jackson, for 3 games next season. This comes after he violated the NFL’s personal conduct policy by receiving another DUI charge. Not only does he have the suspension issue, but he is also threatening to hold out until he gets traded. Two teams that are interested in Jackson are the Seattle Seahawks and the Washington Redskins. It may be my San Diego bias, but I think this is a horrible decision for Jackson.

The San Diego Chargers have one of the top 5 quarterbacks in the league in Phillip Rivers and that guy can throw those deep balls. Does Jackson really want to go to a team with aging quarterbacks? Donovan McNabb is still a quality talent, but neither he or Matt Hasselbeck can compare to Phillip Rivers. If I was Jackson, the only places I would like to be traded to are the New Orleans Saints, Green Bay Packers and the Indianapolis Colts. But why change teams when you are on a title competing team and have a great quarterback throwing to you.

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If Vincent Jackson truly believes that he can get paid more than Brandon Marshall, then he is a fool. Jackson is a great wide receiver but he is no Brandon Marshall, not yet at least. Not only does he not deserve Marshall money but this guy has so many off-the-field issues. This recent suspension is for his SECOND DUI. He also makes some very cocky, on-field mistakes that at times are costly for the team. Vincent Jackson needs to get it together. He needs to get his head out of the clouds and he needs to resign with the San Diego Chargers.

Written by AP:

The New England Patriots have been a power house over the past decade, led by golden boy Tom Brady, but is this relationship nearing its end? Last year Brady returned from his injury but unfortunately the Patriots were knocked out of the playoffs by the Baltimore Ravens in the wild card game. Now  the 2010 season is just around the corner but there seems to be some relationship issues with Brady and the New England Patriots. Brady is entering the final year of the contract and he, as well as most people, were expecting an extension. Unfortunately there seems to have been no talk so far between both camps and now Brady must play the waiting game.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=chadiha_jeffri&id=3165003

This to me is an idiotic move on the Patriots behalf. Not only do they not have a backup QB to take the reigns but they may not even be the best team in their division. Of course it seems as if the Patriots can just plug in any old quarterback and be fine. Matt Cassel filled in well for Brady 2 seasons ago, and technically, Brady was just a fill in for Drew Bledsoe. The real question is whether this is the right time to be screwing around with your franchise player. The Patriots have lost a vast amount of their older key players from their Super Bowl teams and have been criticized for their lack of leadership and defense. Also right behind them are the New York Jets, who this off season have bolstered their roster with the signing of Tomlinson, Cromartie and Jason Taylor. The Jets may just be the best team in the division, let alone maybe the best in the whole conference (of course I am always going to believe that the best in the AFC are the San Diego Chargers). Either way, the point is that the Patriots need to stop goofing around and extend the contract of their best player. Without him they have no chance, plain and simple…get him signed!

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Written By AP:

So the big story today has to do with…Brett Favre of course! Not only did he say that if Southern Miss makes the CWS that he would return to the Vikings but now there is a report that Favre had ankle surgery. Is this any indication that he is planning on a return? Honestly, it was obvious last year that he can still play. If Favre does not return then the Vikings can pretty much say bye bye to their season because neither Tarvaris Jackson nor Sage Rosenfels can play good enough football to help the Vikings get to the playoffs. And yes Adrian Peterson is good, but I’ve never been a huge fan of his and really do not think he is worth all the hype. Even with a great defense and a top 3 running back, Minnesota stands no chance in a division with the Green Bay Packers.

As for my Chargers, they need to figure out a deal with Shawn Merriman. A.J. Smith did meet with David Dunn, Merriman’s agent, today and hopefully they can work something out very soon. Even after his injury, Merriman is still a vital aspect of the Charger team and they would be idiotic to let him go. I was okay with getting rid of Cromartie but still believed that Tomlinson could be an effective back. Looking at the numbers, LT had a higher yards per carry average than Sproles and Bennet. What does this tell you? Maybe it wasn’t him, maybe it was our offensive line or Norv Turner’s scheme. I mean ever since Norv agreed to let go of Lorenzo Neal, things have been going down hill for our running game. Then again, this did allow Rivers to become a beast.