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July 31, 2010

Jason Pierre-Paul signs five-year contract

The New York Giants have signed rookie defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul, their first-round draft pick (15th overall), to a five-year contract worth $20+ million, per Ralph Vacchiano of the NY Daily News.

Out of the $20,050,000, the guaranteed portion of the contract is $11,629,807.

Houston's Brian Cushing, the 15th overall pick in 2009, received a five-year contract worth $14 million with $10.435 million guaranteed and a maximum value of $18 million.

With the Pierre-Paul signing, there are currently 11 unsigned first-round draft picks.

As pointed out by Evan Silva of Pro Football Talk, Pierre-Paul is a freakish (and acrobatic) athlete with tons of upside.

Broncos, Demaryius Thomas agree to five-year contract

Denver has now signed all of the rookies in their 2010 draft class.

Per Lindsay Jones of the Denver Post, the Broncos have agreed to terms with wide receiver Demaryius Thomas, the first of their two first-round picks, on a five-year contract worth $12.155 million. According to Jones, the guaranteed amount is $9.35 million while the maximum amount could reach $15.5 million.

Despite missing the rookie practices during training camp, Thomas will report in time for the team's first practice with rookies and veterans (Sunday at 8:45 a.m.).

Thomas, who was the first receiver drafted, had 46 receptions for 1,154 yards (25.1 yards per catch) and eight touchdowns as a junior at Georgia Tech, which runs a flexbone option offense. In other words, it could take a bit of time for Thomas to become acclimated to a pro-style system.

That said, there are similarities between Thomas and Detroit's Calvin Johnson due to attending the same alma mater and their size/speed combinations. Thomas is 6-foot-3, 229 pounds and has run a sub-4.4 forty.

Here's our poll/forum thread on which rookie receiver will finish with more receiving yards: Thomas or Dez Bryant, who has since suffered a high-ankle sprain?

July 30, 2010

Redskins sign Trent Williams

The Washington Redskins have signed offensive tackle Trent Williams, the fourth-overall pick in this year's draft, and he will report to the team's practice today, per Jason Reid of the Washington Post (via Pro Football Talk).

"We just got the deal done in the last couple of hours," said agent Vincent Taylor, who negotiated the deal along with Ben Dogra (per Reid). "There are just a couple of things we have to still work out, a few details to work out, but Trent plans to be there [at Redskins Park] to sign it and get going."

Before Williams reached a deal with the Redskins early this morning, the highest draft pick to sign was Oakland's Rolando McClain, who was the eighth-overall pick in the draft.

According to Reid, Williams will start at left tackle and the team will now shift their focus to working out a long-term deal for the man Williams will protect.

July 29, 2010

Raiders sign first-rounder McClain

The Oakland Raiders have signed linebacker Rolando McClain, their first-round pick and the eighth overall selection of the 2010 NFL Draft.

By signing McClain, the Raiders will open training camp in Napa (CA) with all of their rookies under contract.

Last year, McClain won the Butkus Award, which is given to college football's top linebacker, and helped to lead the Alabama Crimson Tide to a BCS Championship.

After the draft, R.J. White of NFL FanHouse gave the Raiders an "A" for their selection of McClain in the first round over the workout warriors they typically draft.

Many mock drafts had projected the Raiders selecting offensive tackle Bruce Campbell at that spot. Instead the Raiders waited and selected Campbell in the fourth round.

McClain becomes the third first-rounder to signed. The first two were Dez Bryant of Dallas and Devin McCourty of New England.

July 19, 2010

Chris Johnson to get more (of his) money earlier

One of the biggest issues of the 2010 NFL off-season has been resolved. At least, temporarily.

Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson will earn more than the $550,000 he was scheduled to earn in 2010 as Johnson and the Titans have agreed to move up some escalators in his contract, according to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.

According to ESPN, it is believed that Johnson will earn $2.5 million this season with no additional years added to his original five-year contract.

Johnson, who set the single-season NFL record for yards from scrimmage (2,509), became only the sixth player to rush for more than 2,000 yards and only Eric Dickerson and Edgerrin James have rushed for more yards in their first two seasons.

In most fantasy leagues, Johnson will be the first overall draft pick and he ranks first in our Top 150 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet rankings.

July 18, 2010

Donovan McNabb about to host "Hell Week"

Washington Redskins new quarterback Donovan McNabb speaks to the media after being introduced by head coach Mike Shanahan (L), at a press conference at Redskins Park in Ashburn, Virginia on April 6, 2010. The Philadelphia Eagles traded McNabb to the Washington Redskins for a pair of draft picks in the upcoming NFL draft. UPI/Kevin Dietsch Photo via Newscom

Beginning Monday morning, Redskins quarterback Donovan McNabb will host what he has dubbed "Hell Week" in Arizona, per Rick Maese of The Washington Post.

With 11 days to go until the Redskins report for training camp on July 29th, McNabb will work with the team's receivers, tight ends and running backs in order to get a head start in their preparation for the upcoming season.

"I think it's important for the specialists on the offense to have that chemistry, to have that bond," McNabb says, "where they can trust me and I can trust them."

Redskins wide receiver Devin Thomas shares McNabb's sentiment.

Thomas said, "It's a great time to build that chemistry without the coaches being there. You just get a little of that extra bonding time to lead into training camp."

McNabb's trainer, Brett Fischer, says his Redskins' teammates are in for "an eye opener."

"I think it's an eye opener for them, comparing themselves with their quarterback, with how hard he's working out here. To me, it's him telling them, 'Hey, I'm taking this thing seriously to the next level. Let's go to the next level.'"

It's always beneficial when an offense puts in extra time to develop their chemistry and rapport on a voluntary basis like this. It's even more important when the team has a new quarterback.

McNabb, who is my 11th-ranked quarterback for fantasy football, threw for 3,553 yards and 22 touchdowns in 14 games last year.

July 12, 2010

Ray Rice feels like he's "underrated"

If you play fantasy football (and who doesn't?), Ravens running back Ray Rice isn't the first name that pops into your head when you think of underrated players. In fact, he's probably not the second, or third, or fiftieth.

That said, Rice is out to prove that last year wasn't a fluke.

I still feel like I’m a guy that is underrated,” said Rice in a Monday-morning appearance on ESPN’s First Take, per Mike Duffy of the team's website. ”My plan is to go out there and prove it all over again, that this wasn’t just a one-year thing.”

Last year, only Tennessee's Chris Johnson (who set the NFL single-season record) had more yards from scrimmage than Rice, who finished with 2,041 total yards. In 2010, he's shooting for 2,042+.

“My personal goal is to do more than I did last year as far as total yards, but the overall goal is to win,” he said.

One of the players Rice expects to help open up opportunities for him is new receiver Anquan Boldin.

“He’s going to open up the offense for us, especially for me,” Rice said of Boldin. ”He’s a great blocker down the field, and that’s one of the things that breaks long runs. He can handle the corners and the safeties. Not only can he run and catch, but he can do it all.”

Rice is a consensus top-four pick in fantasy football drafts this year.

July 10, 2010

Joe Flacco has instant chemistry with new receivers

FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 10: Joe Flacco #5 of the Baltimore Ravens reacts after Ray Rice scored a 1-yard touchdown in the first quarter against the New England Patriots during the 2010 AFC wild-card playoff game at Gillette Stadium on January 10, 2010 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)

In his sophomore season, Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco limped to the finish line with nagging injuries. The difference between his first half (2,044 yards, 12 TDs) and his second half (1,569 yards, nine TDs) illustrates that.

Even so, his full season numbers of 3,613 yards and 21 touchdowns were solid, especially on a run-first team that had Mark Clayton as their second-best option at wide receiver.

This off-season, the Ravens have been universally plauded for the additions they've made via trades (Anquan Boldin), free agency (Donte' Stallworth) and the NFL Draft (David Reed and tight ends Ed Dickson and Dennis Pitta) to bolster the passing attack.

Meanwhile, Flacco has developed an instant chemistry and rapport with the new receivers, according to offensive coordinator Cam Cameron.

“Probably the most impressive thing Joe was able to do was adapt to Anquan, Donte’ and the two rookie tight ends as quickly as he did,” Cameron told Mike Duffy of the team's website. “You would have felt those four guys had been around each other for at least a couple of years, and they came right off the street. That always tells you something about a guy.”

In my updated fantasy rankings, Flacco ranks ninth on my list of fantasy quarterbacks and 64th overall in our top 150 cheat sheet.

July 08, 2010

Sidney Rice: "I'll be ready to go at camp"

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Sidney Rice (L) and quarterback Brett Favre celebrate after Favre threw a 45-yard touchdown pass to Rice during the fourth quarter of their NFC Divisional Playoff against teh Dallas Cowboys at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis on January 17, 2010. The Vikings won 34-3. UPI/Brian Kersey

Today Vikings wide receiver Sidney Rice was a no-show at the camp held at the University of Minnesota by Cardinals receiver Larry Fitzgerald and former receiver Cris Carter, according to Chip Scoggins of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.

And Carter was none too pleased about it as he said, "Sidney is not here so I guarantee he’s not getting no better today."

In turn, Drew Rosenhaus, Rice's agent, tweeted that Rice missed the camp due a lingering hip injury.

"Sidney does not anticipate that this injury will require surgery and he's hopeful that he will be fully healthy for the start of the season," Rosenhaus said in a second tweet (via Judd Zulgad of the Star-Tribune).

Rice told Scoggins over the phone, however, that "everything is alright. I'll be ready to go at camp."

"It's not bad," he said, per Scoggins. "Just being cautious with it. I can run. I'm jogging and sprinting. I'm just not doing a lot of cutting and different things like that. The doctors feel this is the best thing."

Last year, Rice finished with 83 receptions for 1,312 yards and eight touchdowns. In two post-season games, Rice had ten receptions for 184 yards and four touchdowns.

In our fantasy football rankings updated yesterday, Rice was the ninth receiver on our list.

Bobby Engram reunites with Mike Holmgren

When receiver Bobby Engram had his career season (94-1147-6) in 2007, his head coach was Mike Holmgren.

Holmgren, who is now team president of the Cleveland Browns, will be reunited with Engram as the veteran receiver signed with Cleveland today.

But it remains to be seen whether or not Engram will be on the team's 53-man roster at the end of training camp.

Last year, Engram had only five receptions for 61 yards in five games for Kansas City, who released him in November.

Over the past four years excluding his career year (2007), Engram has played in only 25 games. He had a total of 76 receptions for 840 yards and one touchdown in those 25 games.

Engram's reunion with Holmgren could very easily be short-lived although the Browns are not exactly loaded at the receiver position.

July 07, 2010

(Updated) 2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Tight Ends (TEs)

The NFL pre-season gets underway a month from Thursday (Hall of Fame game between Cowboys and Bengals).

Over the next month, we will release our rankings keeper rankings, point-per-reception (PPR) rankings and our top 150 cheat sheets as well as in-depth player analysis and projections. For now, here is our updated list of the top 20 tight ends for fantasy football:

1. Antonio Gates, Chargers: Despite only ranking sixth among tight ends in targets (114), Gates led tight ends -- and set a career-high -- in receiving yards (1,157) in 2009. With the three-game suspension (and potential holdout beyond that) of Vincent Jackson, Gates should see more targets in 2010. Therefore, I swapped Gates and Dallas Clark in the updated rankings.

2. Dallas Clark, Colts: What's not to like? With a line of 100-1106-10, Clark ranked first in receptions, second in yards and third in touchdowns among tight ends.

3. Vernon Davis, 49ers: The wait is over. Davis finally broke out. Last year's numbers (78-965-13) were essentially better than his two previous seasons combined (83-867-6).

4. Brent Celek, Eagles: Two of Celek's three 100-yard games came in the only two in which Kevin Kolb started. It's hard to not picture an even better season than what he produced in his breakout campaign (76-971-8).

Green Bay Packers tight end Jermichael Finley leaps into the stands after scoring a touchdown on a 19-yard reception against the Baltimore Ravens during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin on December 7, 2009. The Packers won 27-14. UPI/Brian Kersey Photo via Newscom

5. Jermichael Finley, Packers: In his final eight games (including the Packers' post-season game), Finley finished with 44 receptions for 575 yards and four touchdowns. Despite missing three games, Finley still finished in the top ten in receiving yards among TEs in his second (and breakout) season.

6. Jason Witten, Cowboys: Witten had a "down" year of 94 passes for 1,030 yards (and only two touchdowns). Many tight ends (or wide receivers) would love to have a "down" year like that. By drafting Dez Bryant in the first round, the Cowboys have another weapon competing for targets.

7. Owen Daniels, Texans: In an injury-shortened half-season, Daniels caught 40 passes for 519 yards and five touchdowns. His pace (80-1038-10) would have ranked him fourth in receptions, third in yards and tied for third in TDs among tight ends.

8. Kellen Winslow, Buccaneers: Considering the weakness of the Buccaneers' receiving corps, he's the only legitimate weapon in the Bucs' passing attack. Last year, Winslow ranked fourth among tight ends in targets (127).

9. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons: Arguably the greatest tight end ever. Gonzalez had more targets (135) than any other tight end and finished with 83 receptions for 867 yards and six touchdowns in 2009.

10. Visanthe Shiancoe, Vikings: Shiancoe has never surpassed 596 yards in one season, but he has been a touchdown machine over the past two seasons (18 TDs).

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11. Chris Cooley, Redskins: Cooley missed nine games last year due to a broken ankle, but he had 83 receptions for 849 yards in his last full season (2008).

12. Zach Miller, Raiders: Only seven TEs had more receiving yards than Miller (805) had in 2009. In his three seasons, his receptions (44 to 56 to 66) and yards (444 to 778 to 805) have increased every season. And Miller should benefit from having quarterback Jason Campbell, a huge upgrade over JaMarcus Russell.

13. Heath Miller, Steelers: Miller set career highs in receptions (76) and receiving yards (789) in 2009. How much will Ben Roethlisberger's suspension affect his production in 2010?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Tanard Jackson (R) hits Seattle Seahawks tight end John Carlson as he crosses the goal line in the seond quarter at Qwest Field in Seattle on December 20, 2009. Carlson caught a Hasselbeck pass for a 29-yard touchdown. The Buccaneers beat the Seahawks 24-7. (UPI /Jim Bryant) Photo via Newscom

14. John Carlson, Seahawks: Carlson has been respectable but not spectacular in his first two NFL seasons(55-627-5 and 51-574-7, respectively), but he enters 2010 with a four-game touchdown streak.

15. Dustin Keller, Jets: I expected Keller to have a breakout season in 2009, but 2010 could be his year as he had a highly productive 2009 post-season (12-181-3 in three games). Plus, Jets coach Rex Ryan expects Keller to "get more touchdowns" in 2010.

16. Greg Olsen, Bears: Typically, tight ends don't flourish in a Mike Martz offense. Olsen posted solid season totals (60-612-8) but he had less than 10 yards in four games.

17. Jeremy Shockey, Saints: In 26 games over two seasons as a Saint, Shockey has only 98 combined receptions for 1,052 yards and three touchdowns. In the Saints' get-the-ball-to-the-open guy offense, his average of 40.3 and 40.6 yards per game over the past two seasons are the two lowest of his eight-year career.

18. Kevin Boss, Giants: In the final three weeks of his season, Boss finished with 15 receptions for 176 yards and one touchdown. That was an average of 58.7 yards per game during that span. He had 391 yards in his first 12 games for an average of 32.6 ypg.

19. Brandon Pettigrew, Lions: Before suffering a season-ending ACL injury in week 12, Pettigrew had 15 receptions for 165 yards and two touchowns in his previous three games. That said, the addition of Tony Scheffler somewhat dims Pettigrew's outlook for the 2010 season.

20. Jermaine Gresham, Bengals: Gresham significantly upgrades the Bengals at the tight end position. In my rookie rankings, I had Gresham a notch ahead of New England's Rob Gronkowski.

Also, check out our other 2010 Fantasy Football rankings: Top 25 QBs | Top 40 RBs | Top 50 WRs

(Updated) 2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Wide Receivers (WRs)

The NFL pre-season gets underway a month from Thursday (Hall of Fame game between Cowboys and Bengals).

Over the next month, we will release our rankings keeper rankings, point-per-reception (PPR) rankings and our top 150 cheat sheets as well as in-depth player analysis and projections. For now, here is our updated list of the top 50 wide receivers for fantasy football:

1. Andre Johnson, Texans: For me, this is (still) a no-brainer. Johnson, who was the third overall pick in 2003, has posted back-to-back 100-reception, 1,500-yard seasons.

DETROIT, MI - SEPTEMBER 27:  Wide receiver Calvin Johnson #81 of the Detroit Lions celebrates with a fan as he walks off the field after the victory against the Washington Redsklns at Ford Field on September 27, 2009 in Detroit, Michigan. The Lions defeated the Redskins 19-14. (Photo by Scott Boehm/Getty Images)

2. Calvin Johnson, Lions: After a stellar sophomore campaign (78-1331-12), MegaTron battled nagging injuries in 2009 and even missed two games. Provided he stays healthy, the sky is the limit for this gifted athlete.

3. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals: Over the past three seasons, Fitzgerald has caught a combined 293 passes for 3,932 yards and 35 touchdowns. But it's an understatement to say Matt Leinart (or Derek Anderson) is a downgrade from Kurt Warner, who retired this off-season.

4. Randy Moss, Patriots: All five of his 100-yard games came in the first nine weeks and his attitude and motivation were questioned by some down the stretch. But he has scored 47 touchdowns over the past three seasons. It's hard to question that production.

5. Brandon Marshall, Dolphins: Marshall has had 100+ receptions and 1,100+ yards for three consecutive seasons. With a fat new contract, the random temper tantrum seems unlikely. For now.

6. Reggie Wayne, Colts: Only three players (two receivers) finished the season with at least 100 receptions, 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns. If you own Wayne, hope for a few Colts' early-season losses so Wayne plays more than a half in your fantasy championship game.

7. Roddy White, Falcons: Only Andre Johnson (171) had more targets than did White (165) in 2009. In the past three seasons, White has been consistent: 83, 88 and 85 receptions as well as 1,202, 1,382 and 1,153 yards, respectively. Even better, he set a career-high in TDs (11) in 2009.

8. Miles Austin, Cowboys: The list? Andre Johnson and Wes Welker. The topic? Receivers who had more yards than Austin in 2009. The addition of rookie Dez Bryant, who was drafted by the Cowboys in the first round, will take away some targets for Austin in 2010. If it's any consolation (more so for Austin in real life than for you as his fantasy owner), his new girlfriend is Kim Kardashian.

9. Sidney Rice, Vikings: A waiver-wire pick-up for many last year, Rice had more receiving yards than all but three receivers in 2009. Assuming a Favre return, Rice should have another monster season in 2010.

10. DeSean Jackson, Eagles: Despite his size, Jackson is one of most explosive big-play receivers in the league. He ranked second in yards (18.5) per reception and first in the league in receptions of 40 yards or more (10).

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11. Greg Jennings, Packers: From weeks 4-14, Jennings had only one 100-yard game. In his final four games (counting playoffs), Jennings had three 100-yard games.

12. Marques Colston, Saints: Colston is the best receiver in the league's most explosive offense (31.9 points and 403.8 yards per game). Quarterback Drew Brees spreads the ball around, however, as Colston had less than five receptions in half of his games, which can easily frustrate a fantasy owner.

13. Anquan Boldin, Ravens: The physical receiver should be a perfect fit into his new offense as he settles in as the Ravens' No. 1 receiver.

NEW ORLEANS - AUGUST 14:  Wide receiver Chad Ochocinco #85 of the Cincinnati Bengals breaks free from cornerback Jason David #29 of the New Orleans Saints during a preseason game on August 14, 2009 at the Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

14. Chad Ochocinco, Bengals: Ochocinco bounced back in 2009 with 72 receptions for 1,047 yards and nine touchdowns. However, quarterback Carson Palmer threw for only 1,262 yards, seven TDs and six interceptions in the final eight games of 2010. Ochocinco's splits: 1st half (44-639-5) vs 2nd half (28-408-4). Coincidence?

15. Michael Crabtree, 49ers: Despite being the second receiver drafted in 2009, Crabtree led all rookies in receiving yards (56.8) per game. Plus, he had four (or more) receptions in nine of his 11 games played. Imagine if he had attended training camp and learned the whole offense. He will this off-season.

16. Steve Smith, Panthers: Although Smith had a down year in 2009, he posted better stats with Matt Moore (not Jake Delhomme) under center. Smith, who broke his arm playing flag football, expects to be ready for the start of the season.

17. Steve Smith, Giants: Smith finished fourth in the NFL in targets (157) in 2009 and set career highs in receptions (107), yards (1,220) and TDs (seven). Smith had four (or more) receptions 15 times and at least 40 yards receiving every week.

18. Hines Ward, Steelers: Ward, who said he will retire if he wins a third Super Bowl this year, had 95 receptions (tied for second-most in his career) and 1,167 (second-most) last season.

19. Mike Sims-Walker, Jaguars: MSW's strong start (minus a missed game due to a missed curfew for a bootie call) was followed up with an equally weak ending to his second season. In his final six games, Sims-Walker had only 16 receptions for 175 yards and one touchdown (or 3.8 fantasy points per game during that stretch).

20. Hakeem Nicks, Giants: Of rookies, only Michael Crabtree (56.8 yards per game) averaged more receiving yards per game than Nicks (56.4 ypg). Only Austin Collie caught more TDs (seven). And only Mike Wallace had more 40-yard catches (six) than Nicks.

21. Dwayne Bowe, Chiefs: Despite a down (suspension-shortened) season, Bowe had 995 and 1,022 in his previous (first) two NFL seasons. Bowe says that "the offense has been clicking like crazy" during off-season workouts.

22. Wes Welker, Patriots: Despite missing two games, Welker led the NFL in receptions (123) and finished second in receiving yards (1,348). Welker's 2010 fantasy value will largely be determined by how quickly and fully he returns from off-season ACL surgery. So far, Welker is "happy" with the progress of his rehab.

23. Vincent Jackson, Chargers: Three-game suspension + Possible holdout through 10 games = Downgrade on list to 23rd. Despite putting up career numbers (68-1167-9), his uncertainty knocks him down (plus Phillip Rivers in the Fantasy QB rankings) and boosts the value of Malcom Floyd.

24. Donald Driver, Packers: Although he just turned 35 in February, Driver had his sixth consecutive season with at least 70 receptions and 1,000 yards in 2009.

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Santonio Holmes pulls in the game-winning touchdown reception against the Arizona Cardinals in the fourth quarter at Super Bowl XLIII at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, on February 1, 2009. The Steelers defeated the Cardinals 27-23. UPI/Kevin Dietsch Photo via Newscom

25. Santonio Holmes, Jets: After a breakout campaign (79-1248-5) in 2009, Holmes will serve a four-game suspension in 2010 and moves to a run-first offense with a second-year (but developing) quarterback.

26. Derrick Mason, Ravens: With Boldin in the mix, it's hard to envision Mason finishing 13th in the league in targets (like he did in 2009). But he finished with 1,000+ yards for the third consecutive year and for the eighth time in the past nine seasons.

27. Percy Harvin, Vikings: Harvin, the Vikings' first-round pick in 2009, led rookie receivers in receiving yards (790) and was tied for second in touchdowns (six).

28. Jeremy Maclin, Eagles: After a solid rookie campaign (55-762-4), Maclin should continue to develop in 2010.

29. Mike Wallace, Steelers: Wallace, a big-play receiver who led the NFL in yards (19.4) per reception, will see an expanded role within the offense now that Santonio Holmes is now playing football in Jersey.

30. Pierre Garcon, Colts: Garcon led NFL receivers with 21 post-season receptions for 251 yards and two touchdowns.

31. Devin Aromashodu, Bears: In the final five games of the season, Aromashodu ranked 15th in the NFL in targets (41). And he caught 22 passes for 282 yards and four touchdowns in the final four games of the season. Even though Devin Hester and Johnny Knox are the named starters, I expect Aromashodu to be the most productive.

32. Nate Burleson, Lions: As the Lions' No. 2 receiver across from MegaTron, Burleson will mostly see single coverage. In 13 games last year, he finished with 812 yards and 62.5 yards per game average would have projected to 1,000 yards flat over a 16-game season.

33. Robert Meachem, Saints: Meachem needs to be more consistent, but the former first-round pick had a second-half split of 32-426-6 despite disappearing in the post-season (4-25-0).

34. Steve Breaston, Cardinals: With Anquan Boldin out for a few games in 2008, Breaston finished that season with 77 receptions for 1,006 yards. Although Breaston will have an expanded role in 2010, the team lost Kurt Warner to retirement.

35. Santana Moss, Redskins: In the past two seasons with Jason Campbell as quarterback, Moss has caught 149 passes for 1,946 yards. With the off-season upgrade at quarterback, the fourth 1,000-yard season of his career is within his reach.

36. T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Seahawks: Although he finished with 79 receptions (tied for 13th in the NFL), Houshmandzadeh finished with only 911 yards and three touchdowns. He has set a "minimum" goal of catching 100 passes in 2010.

December 30, 2008 San Diego, CA..wide receiver Dez Bryant #1 of Oklahoma State catches a pass and runs in for a touchdown in the first quarter in action during the Holiday Bowl College football game against Oregon at Qualcomm Stadium on December 30, 2008 in San Diego, California..Louis Lopez/CSM Photo via Newscom

37. Dez Bryant, Cowboys: Although Roy Williams says there "ain't no such thing as me sitting on the bench," Bryant will be the team's second-most productive fantasy receiver. Even cornerback Mike Jenkins says that he will be a "big-time receiver" someday.

38. Malcom Floyd, Chargers: Floyd had his best game of the season in his last one (nine catches for 140 yards) and his second half (32 catches for 496 yards) was considerably better than his first half (13 catches for 280 yards). With the suspesion (and possible holdout) of Vincent Jackson, Floyd should see a bump in targets.

39. Demaryius Thomas, Broncos: Due to his alma mater, size and athleticism, Thomas has been compared to Calvin Johnson. While that may be an unfair comparison, the first-receiver drafted should begin his NFL career as his team's No. 1 receiver.

40. Kenny Britt, Titans: Britt is a big (6-foot-3, 218 pounds), athletic receiver and should continue to improve in his second season. But his off-season of dropping passes and showing to the Titans' workout program out of shape has earned him the nickname "Question Mark."

41. Austin Collie, Colts: Collie tied Minnesota rookie Percy Harvin for the lead among rookies in receptions (60) and no rookie receiver had more touchdowns (seven) than Collie.

42. Braylon Edwards, Jets: In 2007, Edwards had a breakout year (80-1289-16). In the two seasons since then, Edwards has combined stats of only 100 receptions for 1,553 yards and seven touchdowns.

43. Antonio Bryant, Bengals: Injuries set back Bryant in 2009 (39-600-4 in 13 games) after a career-year (83-1,248-7) in 2008.

44. Chris Chambers, Chiefs: In the final eight games of the season, Chambers finished with 33 receptions for 538 yards and two touchdowns. While Chambers had a 119-yard game while Dwayne Bowe was suspended, he also had a 114-yard game when Bowe returned from suspension.

45. Davone Bess, Dolphins: As the "anti-Lee Evans," Bess caught three (or more) passes in every single game. That said, Bess only scored two touchdowns in 2009. Bess could see less targets in 2010 with the addition of Brandon Marshall as he competes with Greg Camarillo and Brian Hartline for reps.

46. Lee Evans, Bills: In half of his games, Evans had two or less receptions. In half of his games, Evans had 35 yards or less. No thanks. You can have him.

47. Jerricho Cotchery, Jets: Cotchery was the favorite target of Mark Sanchez in 2009. That's likely to change when Santonio Holmes comes off suspension. In either case, Cotchery posted four-year lows in receptions (57) and yards (821) in 2009.

48. Julian Edelman, Patriots: In the three games that Welker missed (counting the last game when he tore his ACL), Edelman had 21 receptions for 221 yards.

49. Roy Williams, Cowboys: Despite his seven touchdowns, 68 receivers had more receptions and 55 receivers had more yards than Williams. Then again, he's shown us a 1,310-yard season (2006), too.

50. Johnny Knox, Bears: Mike Martz likes fast receivers. Knox, who has been one of the starters (with Devin Hester) in the off-season, is a very fast receiver. In other words, there is the potential for a significant bump from his rookie numbers (45-527-5).

Also, check out our other 2010 Fantasy Football rankings: Top 25 QBs | Top 40 RBs | Top 20 TEs

(Updated) 2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Running Backs (RBs)

The NFL pre-season gets underway a month from Thursday (Hall of Fame game between Cowboys and Bengals).

Over the next month, we will release our rankings keeper rankings, point-per-reception (PPR) rankings and our top 150 cheat sheets as well as in-depth player analysis and projections. For now, here is our updated list of the top 40 running backs for fantasy football:

1. Chris Johnson, Titans: 2,006 yards. 11 straight 100-yard games. While those numbers would be nearly impossible to repeat, Johnson can take it to the house on any given play with his 4.24 speed. The question is: Will he do so for his $550,000 salary? On a positive note, a compromise to the contract situation may be reached before the start of the season, per Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean.

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 27: Adrian Peterson (R) attends a game between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on April 27, 2010 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Noel Vasquez/Getty Images)

2. Adrian Peterson, Vikings: In three NFL seasons, Peterson has rushed for 1,300+ yards and 10+ touchdowns every year. His fumbling issues are well-documented, but he also had his best season as a receiver (43 receptions for 436) in 2009.

3. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars: In his first season as the featured back, Pocket Hercules delivered with 1,391 rushing yards, 374 receiving yards on 53 receptions and 16 combined touchdowns. My only concern? MJD had two games with single-digit rushing attempts. What if that happens against Washington in week 16?

4. Ray Rice, Ravens: Rice led RBs in receptions (78) and receiving yards (702) in 2009. He was one of only two backs to have over 2000 yards from scrimmage.

5. Michael Turner, Falcons: An ankle injury in week 10 essentially wiped out the rest of his season, but he was getting into a groove before the injury (428 rushing yards on 47 carries (9.1 YPC) and three touchdowns in 2 1/2 games). In his 27 games as a Falcon, Turner has rushed for more touchdowns (27) than he has receptions (11).

(Note: although these rankings are not based on a point-per-reception scoring, I will release my PPR rankings within the next two weeks.)

6. Frank Gore, 49ers: With two first-round picks in the 2010 NFL Draft, the 49ers drafted two offensive linemen (Trent Williams and Mike Iupati), which is obviously a benefit to Gore. In addition to rushing for over 1,000 yards in the past four years, he has also averaged 52 receptions per season during that span.

7. Steven Jackson, Rams: With the Rams' lack of offensive weapons to complement Jackson, opposing defenses know what is coming. Yet Jackson still finished second in the NFL in rushing in 2009 despite being hampered by back issues for the second half of the season.

8. Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers: Starting in week four, Mendenhall rushed for 1,068 yards and seven TDs in the final 13 games of the season. (That's a 1300-yard pace.) With Fast Willie in D.C. now, a repeat (or even an improvement) of that pace seems likely.

9. Ryan Grant, Packers: As the runner for one of the league's best aerial assaults, Grant should continue to see a lot of seven-men fronts and open lanes to run. Only four RBs rushed for more yards (1,253) and TDs (11) than Grant in 2009.

10. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers: Despite missing three games last year, Williams has rushed for 2,632 yards and scored 27 touchdowns (25 rushing and two receiving) in the past two seasons. His only drawback? Backfield mate Jonathan Stewart has rushed for close to 2,000 yards and 20 touchdowns during that same span.

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11. Cedric Benson, Bengals: Only Tennessee's Chris Johnson finished with a higher yards-per-game average than Benson (96.2 ypg). However, will his June 29th arrest lead to discipline under the league's personal-conduct policy? And Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk thinks the Bengals should cut Benson.

12. Ryan Mathews, Chargers: Not only does he have the skills (NCAA's second-leading rusher), Mathews steps into a nearly ideal situation to flourish. Chargers coach Norv Turner expects Mathews to get around 250 carries, which would have put him in the top ten in 2009.

13. Jamaal Charles, Chiefs: Charles had a Chris Johnson-esque second half (968 rushing yards, 158 receiving yards and eight total TDs) including a record-setting performance in the finale. If it weren't for the addition of Thomas Jones, who rushed for a career-high 1,402 yards in 2009, Charles would be in my top ten.

14. Shonn Greene, Jets: The Jets replaced one thirty-something back with another, but it's Greene's team now (even if LaDainian Tomlinson isn't aware of that). And with arguably the league's best line in front of him, Greene could have a monster season.

GLENDALE, AZ - JANUARY 10: Runningback Beanie Wells #26 of the Arizona Cardinals rushes the football during the 2010 NFC wild-card playoff game against the Green Bay Packers at the Universtity of Phoenix Stadium on January 10, 2010 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals defeated the Packers 51-45 in overtime. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

15. Beanie Wells, Cardinals: With the retirement of Kurt Warner and departure of Anquan Boldin (to Baltimore), the Cardinals will likely rely more on their running game than they have in years past. And Wells, who had 338 rushing/receiving yards and three touchdowns in his last four games, should be ready to capitalize.

16. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers: We saw what The Daily Show could do without DeAngelo Williams in the lineup: (440 rushing yards in final three games). Provided both backs are healthy for all of 2010, I would expect to see a split of 55-45 in favor of Williams. That said, another 1,000-yard, 10-touchdown season is likely for Stewart.

17. Pierre Thomas, Saints: With the off-season departure of Mike Bell, Thomas should get more carries in 2010 than given in 2009 (147). In 14 games, he finished with 1,095 (793 rushing and 302 receiving) yards from scrimmage in 2009 and averaged 5.4 yards per rushing attempt.

18. Knowshon Moreno, Broncos: Moreno led all rookies in rushing (947 yards) and finished 16th overall even though he failed to go over the 50-yard mark in seven of his 16 games. He should be more consistent in 2010.

19. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins: When healthy, he's elite. However, he's missed 20 games in his five-year career. Therefore, his best season was 2006 when he finished with only 1,008 rushing yards. Feeling lucky?

20. LeSean McCoy, Eagles: The days of Donovan McNabb and Brian Westbrook are over in Philly. In the eight games that Westbrook missed in 2009, McCoy rushed for 473 yards and four TDs and caught 22 passes for 163 yards. A combined rushing/receiving total of 1,300+ seems reasonable for 2010.

21. Joseph Addai, Colts: Addai, who finished sixth among RBs in receptions (51), also scored 13 times in 15 games. That's the good news. However, only the Cardinals (365) had fewer rushing attempts as a team than the Colts (366) and it's likely that back-up Donald Brown, who missed five games as a rookie, will get a larger workload than 78 carries (his 2009 total) -- at the expense of Addai -- in 2010.

22. Brandon Jacobs, Giants: After back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, Jacobs rushed for only 835 yards despite getting a career-high 224 carries. Even worse, his TD production dropped from 15 in 2008 to five in 2009. And Ahmad Bradshaw could get a bigger chunk of the workload in 2010. Considering all those, I'm not exactly sure why I expect a bounce-back season for Jacobs. But I do.

23. Felix Jones, Cowboys: Jones, who is a big-play threat, could become the starter in 2010. In two playoff games, Jones rushed for 217 yards on 30 carries (average of 7.2 YPC).

24. Jahvid Best, Lions: The Lions moved back up into the first round to select Best, who has made a positive impression on his teammates so far. Receiver Nate Burleson said: "You hear about how explosive Best is and then you see him catch a ball in the flat, stick his foot in the ground and get up field like a Mustang."

25. Ricky Williams, Dolphins: He proved he can post big numbers if (or when) Ronnie Brown misses action. But with Brown in the lineup, Williams had 751 yards from scrimmage and seven TDs in nine games. (That's a 16-game pace of 1,335 yards and 12 TDs backing up Brown.)

26. Marion Barber, Cowboys: Perhaps a reduced role for MBIII in favor of Felix Jones may hurt his fantasy value. That said, Barber has flourished before in the role of "closer."

27. Ben Tate, Texans: Steve Slaton says that he's "100 percent." And Arian Foster rushed for 216 yards and three touchdowns in the team's final two games in 2009. But there's a good chance that Tate, who has a good combination of size and speed, will receive the largest workload in the Texans' backfield.

28. Jerome Harrison, Browns: By drafting Montario Hardesty, who has impressed coach Eric Mangini, in the second round, Harrison will have to share the workload with the rookie. But in the final three weeks of the season, Harrison had 561 yards and five touchdowns on 106 carries. Then again, he had only 88 carries for 301 yards and no scores in his other 11 games played. So, I guess we'll see.

29. Fred Jackson, Bills: When he received the bulk of work (over Marshawn Lynch), Jackson flourished as one of only 15 running backs to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark helped by a 212-yard performance in the season finale. He also finished tenth among RBs in receptions (46). But he will have to share the workload with rookie C.J. Spiller, the speedster from Clemson.

CHICAGO - DECEMBER 06: Paris Lenon #53 of the St. Louis Rams leaps over Frank Omiyale #68 of the Chicago Bears to try and tackle Matt Forte #22 at Soldier Field on December 6, 2009 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bears defeated the Rams 17-9. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

30. Matt Forte, Bears: This consensus top-five pick in 2009 was arguably fantasy football's biggest disappointment. With newcomers Mike Martz and Chester Taylor in town, 2010 could be more like 2009 (929 rushing yards) than 2008 (1,238 rushing yards) for Forte.

31. Cadillac Williams, Buccaneers: Cadillac had a solid (and, more importantly, healthy) season. His best month of the season was his last as he rushed for 301 yards in four December games with an average of 4.7 yards per carry.

32. Thomas Jones, Chiefs: Thirty-something running backs tend to see precipitous declines in production. Despite setting career-highs in rushing yards and touchdowns, Jones will back up Jamaal Charles in 2010.

33. Ahmad Bradshaw, Giants: Bradshaw averaged 1.1 yards per carry more than Jacobs and scored two more touchdowns despite getting 61 fewer carries. Bradshaw had off-season surgery on his feet and ankle, but he says that he feels "10 times better."

34. C.J. Spiller, Bills: Like the guy that tops this list, Spiller is a big-play threat with world-class speed that can take it to the house on any given play.

35. Montario Hardesty, Browns: Hardesty has impressed the coaching staff in Cleveland with his physical running style and ability to pick up the offense and should push Jerome Harrison for carries in 2010.

36. LaDainian Tomlinson, Jets: L.T. has gone from 1,474 yards (315 carries) to 1,110 yards (292 carries) to 730 yards (223 carries). See the trend?

37. Steve Slaton, Texans: There are plenty of concerns: fumbles lost, off-season neck surgery (although he says he's "100 percent") and Houston drafting Ben Tate. But in 11 games last year, Slaton still racked up 854 combined yards and scored seven touchdowns. That's a pace of 1,242 yards and ten touchdowns. Plus, he had 1,659 combined yards and 10 TDs in his 2008 rookie campaign.

38. Michael Bush, Raiders: Bush led the Raiders in rushing in 2009 with 589 yards. With Justin Fargas no longer in the mix, there will be more carries for Bush and Darren McFadden. Despite McFadden's potential, Bush has produced (career 4.6 yards per carry) when given a chance.

39. Reggie Bush, Saints: With the departure of Mike Bell, who led the team in rushing attempts (172), there should be more carries for Bush, who only had 70 carries last year, and Pierre Thomas. In 14 games, Bush finished with 735 combined yards and seven combined touchdowns in 14 games.

40. Justin Forsett, Seahawks: With the LenDale White era over in Seattle almost as quickly as it began, there is one less back with whom Forsett will compete for carries. Despite getting only 114 carries, Forsett had 969 yards from scrimmage (619 rushing and 350 receiving) in 2009. With Julius Jones out for a three-game stretch last year, Forsett had 368 yards from scrimmage in weeks 10-12.

Also, check out our other 2010 Fantasy Football rankings: Top 25 QBs | Top 50 WRs | Top 20 TEs

(Updated) 2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Quarterbacks (QBs)

The NFL pre-season gets underway a month from Thursday (Hall of Fame game between Cowboys and Bengals).

Over the next month, we will release our rankings keeper rankings, our top 150 cheat sheets as well as in-depth player analysis and projections. For now, here is our updated list of the top 25 quarterbacks for fantasy football:

1. Drew Brees, Saints: No QB has passed for more yards (9,457) or touchdowns (68) than Brees over the past two seasons. The only reason he had a four-year low of 4,388 passing yards last year was the Saints rested him in week 17 to get ready for their Super Bowl run.

2. Aaron Rodgers, Packers: With back-to-back 4,000-yard seasons under his belt, it wouldn't surprise me if Rodgers finished 2010 as the top-ranked fantasy passer partly due to his rushing numbers (316 yards and five touchdowns in 2009).

3. Peyton Manning, Colts: In 12 NFL seasons, Manning has reached the 4,000-yard milestone ten times including the past four seasons. The two he missed: 3,739 (rookie season) and 3,747 (2005). Considering he's only been sacked 24 times in his past two seasons, he's about as safe of a pick as possible.

4. Tom Brady, Patriots: Although Wes Welker may not be ready to go week one, he is "happy" about the progress of his rehab. And with Randy Moss, Julian Edelman, Torry Holt and a pair of pass-catching rookie tight ends (Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez), Brady should be in for a big year.

5. Tony Romo, Cowboys: Only Matt Schaub and Peyton Manning threw for more yards and only Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers threw fewer interceptions (among full-season starters) than Romo in 2009. With rookie Dez Bryant, who cornerback Mike Jenkins said will be a "big-time receiver" someday, joining an offense that includes Miles Austin, Jason Witten, Roy Williams and Felix Jones, Romo is poised for a monster season in 2010.
6. Matt Schaub, Texans: Schaub led the NFL in passing yards (4,770) despite being without his stud tight end (Owen Daniels) for half of the year.

7. Brett Favre, Vikings: The summer of mowing the lawn and throwing to high-schoolers has begun for Favre. While the 40-year-old QB may not be able duplicate last year's tremendous success (4,202 yards, 33 TDs, 7 INTs), it's realistic to expect something close to 4,000 yards and 30 touchdowns with his supporting cast in Minnesota.

8. Philip Rivers, Chargers: He's one of four QBs that have passed for 4,000 yards in each of the past two seasons and only Brees has thrown more TDs during that stretch. With Vincent Jackson serving a three-game suspension and possibly holding out through the first ten games, Rivers' fantasy value takes a big hit (he was fourth in my late-May rankings).

9. Joe Flacco, Ravens: With new weapons in the passing game (free agents Anquan Boldin and Donte' Stallworth as well as rookies Ed Dickson, Dennis Pitta and David Reed), Flacco should easily exceed his 2009 numbers of 3,613 yards and 21 touchdowns.

10. Eli Manning, Giants: With a core group of young receivers (Steve Smith, Hakeem Nicks, Mario Manningham, etc.), Eli set career highs in yards (4,021) and TDs (27) in 2009.

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ASHURN, VA - APRIL 6: Mike Shanahan, head coach of the Washington Redskins presents Donovan McNabb with his new jersey during a press conference on April 6, 2010 at Redskin Park in Ashburn, Virginia. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)

11. Donovan McNabb, Redskins: With a downgrade in weapons in the passing game, it will be difficult for McNabb to duplicate his 16-game pace (he missed two games) in 2009 of 4,060 yards and 25 TDs. If the Redskins trade for Vincent Jackson, however, McNabb would jump to a few spots.

12. Jay Cutler, Bears: Without Martz, Cutler passed for 3,666 yards and 27 TDs despite a career-high in interceptions (26). If Martz can help Cutler reign in the turnovers, he could be in for a huge season. Either way, Cutler said of Martz: "He makes you want to come to work every day."

13. Matt Ryan, Falcons: Despite his sophomore slump, partly due to injury (most of three games), Ryan has weapons such as Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez at his disposal and should be poised for a bounce-back year. And in 14 games, he still threw 22 touchdowns.

14. Kevin Kolb, Eagles: With weapons like DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin and Brent Celek, it wouldn't surprise me to see Kolb finish in the 10-12 range of fantasy quarterbacks (and even ahead of McNabb) in 2010 with the Eagles' pass-first offense.

15. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers: Only Brees and Schaub had more passing yards per game than Big Ben (288.5) in 2009. The problem is you won't get his per-game production until he serves his six-game (possibly four-game) suspension. Plus the team's leading receiver from 2009 was traded to the New York Jets for a fifth-round pick.

16. Carson Palmer, Bengals: Palmer threw for only 1,262 yards, seven TDs and six interceptions in the final eight games of 2010. That needs to be better. But the Bengals have added new receivers Antonio Bryant, Matt Jones and rookies Jordan Shipley and Dezmon Briscoe in addition to significantly upgrading their tight end position by drafting Jermaine Gresham with their first-round pick.

17. David Garrard, Jaguars: Garrard has quietly been a steady fantasy producer over the past two seasons. As a back-up QB on your fantasy team, hope that your starter has his bye when Garrard is at home (over 2,000 yards and 12 TDs at home last year).

18. Jason Campbell, Raiders: Last year, Campbell posted career highs in passing yards (3,618) and TDs (20). It will be difficult to surpass those numbers in Oakland considering the lack of weapons in their passing game.

19. Matthew Stafford, Lions: The Lions added Nate Burleson, a huge upgrade as their No. 2 receiver, via free agency and MegaTron is healthy again. Last year, Stafford led the NFL in pass attempts per game (37.7).

MIAMI - DECEMBER 06:  Quarterback Chad Henne #7 of the Miami Dolphins talks with offensive coordinator Dan Henning on the sideline after calling a time-out during the game-winning drive against the New England Patriots at Land Shark Stadium on December 6, 2009 in Miami, Florida. The Dolphins defeated the Patriots 22-21.  (Photo by Doug Benc/Getty Images)

20. Chad Henne, Dolphins: The off-season addition of Brandon Marshall will help Henne, the strong-armed quarterback from Michigan, make big strides in his second year (first full season) as a starter in Miami.

21. Alex Smith, 49ers: Although Smith played in only 11 games, his per-game stats equate to a pace of 3,418 yards and 26 touchdowns over a full 16-game season. Plus, the Niners have decent weapons in the passing game: Vernon Davis (one of the league's top three tight ends), Michael Crabtree (the top-rated receiver heading into last year's rookie class) and Frank Gore (who has averaged 52 receptions over the past four years).

22. Vince Young, Titans: This is still a run-first team, but VY can make plays with his legs. During the Titans' 7-1 run from weeks 8 to 15, Young threw 10 touchdowns and only three interceptions. Although Young was cited with a misdemeanor assault charge from an incident at a Dallas strip club, it's unlikely that Young faces any discipline from the league provided he stays out of trouble.

23. Matt Cassel, Chiefs: Only three quarterbacks were sacked more times than Cassel (42), who will look to improve upon his 2009 numbers (2,924 yards and 16 touchdowns).

24. Mark Sanchez, Jets: Typical of rookie quarterbacks, Sanchez had an up-and-down season. In four games with 3+ interceptions, he threw two touchdowns and 15 interceptions. In his other 11 games, he threw 10 touchdowns and only five interceptions. The addition of Santonio Holmes, who will serve a four-game suspension to start the season, should help Sanchez make progress in his second season.

25. Matt Moore, Panthers: With Jake Delhomme out of the picture (and the threat of Jimmy Clausen taking over), Moore will get an opportunity to build on his 2009 success (61.6% completion, 8 TDs, 2 INTs). That said, how long is his leash? (Vote on our poll: Who will the Panthers' starting QB in week 17?)

Also, check out our other 2010 Fantasy Football rankings: Top 40 RBs | Top 50 WRs | Top 20 TEs

July 06, 2010

Shonn Greene won't be changing his running style

Don't expect Greene to adjust his punishing style of running anytime soon.

As pointed out by Manish Mehta of the NY Daily News, Greene dismissed Mehta's scenarios of modifying his running style to preserve his body for the rigors of a full NFL season.

We don’t run out of bounds,” Greene said. “I’ve been taught that all my life…. I don’t think that’s going to help the way I play by doing that. If I just go out and do what I do, everything else will take care of itself.”

That said, his running backs coach will "make him aware of" some potential adjustments to help "get him through 16 games.”

“You have to teach him when to avoid, when to go down and when not to take on three people just so he can get through a season,” running backs coach Anthony Lynn told Mehta. “That’s an education process.”

In my fantasy football rankings (to be updated on July 7th), Greene will be the 14th-ranked running back, which is a couple of spots higher than his previous ranking.

July 05, 2010

JaMarcus Russell: A Bust, Literally and Figuratively

The Oakland Raiders made LSU quarterback JaMarcus Russell the top overall draft pick in the 2007 NFL Draft.

Earlier this off-season, the Raiders cut Russell.

It's debatable whether Russell is the biggest draft bust of all-time, a dubious distinction that many attribute to Ryan Leaf.

But Russell has now been busted for possession of a controlled substance (codeine syrup) as reported by Daniela Werner of the Mobile Press-Register.

Russell, who was released on bail, is scheduled to appear in court on July 20th.

July 02, 2010

Lions sign Dre' Bly to two-year contract

The Detroit Lions have signed cornerback Dre' Bly to a two-year contract, per Carlos Monarrez of the Detroit Free Press.

In addition to signing Bly, they cut cornerback Paul Pratt

Bly, the second-round pick of the Rams in 1999, will begin his second stint with the Lions after spending last season with the 49ers and the previous two seasons with the Broncos.

During the first two (of his four seasons) in Detroit, Bly earned a trip to the Pro Bowl (2003 and 2004).

This off-season, the Lions have added six other defensive backs (four safeties and two cornerbacks). The other cornerbacks are Jonathan Wade, who guaranteed a playoff berth, and Dante Wesley.

Wade and Chris Houston currently top the Lions' depth chart at cornerback.

July 01, 2010

Chris Johnson works out at team's facilities

One of the biggest off-season stories has been the potential holdout of Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson.

Johnson hasn't participated in the Titans' organized team activities (OTAs), but he didn't participate last off-season either.

That said, Johnson worked out at the team's facilities as recently as Wednesday despite his denials, per Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean.

"No I didn't work out today in Tennessee. I am in Orlando, Fla. The rumors, those are lies," Johnson said (on Ustream). "I haven't been back to Tennessee since my camp." (His camp ended on June 16th.)

While he is grossly underpaid ($550,000 salary for 2010) compared to his production (set NFL record for yards from scrimmage in 2009), it's unlikely that Johnson will miss any games in 2010 due a holdout.

And it seems as unlikely that the Titans will budge in their stance.

Goldson: Alex Smith will "be the most improved player in the NFL"

San Francisco 49ers safety Dashon Goldson made a bold statement about the team's signal caller during a chat on NFL.com Thursday.

Goldson believes that Alex Smith, who was the first overall draft pick in 2005, will "be the most improved player in the NFL this year."

“Since the first day of OTAs, he’s been on the top of his game,” Goldson said (per NFL.com). “He’s taking it serious, and he knows we’ll go as far as he’ll take us. He’s improved big-time. I think he’ll be the most improved player in the NFL this year. We believe in him.”

Smith, who became the starter in week 7, threw for 2,350 yards, 18 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 11 games last year. He completed over 60 percent of his passes and only had a QB rating of less than 60 in two games (42.3 and 59.7).

Extrapolating his numbers over a 16-game pace, Smith would have thrown for 3,418 yards and 26 touchdowns.

Vincent Jackson suspended for 3 games

Due to his two DUI arrests, San Diego Chargers receiver Vincent Jackson has been suspended by the NFL for three games, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Unless he gets a new deal from the Chargers (which seems about as likely as two Brazilian Victoria's Secret supermodels fighting over me), however, Jackson would have been sitting out those three games (Chiefs, Jaguars and Seahawks) in addition to seven more anyways.

In order to qualify for a year of service towards free agency, Jackson will need to sign his tender as a restricted free agent (or reach a long-term deal) before the team's final six games.

The Chargers will continue to shop Jackson, who set career-highs in receptions (68), yards (1,167) and touchdowns (nine) in 2009.

So far, the Seahawks, Redskins and Bears have been linked to having interest in Jackson although the Bears claim to not be interested.