TheFFBI's Most Wanted: Week 10 Waiver Wire Pick Ups



Running Backs

1.  Marcel Reece/Taiwan Jones Oak - Darren McFadden and back RB Mike Goodson both suffered high ankle sprains during last week's game.  This gives both Reece and Jones value for the next 3 to 5 weeks.  I like Reece much higher than Jones.  Reece has been playing full back and can be used all over the field.  Reece is a big physical runner, who was a TE in college, and he runs a 4.42 40 yard dash time.  He is good in pass protection, and the coaching staff has already publicly condemned Jones' pass protection skills.  That being said, we still don't know how the workload will be distributed.  This makes Taiwan Jones, who runs a 4.33 40 yard dash time, a good add as well.
2. James Starks GB - I've written about Starks quite a bit in the past few weeks.  The Packers gave Starks 17 carries, to Green's 11.  Starks was not involved in the passing game, while Green was.  This doesn't make Starks a must add.  Cedric Benson  should be back around week 12, and this probably just makes Starks a part of a backfield committee, on a bad running team.  If you are desperate for RB help, Starks is a good add, with upside to possibly wrest the starting job from Alex Green.

 

Wide Receivers

1. T.Y. Hilton Ind - Hilton had a quiet month of October, splitting looks with Donnie Avery.  This Thursday he gets a good matchup, against the Jaguars, and Avery's availability is in question.  If Avery goes, or doesn't go, I like Hilton as a flex play or WR3 this week.  Avery has had troubles staying healthy in the past, and if he were to go down for an extended time,  Hilton would obviously have more value.
2. Brian Hartline Mia - If Hartline was dropped in your league, you should pick him up.  He has been inconsistent, since his big game in week 4, but he has a nice match up this week against the Titans.  Hartline is still a WR worth owning.
3. Emmanuel Sanders/Jerricho Cotchery Pit - Antonio Brown reportedly has a mild high ankle sprain.  Brown says he expects to play Monday night against Kansas City, but I find this very unlikely.  Even if Brown does play his performance will be affected.  This will leave more work for Sanders and Cotchery, against a bad defense.  Sanders is the more explosive player, who runs a 4.41 40 time, and received 2 targets for two catches for 16 yards and a TD last week.  Cotchery is more of a possession receiver, who caught 4 passes for 50 yards on 4 targets.

Top 5 Fantasy Football Podcasts

Being allowed to listen to my Ipod at work, is one of my favorite perks.  It helps the long nights go by quicker, and has allowed me to listen to just about every fantasy football podcast available on Itunes.  Out of the multitude of podcast I have sampled, these five are my favorites.

1. ESPN: Fantasy Focus Football - Fantasy Focus Football will always be number one in my heart.  Mathew Berry, Nate Ravitz, Stephania Bell, and even Pod Vader, to a lesser extent, taught me how to play fantasy football.  I started listening to their podcast in their first season, which was coincidentally also my first year playing fantasy football.  The inside jokes, nonsense, and fantasy football information has kept me entertained and informed throughout my fantasy football career.  There is a new episode every week day.  They review all of the games, give waiver wire advice, answer emails, Starphania gives injury updates, they answer hard justice questions, and preview the games on Friday.  I owe a lot of my fantasy football success to the 06010. 
2. Footballguys.com - The Audible - The Footballguys.com podcast has been a new favorite of mine.  Cecil Lammey, Sigmund Bloom, Matt Waldman, and Dr. Jene Bramel are some of the most informed fantasy analyst, that I get information from.  They all watch tape, and I honestly probably get more quality information from them than the 06010.  They also bring some humor to the show and give me some good laughs.  They have more podcast episodes a week than anyone else, and cover a wide range of topics; game reviews and previews, the most informative waiver wire podcast, injury updates with Dr. Jene Bramel, Sigmund Bloom always has ask important and relevant questions in his On The Couch series, and they have an IDP specific podcast.  I can't say enough good things about this podcast.  It is really well thought out and has the most comprehensive fantasy coverage. 
3. BTR: FantasyGuru.com - FantasyGuru.com is another great fantasy podcast.  They have 3 weekly episodes that are light on humor, but heavy on quality information.  They have a Sunday night wrap up episode, In the Loop episode that covers waiver wire pick ups and other weekly information, and lastly the most quality hour of fantasy football information in my week.  The Weekly Matchup show, with Adam Caplan and Greg Cosell, producer of the NFL Matchup show on ESPN, is almost good enough to make them number two on the list.  Caplan and Cosell preview every game in the upcoming week while backing up opinions with quality film analysis.  Listening to this show, will greatly expand your knowledge of the X and Os of football and how it affects fantasy football. 
4. CBSSports.com Fantasy Football Podcast - Host Adam Aizer, and the CBSSports.com fantasy analyst, have high quality podcast every weekday.  They hit all of the major fantasy football topics that the other podcast do, and bring some good humor to the show as well.  I find myself disagreeing with a lot of their opinions, but this is also a reason I like this podcast.  They back up their arguments with good facts and keep me open to opinions that differ from my own.
5. ESPN: Fantasy Underground - The Fantasy Underground is a weekly podcast with Christopher Harris and Field Yates.  Harris and Yates break down NFL coaches film and relate it to weekly matchups and player values.  This is a great podcast that can teach you a lot about both the NFL and fantasy football.  It would be higher on the list, if it was more than one podcast a week. 

TheFFBI's Most Wanted: Week 9 Waiver Wire Pick Ups

There is not a whole lot of new players to talk about after this weekend's games.  I suggest you take a look at last week's waiver wire article.  Most of the player's I wrote about built on their success and are still viable pick ups. 

 

Running Backs

1.  Joique Bell/Kevin Smith Det - Bell has seen significant work in the past 5 weeks.  Being a timeshare guy on a bad running team doesn't amount to much value.  But, the reason I am writing about Bell and Smith, is the fact that Mikel Leshoure looked like he may have sustained some type of injury in last week's game.  The Lions typically don't reveal much injury information, unless they absolutely have to.  If Leshoure was injured this week, or falls to injury in the upcoming weeks, both Smith and Bell would have more value. Leshoure is a year removed from an achilles injury, and has got his share of nicks and bruises in his return.
2. Daniel Thomas Mia - Thomas is more than likely owned in your league.  If he is still out there you should grab him.  Thomas got one more carry than Reggie Bush did this week!  Thomas also got the TD when the Dolphins got in close.  Part of this may have been due to the fact that Miami had built such a large lead, but Thomas has been a goal line factor for some time now.  If the injury prone Bush were to go down, Thomas would be a low end RB2.
3. Jacquizz Rodgers Atl - Rodgers is also more than likely owned, but you never know who will get dropped when bye weeks come.  Rodgers' 13 touches totaled 80 yards this past week, due largely to a big 43 yard run.  Turner on the other hand, totaled only 58 yards on 24 carries, a 2.4 YPC average.  The Falcons may make this situation more of a 50-50 time share in the near future.

 

Wide Receivers

1. Cecil Shorts Jac - Shorts started out the season as just a deep shot WR.  Now, in his last two games, he has 22 targets and 12 catches.  I think Shorts has turned into an interesting low end WR3.  He is one of the only Jaguars WRs that is making plays, and is developing some chemistry with Gabbert.
2. Ryan Broyles Det - Broyles is a good add for deeper leagues, or if you are desperate for WR help.  Broyles isn't getting a whole lot of looks, yet.  But, he does have a TD in each of the last two weeks and this Lion's offense can support 3 WRs, if it has indeed returned to form.

 

 

Tight Ends

1. Tony Moeaki KC - Moeaki saw his most targets of the season this past Sunday; catching 4 passes for 57 yards on 8 targets.  If you are real desperate for TE help, you can stash him and hope he gets back to his 2010 form. 

Week 8 Fantasy Football Rankings

Quarterbacks

1. Aaron Rodgers vs Jac
2. Drew Brees @ Den
3. Peyton Manning vs NO
4. Robert Griffin III @ Pit
5. Tom Brady @ StL - Check the weather report on Sunday.  It is supposed to rain, and the field could be a real mess.  That would bring his value down slightly.
6. Ben Roethlisberger vs Wsh
7. Matt Ryan @ Phi
8. Michael Vick vs Atl - The "prove that he is still good to his old team" game.
9. Andrew Luck @ Ten
10. Eli Manning @ Dal
11. Cam Newton @ Chi
12. Philip Rivers @ Cle
13. Tony Romo vs NYG
14. Mathew Stafford vs Sea - Seattle is a tough match up for QBs.  I do think things get better going forward though.
15. Jay Cutler vs Car
16. Carson Palmer @ KC
17. Brandon Weeden vs SD
18. Matt Hasselbeck vs Ind
19. Sam Bradford vs NE
20. Rusell Wilson vs Det

 

Running Backs

1. Lesean McCoy vs Atl
2. Matt Forte vs Car
3. Jamaal Charles vs Oak
4. Willis McGahee vs NO
5. Chris Johnson vs Ind
6. Ryan Mathews @ Cle
7. Alfred Morris @ Pit
8. Frank Gore @ Ari
9. Marshawn Lynch @ Det
10. Ahmad Bradshaw @ Dal
11. Reggie Bush @ NYJ
12. Darren Sproles @ Den
13. Darren McFadden @ KC - If he doesn't do it this week, he is a match up only play.
14. Rashad Jennings @ GB
15. Michael Turner @ Phi
16. Stevan Ridley @ StL - If Ridley fumbles, he could have Vereen jump him on the depth chart. 
17. Steven Jackson vs NE
18. Mikel Leshoure vs Sea
19. Jonathan Dwyer vs Wsh
20. Trent Richardson vs SD
21. Alex Green vs Jac
22. Felix Jones vs NYG
23. Jonathan Stewart @ Chi
24. Shonn Greene vs Min
25. Vick Ballard @ Ten
26. Larod Stephens-Howling vs SF
27. Pierre Thomas @ Den
28. Daryl Richardson vs NE
29. Shane Vereen @ StL - Vereen received every compliment you could get from Belichick earlier this week, and will get 8-14 touches.
30. Michael Bush vs Car
31. Phillip Tanner vs NYG
32. Jamie Harper vs Ind - Harper gets the goal line and short yardage carries.  With Javon Ringer out for the year, he is a good stash in case Johnson goes down too.
33. Montario Hardesty vs SD
34. Danny Woodhead @ StL
35. Andre Brown @ Dal

 

Wide Receivers

1. Mike Wallace vs Wsh
2. Roddy White @ Phi
3. Victor Cruz @ Dal
4. Brandon Marshall vs Car
5. Reggie Wayne @ Ten
6. Demaryius Thomas vs NO
7. Marques Colston @ Den
8. Julio Jones @ Phi
9. Eric Decker vs NO
10. Wes Welker @ StL
11. Miles Austin vs NYG
12. Antonio Brown vs Wsh
13. Randall Cobb vs Jac
14. Hakeem Nicks @ Dal
15. Jeremy Maclin vs Atl
16. James Jones vs Jac
17. Desean Jackson vs Atl
18. Calvin Johnson vs Sea - Calvin has struggled against big physical corners, like last week against Charles Tillman.  He faces another such CB this week, and a tough defense.
19. Dwayne Bowe vs Oak
20. Denarius Moore @ KC
21. Kenny Britt vs Ind
22. Dez Bryant vs NYG
23. Lance Moore @ Den
24. Jordy Nelson vs Jac - If Nelson is active this is around where I would put him.  Hamstring injuries affect speed guys more than anyone else.
25. Jeremy Kerley vs Mia - Kerley has turned into Sanchez's go to WR.
26. Brandon Lloyd @ StL
27. Malcom Floyd @ Cle
28. Larry Fitzgerald vs SF - Fitzgerald is the cardinals only real threat on offense.  The 49ers should have no problem shutting him, and the entire Arizona offense, down this week.
29. Steve Smith @ Chi
30. Josh Gordon vs SD
31. Santana Moss @ Pit - With Garcon down, maybe for the rest of the season, I think Moss emerges as a good WR3.
32. Titus Young vs Sea
33. Chris Givens vs NE
34. Donnie Avery @ Ten
35. Brian Hartline @ NYJ
36. Sidney Rice @ Det
37. Kendall Wright vs Ind
38. Cecil Shorts @ GB
39. Ryan Broyles vs Sea
40. Nate Washington vs Ind
     

Tight Ends

1. Antonio Gates @ Cle
2. Tony Gonzalez @ Phi
3. Rob Gronkowski @ StL
4. Heath Miller vs Wsh
5. Jason Witten vs NYG
6. Martellus Bennett @ Dal
7. Jermaine Gresham @ Den
8. Vernon Davis @ Ari
9. Dustin Keller vs Mia
10. Brent Celek vs Atl
11. Greg Olsen @ Chi
12. Jared Cook vs Ind
13. Brandon Myers @ KC
14. Brandon Pettigrew vs Sea
15. Joel Dreesen vs NO
16. Jermichael Finley vs Jac
17. Jacob Tamme vs NO
18. Dwayne Allen @ Ten
19. Coby Fleener @ Ten
20. Logan Paulsen @ Pit

 

Defenses

1. Chicago Bears vs Car
2. San Francisco 49ers @ Ari
3. Green Bay Packers vs Jac
4. Seattle Seahawks @ Det
5. Atlanta Falcons @ Phi
6. Arizona Cardinals vs SF
7. Miami Dolphins @ NYJ\
8. New York Jets vs Mia
9. New York Giants @ Dal
10. San Diego Chargers @ Cle
11. Detroit Lions vs Sea
12. Pittsburgh Steelers vs Wsh
13. Cleveland Browns vs SD
14. Philadelphia Eagles vs Atl
15. Oakland Raiders @ KC
16. Kansas City Chiefs vs Oak
17. Dallas Cowboys vs NYG
18. Denver Broncos vs NO
19. Carolina Panthers @ Chi
20. Washington Redskins @ Pit

TheFFBI's Most Wanted: Week 8 Waiver Wire Pick Ups

Running Backs

1. Rashad Jennings Jac - Jennings is the easy call for number one pick up this week.  MJD doesn't have a lisfranc injury, and will not require surgery.  However, he will out for at least 2-3 weeks, possibly longer.  Jennings has talent and can play all 3 downs.  The Jaguars are not an offensive juggernaut, but they do have an average to good O line, and these kind of touches at the RB position are valuable.
2. Larod Stephens-Howling Ari - No one I read, or listened to, this week predicted that the Cardinals would make the switch to Stephens-Howling.  Stephens-Howling did start the game.  Some have pointed to the fact that Powell bobbled a kick return may have been the reason for the switch.  Whatever the reason is, it looks like Larod is the new starter.  He performed very well, against a good defense. 
3. Montario Hardesty Cle - Trent Richardson may not be able to play next week.  Richardson's rib injury limited his effectiveness in week 7.  There is talk that the Browns could sit Richardson, to give him some rest.  The Browns have a decent week 8 match up, against the Ravens.  Whether Richardson suits up or not, I still think Hardesty could be a flex play for team's that are desperate for RB help.
4. James Starks GB - Alex Green had 20 attempts for 35 yards, a 1.8 YPC average.  Mike McCarthy has publicly said that the Packers production on the ground was unacceptable.  This sounds like an indictment on Green.  Starks could get a shot to reclaim the starting job in Green Bay.
5. Andre Brown NYG - Brown may have been dropped in your league, after his concussion cost him a few games.  It looks like Brown, not David Wilson, will be the main benefactor is Brashaw goes down, which is a possibility givens Bradshaw's big workload and foot concerns. Brown even received goal line work that resulted in a TD, in week 7.
6. Shane Vereen NE - Bill Belichick pretty much gave Vereen every possible compliment that you can give a RB, when talking about week 7's game.  Also, in this splurge of superlatives, was the statement that he would like to get Vereen more involved in the running game.  Belichick has switched things up at the RB position, on a whim, before.  Vereen is a good speculative add.
7. Beanie Wells Ari - Wells will be eligible to return in week 12.  He has said that he feels like he can return now, and was put on temporary IR due to a turf toe injury.  The only thing that allows a turf toe injury to heal, is lots of rest.  Wells could return in week 12 fully healed, and ready to help you down the stretch and into the fantasy play offs.
8. Evan Royster Wsh - It still appears that Morris is the main back in Washington, but Royster is a decent speculative add.  If Morris were to get injured, Royster would presumably be the back to step in.  Morris has also run into some trouble fumbling the ball recently.  You never know with Shanahan; the switch could be coming.

 

Wide Receivers

1. Josh Gordon Cle - I've written about Gordon in past weeks, but his production has continued and he still may be out there in 10 team leagues.  Gordon saw 10 targets this past week, and nearly had a second big TD fall just out of his reach.  He is ownable in all formats, and is a decent WR3 with big upside.
2. Santana Moss Wsh - With Pierre Garcon out, I feel like Moss is the most talented WR in Washington, despite his age.  Moss is getting worked into the offense more, and caught 3 passes for 67 yards and 2 TDs in week 7.  Leonard Hankerson did see the most targets, with 8, but Moss is the better option IMO.
3. Titus Young Det - With Nate Burelson out for the season, Young should see more targets.  Young had his first decent game, hail marry excluded, catching 8 passes for 81 yards.  Maybe, now he turns into the WR a lot of experts thought he would be this season.
4. Vincent Brown SD - Vincent Brown should be returning in the next few weeks.  Brown has speed and good hands.  When healthy he would more than likely be a starting WR opposite Malcom Floyd.

 

Tight Ends

1. Dustin Keller NYJ - Keller looked like he has returned to full health.  He caught 7 passes for 93 yards and a TD against the Patriots.  Keller is a talented TE who has had big spurts of production in the past.  He is the most experienced, and possibly most talented, receiving option the Jets have right now.  Keller is worth good FABB money, or a high waiver position, for someone looking for a TE, or someone who just lost Fred Davis.

Week 7 Fantasy Football Rankings

Quarterbacks

1. Drew Brees @ TB
2. Aaron Rodgers @ StL
3. Tom Brady vs NYJ
4. Robert Griffin III @ NYG
5. Eli Manning vs Wsh
6. Ben Roethlisberger @ Cin
7. Andrew Luck vs Cle
8. Tony Romo @ Car
9. Cam Newton vs Dal
10. Andy Dalton vs Pit
11. Joe Flacco @ Hou
12. Mathew Stafford @ Chi
13. Jay Cutler vs Det
14. Josh Freeman vs NO
15. Carson Palmer vs Jac
16. Matt Schaub vs Bal
17. Ryan Fitzpatrick vs Ten
18. Matt Hasselbeck @ Buf
19. Brandon Weeden @ Ind
20. Christian Ponder vs Ari
     

 

Running Backs

1. Arian Foster vs Bal
2. Maurice Jones-Drew @ Oak
3. Ray Rice @ Hou
4. Matt Forte vs Det
5. Trent Richardson @ Ind
6. Darren McFadden vs Jac
7. Adrian Peterson vs Ari
8. Alfred Morris @ NYG
9. Stevan Ridley vs NYJ
10. Doug Martin vs NO
11. C.J. Spiller vs Ten
12. Ahmad Bradshaw vs Wsh
13. Felix Jones @ Car
14. Fred Jackson vs Ten
15. Chris Johnson @ Buf
16. Darren Sproles @ TB
17. Steven Jackson vs GB
18. BenJarvus Green-Ellis vs Pit
19. Mikel Leshoure @ Chi
20. Alex Green @ StL
21. Jonathan Dwyer @ Cin
22. Michael Bush vs Det
23. Vick Ballard vs Cle
24. William Powell @ Min
25. Ben Tate vs Bal
26. Jonathan Stewart vs Dal
27. Daryl Richardson vs GB
28. Deangello Williams vs Dal
29. Shonn Greene @ NE
30. Legarrette Blount vs NO
31. Phillip Tanner @ Car
32. Pierre Thomas @ TB
33. Danny Woodhead vs NYJ
34. Montario Hardesty @ Ind
35. Mike Goodson vs Jac
36. David Wilson vs Wsh
37. Andre Brown vs Wsh
38. Jamie Harper @ Buf
39. Cedric Peerman vs Pit
     

 

Wide Receivers

1. A.J. Green vs Pit
2. Victor Cruz vs Wsh
3. Brandon Marshall vs Det
4. Wes Welker vs NYJ
5. Calvin Johnson @ Chi
6. Marques Colston @ TB
7. Percy Harvin vs Ari
8. Mike Wallace @ Cin
9. Larry Fitzgerald @ Min
10. Reggie Wayne vs Cle
11. Hakeem Nicks vs Wsh
12. Stevie Johnson vs Ten
13. Miles Austin @ Car
14. Vincent Jackson vs NO
15. Jordy Nelson @ StL
16. Torrey Smith @ Hou
17. James Jones @ StL
18. Dez Bryant @ Car
19. Denarius Moore vs Jac
20. Andre Johnson vs Bal
21. Antonio Brown @ Cin
22. Mike Williams vs NO
23. Kenny Brit @ Buf
24. Brandon Lloyd vs NYJ
25. Donnie Avery vs Cle
26. Lance Moore @ TB
27. Jeremy Kerley @ NE
28. Randall Cobb @ StL
29. Josh Gordon @ Ind
30. Anquan Boldin @ Hou
31. Kendall Wright @ Buf
32. Domenick Hixon vs Wsh
33. Nate Washington @ Buf
34. Darrius Heyward-Bey vs Jac
35. Justin Blackmon @ Oak
36. Andre Roberts @ Min
37. Stephen Hill @ NE
38. Andrew Hawkins vs Pit
39. Santana Moss @ NYG
40. Brandon Gibson @ Ind

 

Tight Ends

1. Rob Gronkowski vs NYJ
2. Jason Witten @ Car
3. Owen Daniels vs Bal
4. Aaron Hernandez vs NYJ
5. Kevin Rudolph vs Ari
6. Jimmy Graham @ TB
7. Heath Miller @ Cin
8. Scott Chandler vs Ten
9. Jermaine Gresham vs Pit
10. Jared Cook @ Buf
11. Martellus Bennett vs Wsh
12. Fred Davis @ NYG
13. Brandon Pettigrew @ Chi
14. Greg Olsen vs Dal
15. Dennis Pitta @ Hou
16. Jermichael Finley @ StL
17. Brandon Meyers vs Jac
18. Marcedes Lewis @ Oak
19. Coby Fleener vs Cle
20. Rob Housler @ Min
     

 

Defenses

1. Chicago Bears vs Det
2. Minnesota Vikings vs Min
3. Green Bay Packers @ StL
4. Arizona Cardinals @ Min
5. New England Patriots vs NYJ
6. Houston Texans vs Bal
7. New York Giants vs Wsh
8. Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cin
9. Detroit Lions @ Chi
10. Dallas Cowboys @ Car
11. Cincinnati Bengals vs Pit
12. Cleveland Browns @ Ind
13. Baltimore Ravens @ Hou
14. New York Jets @ NE
15. Buffalo Bills vs Ten
16. Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs NO
17. Oakland Raiders vs Jac
18. St. Louis Rams vs GB
19. Washington Redskins @ NYG
20. Carolina Panthers vs Dal

TheFFBI's Most Wanted: Week 7 Waiver Wire Pick Ups

This week there are 6 teams on bye; Atlanta, Denver, Kansas City, Miami, Philadelphia, and San Diego.  With all of these teams on bye, owners in your league may have to make some difficult decisions on who to drop.  This makes checking out who was dropped this week almost as important as who you are picking up today.  Depending on how your league works, there could be some big names to pick up when waivers clear Saturday. 

 

Running Backs

1. Felix Jones Dal - Demarco Murray is out for at least the week 7 match up against the Panthers.  The Cowboys say that it is just a sprained foot, and Jerry Jones is optimistic that Murray will only miss this week.  That being said, you never know with foot injuries, especially when they rule out a player for next week on Tuesday.  Jones could have some value going past week 7, if Murray re-injures his foot when he comes back, or if the Cowboys can continue to run the ball with the success they had against a severely injured Baltimore defense.  I wouldn't waste a #1 waiver claim, or a whole lot of your FABB budget, on Jones, unless you really need a RB for week 7.  The season changing injuries that produce waiver wire gold, have yet to happen.
2. Daryl Richardson StL - Last week, we saw a split in carries between a healthy Steven Jackson and Daryl Richardson.  Richardson turned his 11 carries into 76 yards, and also caught two passes for 23 yards against a really tough Miami defense.  Richardson showed why he should be kept in the offensive game plan, with his impressive performance and his 44 yard run.  If Jackson gets injured,  Richardson would be a RB2.  If the split in carries continue, he will be a good flex play in good match ups/bye week fill in.
3. Montario Hardesty Cle - Trent Richardson says he should be able to go next week, despite his day to day status with a rib injury. It was interesting that Hardesty did get a series running the ball, before Richardson left with an injury. Hardesty is a talented RB. He was taken in the second round, and was expected to be a significant part of the offense, before the team drafted Richardson. If Richardson is unable to go this week, Hardesty has a very good match up against the Colts, who allowed Shonn Greene's ridiculous week 6 game.  Hardesty is a must own for Trent Richardson owners.
4. Isaac Redman/Baron Batch Pit - Both Redman and Mendenhall are day to day, Redman with a knee injury and Mendenhall with an achilles injury.  Redman's injury seems less serious, but we won't know much about these injuries until Sunday.  Redman was very involved in the passing game in week 6, catching 4 balls for 105 yards.  With both RBs questionable, Batch could turn into a very good option this week, with 6 teams on bye week.
5. Shane Vereen NE - Stevan Ridley dropped an easy screen pass in week 6, and was subsequently benched for Brandon Bolden.  Ridley did come back in the game, when Bolden left with a knee injury, which doesn't appear very serious.  Belichick's patience could be wearing thin with Ridley, who also had fumbles in consecutive games heading into week 6.  Vereen, who had a week 5 goal line TD, is worth a speculative add, in case Belichick switches around the RB rotation.
6. Bryce Brown Phi - Lesean McCoy briefly left the game last week with an ankle injury.  He was able to return and finish the game.  Brown is a talented rookie from Kansas State, who beat out last year's backup Dion Lewis in training camp.  If McCoy were to get injured, Brown would be the RB in Philadelphia.

 

Wide Receivers

1. Donnie Avery Ind - Avery is the second WR to own in Indianapolis.  Avery is 24th in the league in targets, with 47 and 12 coming in week 6, despite having already had his bye week.  The high volume of targets, and Avery's break away speed, should translate into big weeks as the season goes on.  The Colt's schedule is also very pass friendly going forward.
2. Brandon Gibson StL - In the Ram's first game P.A., post Amendola,  Gibson saw 9 targets and caught 7 of those for 91 yards. We have also seen Gibson get used in the red zone and make big plays earlier this season. 
3. Josh Gordon Cle - I wrote about Gordon last week, but his consecutive weeks of big plays warrant more attention.  In week 6 Gordon turned 3 of his 4 targets into 99 yards and a TD.  Gordon's play has drawn high praise from his team mates and coaching staff.  Gordon will have some turrrble 1 or 2 catch games for 11 yards, but his big play potential makes him interesting as a bye week fill in guy.
4. Chris Givens StL - The rookie Givens, followed up his 5 targets for one big 51 yard TD with 7 targets for 3 catches for 85 yards.  Givens obviously has big play potential, but he is still a rookie and big play guys are usually inconsistent.
5. Stephen Hill NYJ - Hill caught 3 passes for 31 yards and a TD in week 6.  Kerley still looks like the best Jets WR, but Hill is an option for someone who is desperate at WR.
    

 

Tight Ends

1. Brandon Myers Oak - Myers remains a part of the Raider's passing game. He has been consistently geting around 6 points a game, which is good production from the TE spot.
2. Anthany Fasano Mia - Fasano has seen a decent amount of red zone targets, and has caught 2 TDs on the year. He is a decent bye week fill in guy.
3. Tom Crabtree GB - Crabtree turned his 3 targets into 2 catches for 62 yards and a TD, in the Packers passing explosion.  He could see some targets next week, if Finley remains hobbled.  It would be a risky play, because it could be D.J. Williams catching passes as well.
 

Week 6 Fantasy Football Rankings

Quarterbacks

1. Matt Ryan vs Oak
2. Aaron Rodgers @ Hou
3. Peyton Manning @ SD
4. Michael Vick vs Det - Home against a bad secondary, Vick has his first big game.
5. Philip Rivers vs Den - Rivers has great career numbers against the Broncos.
6. Eli Manning @ SF - Bad match up on the road, but Eli did well against this same defense in the NFC championship game.
7. Mathew Stafford @ Phi - Two weeks to prepare for this game, and get the offense back on track.
8. Andrew Luck @ NYJ - I believe in Luck.  He has done good, and has room to improve still.
9. Robert Griffin III - Players who have sustained recent concussions, are more susceptible to getting a concussion.  They are going against a really good pass rush.  I think the Redskins limit his rushing attempts to keep him healthy, thus limiting his fantasy potential.
10. Tom Brady @ Sea - I think it's a low scoring game.  Seattle has allowed the fewest points to QBs, and they are at home.
11. Joe Flacco vs Dal - Flacco is much better at home.
12. Christian Ponder @ Wsh
13. Matt Schaub vs GB
14. Tony Romo @ Bal
15. Alex Smith vs NYG
16. Andy Dalton @ Cle - Joe Haden returns to the Cleveland secondary.
17. Carson Palmer @ Atl - Garbage time production in 4th quarter.
18. Kevin Kolb vs Buf
19. Brandon Weeden vs Cin
20. Josh Freeman vs KC

 

Running Backs

1. Arian Foster vs GB
2. Lesean McCoy vs Det
3. Ray Rice vs Dal
4. Trent Richardson vs Cin
5. Jamaal Charles @ TB
6. Frank Gore vs NYG
7. Marshawn Lynch vs NE
8. Adrian Peterson @ Wsh
9. Reggie Bush vs StL
10. Ryan Mathews vs Den - He's not injured.  Yet.
11. Darren McFadden @ Atl - Maybe he studied game film on the bye week, to find the holes he has been missing in the zone blocking scheme.
12. Michael Turner vs Oak
13. Alfred Morris vs Min -  Vikings run defense has been great, but it is slightly skewed, due to inferior competition.
14. Willis McGahee @ SD
15. Doug Martin vs KC - If he doesn't get anything done this week, he might be a match up play/flex going forward.
16. Demarco Murray @ Bal - The Cowboys have such a bad O line.
17. Benjarvus Green-Ellis @ Cle -  The law firm doesn't look like workhorse RB that the Bengals might have thought he could be.  But, he still gets the carries.
18. Mikel LeShoure @ Phi
19. Ahmad Bradshaw @ SF
20. Stevan Ridley @ Sea - Fumbles in two straight weeks.  Belichick might switch things up soon.
21. C.J. Spiller @ Ari
22. Vick Ballard @ NYJ
23. Shonn Greene vs Ind - I think this might be one of the only good games Shonn Green has this year.  The Colts front seven is pretty banged up.  I hate myself for ranking him here.
24. Steven Jackson @ Mia
25. Fred Jackson @ Ari
26. Larod Stephens-Howling vs Buf
27. Alex Green @ Hou
28. William Powell vs Buf
29. Brandon Bolden @ Sea
30. Kendall Hunter vs NYG
31. Jacquizz Rodgers vs Oak
32. Danny Woodhead @ Sea
33. John Kuhn @ Hou - I feel like he is the best bet to get a TD out of the GB trio.
34. James Starks @ Hou
35. Bilal Powell vs Ind
36. David Wilson @ SF

 

Wide Receivers

1.  Calvin Johnson @ Phi
2. Percy Harvin @ Wsh
3. Roddy White vs Oak
4. Julio Jones vs Oak
5. Dwayne Bowe @ TB
6. A.J. Green @ Cle - The match up with Joe Haden is something to be concerned about, but you can't bench Green.
7. Demaryius Thomas @ SD
8. Miles Austin @ Bal
9. Desean Jackson vs Det
10. Victor Cruz @ SF
11. Reggie Wayne @ NYJ - Antonio Cromartie is playing his best football in years.  Wayne still should get good production, with the amount of targets he gets.
12. Wes Welker @ Sea - Its a tough match up but Welker excels at finding space in defenses, and could be used in short passing situations if the running game struggles.
13. Larry Fitzgerald vs Buf
14. Andre Johnson vs GB - I think the Texans make it a point to get Johnson involved this week.
15. Eric Decker @ SD
16. Jordy Nelson @ Hou
17. Vincent Jackson vs KC
18. Jeremy Maclin vs Det
19. Torrey Smith vs Dal
20. Brandon Lloyd @ Sea
21. Malcom Floyd vs Den
22. Hakeem Nicks @ SF - This is where I would rank him, if he plays. If he does play, he might see limited snaps.
23. Brian Hartline vs StL
24. Michael Crabtree vs NYG - Crabtree looked really good on the coaches tape last week.
25. James Jones @ Hou
26. Denarius Moore @ Atl
27. Dez  Bryant @ Bal
28. Steve Johnson @ Ari - Chan Gailey will move him around, but he will be primarily matched up with Patrick Peterson.
29. Mario Manningham vs NYG - Revenge game.  They will look to get him the ball.
30. Jeremy Kerley vs Ind
31. Andrew Hawkins @ Cle - Hawkins could benefit from the coverage on A.J. Green.
32. Anquan Boldin vs Dal
33. Randall Cobb @ Hou
34. Andre Roberts vs Buf
35. Donnie Avery @ NYJ
36. Davone Bess vs StL - Bess has been lining up outside the numbers and not just running slot routes.
37. Darrius Heyward-Bey @ Atl
38. Nate Burleson @ Phi
39. Andre Roberts vs Buf
40. Mike Williams vs KC

 

Tight Ends

1. Tony Gonzalez vs Oak
2. Vernon Davis vs NYG
3. Owen Daniels vs GB - Daniels leads the Texans in every receiving stat category.  He looks like a top 5 TE going forward.
4. Rob Gronkowski @ Sea - The Gronk has been limited by a hip injury.
5. Kyle Rudolph @ Wsh
6. Brent Celek vs Det
7. Jason Witten @ Bal
8. Antonio Gates vs Den - Gates will bounce back this year.  He hasn't lost a step and still looks good on film.
9. Fred Davis vs Min
10. Dennis Pitta vs Dal
11. Brandon Pettigrew @ Phi
12. Aaron Hernandez @ Sea
13. Scott Chandler @ Ari
14. Jermain Gresham @ Cle
15. Jacob Tamme @ SD
16. Martellus Bennett @ SF - According to Bennet he "messed some sh*t up in his knee".  It has been listed as a hyper extended knee, but could be something worse.
17. Jermichael Finley @ Hou - He is questionable right now.  If he doesn't go, D.J. Williams would be a good play in this spot.
18. Joel Dreesen @ SD
19. Coby Fleener @ NYJ
20. Zach Miller vs NE - If Miller does good again this week he should be a pick up, who could have real value if the Seahawks go to Matt Flynn.

 

Defenses

1. Arizona Cardinals vs Buf
2. Baltimore Ravens vs Dal
3. San Francisco 49ers vs NYG
4. Houston Texans vs GB
5. Atlanta Falcons vs Oak
6. Philadelphia Eagles vs Det
7. Miami Dolphins vs StL
8. Minnesota Vikings @ Wsh
9. Seattle Seahawks vs NE
10. St. Louis Rams @ Mia
11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs KC
12. New England Patriots @ Sea
13. Dallas Cowboys @ Bal
14. Cincinatti Bengals @ Cle
15. Green Bay Packers @ Hou
16. New York Giants @ SF
17. Kansas City Chiefs @ TB
18. Denver Broncos @ SD
19. Cleveland Browns vs Cin
20. San Diego Chargers vs Den

Jordy Nelson Week 5 Film Review

Jordy Nelson is someone who has not lived up to fantasy football expectations this year.  He hasn't killed you in 3 out of 5 games this year, which is similar to his start last year.  Last year, he was catching long TD passes.  This year, the offensive line is not giving Aaron Rodgers enough time to throw deep on most plays. 

Watching the week 5 coaches film,  Nelson got open on several deep routes.  Rodgers had to look to shorter passing routes on those plays, due to defensive pressure.  There were also several shorter routes that Nelson was open on, but Rodgers went to different open targets.  On the three out of five targets that Nelson did not catch, he was double or triple covered, and did not have much separation.  Getting Greg Jennings back may help alleviate some of these double coverage situations.

In summary, Nelson is a volatile WR2 this year.  The big plays won't be there as often this year.  He won't perform as well against defenses that have good pass rushers.  Getting Greg Jennings back will help a little bit, but it doesn't change the fact that Nelson's value comes from big plays and Rodgers doesn't have the time to wait for him to get open.

TheFFBI's Most Wanted: Week 6 Waiver Wire Pick Ups

If you like TheFFBI, enter your email to the right, to be notified when new articles are posted.  If you have any questions about other positions/players, or who to drop, you can comment below, email me at theFFBI@gmail.com, find me on twitter @theFFBI, or find TheFFBI on facebook.

 

Running Backs

1.  Alex Green/John Kuhn/James Starks GB - Cedric Benson will miss at least the next 8 weeks with a lisfranc sprain.  This situation looks like it will be a committee between these three RBs.  I would place their value in the same order I have them listed.  Green is worth the number one waiver wire spot.  Green showed some good burst on his 41 yard run this past weekend, and has the best chance to get a big workload.  Kuhn is the best pass blocker, and could be the third down back, along with getting goal line carries.  James Starks was slated to be the starter at the beginning of the season, but has been getting over a turf toe injury.  He is supposed to be healthy now, but turf toe can sometimes linger all season long.  Starks is a good add, because we don't really know how the backfield snaps will be split.   EDIT:  Coach Mike McCarthy has voiced his concerns about Green's lack of pass blocking skills.  He implied that James Starks will get the start, but that it will be a committee between Starks, Green, Kuhn, and Brandon Saine.  It doesn't appear that any of these RBs may be worth a number one waiver, unless you a very desperate.  The order I would pick them up in is; James Starks, Alex Green, and John Kuhn.
2. Jahvid Best Det - Best is due to be reevaluated for his concussion symptoms this week, to determine if he will be removed from the PUP list next week.  If Best returns, he will have fresh legs and could have a significant role in the offense.  They would more than likely ease him into action, but he could be a good bye week help or flex player with even as little as 15 touches a game.  Hes worth a bench spot for a few weeks, on the chance that he returns.
3. David Wilson NYG - Wilson's 40 yard TD run may have been enough to get him out of Tom Coughlin's dog house.  There was a reason many fantasy analyst liked Wilson after his impressive preseason running.  Andre Brown's concussion, and lack of pass blocking skills, may give Wilson the opportunity he needs to earn a niche in the offense. 
4. William Powell/Larod Stephens-Howling/Alfonso Smith AZ - I really don't like any 3 of these RBs.  One of them may get a majority of the carries, but would that really be all that valuable running behind one of the leagues worst O lines?  I think it is a platoon situation and you won't be able to count on any of these guys.  But, if you are desperate for bye week depth, I would pick them up in the order I listed. 

 

Wide Receivers

1.  Jeremy Kerley NYJ - The Jet's offense stinks.  But, someone has to catch the ball, and it looks like Kerley is the best candidate.  Kerley has made some big plays this year and got a good number of targets on Monday night.  He could be a bye week WR3 or flex fill in guy, with a little upside.
2. Josh Gordon Cle - Cleveland is searching for someone to step up at the WR position.  Gordon is a talented but raw rookie WR.  He caught 2 TD passes, one for 62 and another for 20, this last weekend.  Weeden, and the Brown's offense in general, isn't as bad as many believed.  There is a chance that Gordon develops into something useful this year.
3. Earl Bennett Chi - With Alshon Jeffrey expected to miss the next 4 to 6 weeks, Bennett could see some increase in targets.  Bennett is on a bye this week, but if you are looking fro some bye week depth in weeks 7- 10, Bennett might be a decent option.  Bennett has had success in the past, and there is always the fact that he played with Cutler one year in college.

 



Week 5 Fantasy Football Rankings

Quarterbacks

1. Aaron Rodgers @ Ind
2. Matt Ryan @ Wsh
3. Drew Brees home vs SD
4. Tom Brady home vs Den
5. Robert Griffin III home vs Atl
6. Peyton Manning @ NE
7. Eli Manning home vs Cle
8. Joe Flacco @ KC
9. Philip Rivers @ NO
10. Michael Vick @ Pit
11. Ben Roethlisberger home vs Phi
12. Andy Dalton home vs Mia
13. Cam Newton home vs Sea - I think Seattle can lock down Steve Smith and limit Cam's runs.
14. Christian Ponder home vs Ten
15. Andrew Luck home vs GB
16. Jay Cutler @ Jac
17. Matt Schaub @ NYJ
18. Ryan Tannehill @ Cin
19. Alex Smith home vs Buf
20. Russell Wilson @ Car - If you are desperate and there isn't anything on the waiver wire.  Carolina's defense is turrrble.

 

Running Backs

1. Ray Rice @ KC
2. Arian Foster @ NYJ
3. Marshawn Lynch @ Car
4. Adrian Peterson home vs Ten
5. Frank Gore home vs Buf
6. Lesean McCoy @ Pit
7. Jamaal Charles home vs Bal
8. Trent Richardson @ NYG
9. Maurice Jones-Drew @ Chi
10. Reggie Bush @ Cin
11. Alfred Morris @ Atl
12. Matt Forte @ Jac
13. Willis McGahee @ NE
14. Cedric Benson @ Ind
15. Stevan Ridley home vs Den
16. Michael Turner @ Wsh
17. Ahmad Bradshaw home vs Cle
18. Darren Sproles home vs SD
19. Ryan Mathews @ NO
20. BenJarus Green-Ellis home vs Mia
21. Chris Johnson @ Min - It gets bad quick from here on down, with 4 teams on bye.
22. C.J. Spiller @ SF
23. Jackie Battle @ NO
24. Donald Brown home vs GB
25. Michael Bush @ Jac
26. Fred Jackson @ SF
27. Rashard Mendenhall home vs Phi
28. Pierre Thomas home vs SD
29. Brandon Bolden home vs Den
30. Jonathan Stewart home vs Sea
31. Deangello Williams home vs Sea
32. Andre Brown home vs Cle - Giants coaching staff comes out and says Brown can't pass block.
33. Jacquizz Rodgers @ Wsh
34. Kendall Hunter home vs Buf
35. Mark Ingram home vs SD

 

Wide Receivers

1. A.J. Green home vs Mia
2. Roddy White @ Wsh
3. Brandon Marshall @ Jac
4. Percy Harvin home vs Ten
5. Victor Cruz home vs Cle
6. Julio Jones @ Wsh
7. Mike Wallace home vs Phi
8. Jordy Nelson @ Ind
9. Andre Johnson @ NYJ
10. Wes Welker home vs Den
11. Brandon Lloyd home vs Den
12. Reggie Wayne home vs GB
13. Dwayne Bowe home vs Bal
14. Antonio Brown home vs Phi
15. Eric Decker @ NE
16. Desean Jackson @ Pit
17. Demaryius Thomas @ NE
18. Torrey Smith @ KC
19. Marques Colston home vs SD
20. Malcom Floyd @ NO
21. Steve Smith home vs Sea
22. Brian Hartline @ Cin
23. Jeremy Maclin @ Pit
24. James Jones @ Ind
25. Steve Johnson @ SF
26. Domenik Hixon home vs Cle
27. Pierre Garcon home vs Atl
28. Donnie Avery home vs GB
29. Andrew Hawkins home vs Mia
30. Randall Cobb @ Ind
31. Kendall Wright @ Min
32. Jerome Simpson home vs Ten
33. Nate Washington @ Min
34. Anquan Boldin @ KC
35. Davone Bess @ Cin
36. Greg Little @ NYG
37. Brandon Lafell home vs Sea
38. Michael Crabtree home vs Buf
39. Robert Meachem @ NO - nice flier if you believe in revenge games.
40. Justin Blackmon home vs Chi
41. Joe Morgan home vs SD - flier with upside.  Saints beat writers love this guy.

 

Tight Ends

1. Jimmy Graham home vs SD
2. Rob Gronkowski home vs Den
3. Tony Gonzalez @ Wsh
4. Antonio Gates @ NO
5. Vernon Davis home vs Buf
6. Kyle Rudolph home vs Ten
7. Martellus Bennett home vs Cle
8. Owen Daniels @ NYJ
9. Dennis Pitta @ KC
10. Jermichael Finley @ Ind
11. Fred Davis home vs Atl
12. Heath Miller home vs Phi
13. Greg Olsen home vs Sea
14. Brent Celek @ Pit
15. Jared Cook @ Min
16. Jacob Tamme @ NE
17. Anthony Fasano @ Cin
18. Marcedes Lewis home vs Chi
19. Coby Fleener home vs GB
20. Scott Chandler @ SF

 

Defenses

1. Houston Texans @ NYJ
2. Sanfrancisco 49ers home vs Buf
3. Baltimore Ravens @ KC
4. Chicago Bears @ Jac
5. New York Giants home vs Cle
6. Seattle Seahawks @ Car
7. Minnesota Vikings home vs Ten
8. Atlanta Falcons @ Wsh
9. Green Bay Packers @ Ind
10. Miami Dolphins @ Cin
11. Pittsburgh Steelers home vs Phi
12. Philadelphia Eagles @ Pit
13. New England Patriots home vs Den
14. Cincinatti Bengals home vs Mia
15. Cleveland Browns @ NYG
16. Carolina Panthers home vs Sea
17. Jacksonville Jaguars home vs CHi
18. Denver Broncos @ NE
19. New York Jets home vs Hou
20. San Diego Chargers @ NO

Ball Street: Quarterly Fantasy Football Player Values

These rankings are how I view these player's values at this current time, and going forward.  You can use this list for trade values, and in general as a basis for you to start thinking about what you view player values as going forward. 

 

A short while into writing this article, I realized how difficult it was to try and put a definitive value on all of the relevant players in fantasy football.  You have to balance player expectations against what the results have actually been.  Injuries have to be figured in for certain players, or players that have greater injury risk.  We find players in the top of fantasy scoring that don't quite fit; like Ryan Fitzpatrick 4th in QB scoring or Andre Roberts 3rd in WR scoring.  Lots of things will have changed, even in the next 3 weeks, when I go to write my next player value article.  Forecasting these changes was something I enjoyed, and helped me get a better sense of player value than I had before writing it.

 

If you like the article, enter your email address to the right, to be notified when new articles come out.  Please let me know what you think, or where you think I'm wrong, by commenting below, emailing me theFFBI@gmail.com, or find me on twitter @theFFBI.

 

Quarterbacks

1. Tom Brady NE - The Patriot's O line is starting to get healthy and block better.  Brady has a ton of weapons and will continue to grow chemistry with Brandon Lloyd.
2. Aaron Rodgers GB - The Packer's O line is holding this offense back.  Rodgers and the GB offense will struggle against defenses with a  good pass rush, unless they can fix their issues. 
3. Drew Brees NO - The Saints' defense is turrrble.  Brees will always be put in passing situations.
4. Matt Ryan Atl - Ryan has one of the best receiving trios in Julio Jones, Roddy White, and Tony Gonzalez.  It looks like this is the year he jumps from 10-14 into the top 5 fantasy QB discussion.
5. Robert Griffn III Wsh - RGIII has been great through the first quarter of the year.  Most of his fantasy value comes from his legs, and scoring rushing TDs.  I expect this to continue, and could see him getting 14 TDs at the end of the year.  The concern is that he will get injured.  Running the read option for a full season will take quite a toll on his health.
6. Cam Newton Car - It would be nice to see more consistency from Cam's rushing production.  He has had two great weeks running the football, and two bad weeks.  Most of his value will come from running the ball this year.  Through 4 weeks, it doesn't appear that Newton will repeat his passing numbers from last year.
7. Peyton Manning Den - I'm not in the camp of people that think Manning's arm strength is a major detractor to his production.  His O line play, and chemistry with his receivers, are improving on a weekly basis.
8. Eli Manning NYG - Eli rarely kills you, and he has the potential to win you some weeks.  They have depth at the receiver position to hold them over until Nicks is healthy, and he has a great new red zone target in Bennett.
9. Mathew Stafford Det - The Lions offense looks out of sync so far this year.  This isn't a group that has had a ton of turn over, and their O line is playing well.  We've seen Stafford put up huge numbers last year.  Hopefully they use the bye week to get things right.
10. Michael Vick Phi - Last week showed us that there is hope that Vick can play without turnovers and still get out and run some.  Modest rushing totals, and a few rushing TDs, will put him in the top 10. 
11. Philip Rivers SD - Rivers has top 5 QB talent.  A sub par O line and receiving goup, are holding him back from living up to his potential.  We've seen him put up huge numbers with no name receivers before, so there is hope.  Gates returning to from would go a long way to help Rivers move up this list.
12. Ben Roethlisberger Pit - A struggling ground game ensures that the Steelers will remain a pass oriented offense.  Roethlisberger has one of the best WR trios in the league, and a great red zone target in Heath Miller.
13. Joe Flacco Bal - The Ravens are holding true to their promise to throw the ball more this season.  Flacco is surrounded by offensive talent and will continue to hover on the QB1 fringe.
14. Ryan Fitzpatrick Buf - Fitzpatrick has been one of the best fantasy QBs this year.  There are reasons to think this will continue.  Chan Gailey is a very underrated offensive play caller, the Bills have excellent receiving options, and the Bills have a good up and coming O line.  However, Fitzpatrick struggles with turnovers and hasn't put together a good full season yet.
15. Tony Romo Dal - Much like Rivers, the Cowboys' O line and receivers are letting him down in a big way.  Romo doesn't have much time to throw and his receivers, namely Dez Bryant, have had issues dropping the ball.
16. Andy Dalton Cin - Dalton has been very productive thus far, throwing for 3 TDs in 4 games.  He has one of the best WRs in the game and a good supporting cast to compliment Green.  The only reason Dalton is this low is the fact that he is unproven and still a young QB.
17. Matt Schaub Hou - Schaub is a great real life QB, but is a prisoner of his offense.  Schaub will have some good games, but he is on a run first team that runs more than 60% of the time in the red zone. 
18. Andrew Luck Ind - The Colts have a turrrble O line that doesn't give Luck much time to throw.  However, Luck has good receivers and will usually be playing from behind.  Luck will be an interesting 12-16 QB pick next year, if the Colt's improve his O line.
19. Christian Ponder Min - Ponder is a great bye week fill in player.  He usually gives you some rushing production and will have some good days passing.  The problem is that Ponder is in a conservative run first and short pass offense.  Minnesota has yet to give Ponder the green light to use his big arm and go deep.
20. Carson Palmer Oak - I would like Palmer a lot more if he had his full compliment of WRs.  He has struggled with accuracy, but he is throwing a ton and putting up decent numbers.

Running Backs

1. Arian Foster Hou - Foster's 3.7 YPC is pretty underwhelming, but the big plays are sure to come for Foster.  He is the Texans' offense.
2. Ray Rice Bal - Rice is one of the best combinations of touches and talent in fantasy.
3. LeSean McCoy Phi - McCoy hasn't put up the top 3 production that you drafted, but he has been robbed of some big plays by penalties.  McCoy's top 3 talent should rise to the surface as the season continues.
4. Maurice Jones-Drew Jac - Jones-Drew's O line is getting healthier and he is continuing to work himself back into top form, after holding out of training camp.  He had a great season last year, and this season his O line and offense is better than it was.
5. Jamaal Charles KC - Charles is on pace for a career high in carries.  The week 2 knee scare was quickly dismissed after two great performances.  His knee is still a small concern though.
6. Marshawn Lynch Sea - Lynch has carried over last year's impressive play into this season.  He is running hard, and is the focal point of the offense.  His schedule does get very tough at the end of the season, so keep that in mind.  His occasional back spasms are also a good reason to own Robert Turbin.
7. Adrian Peterson Min - Peterson looks better and better each week.  He is running hard and fearlessly, but you can tell he doesn't have his lateral speed back yet.
8. Trent Richardson Cle - Cleveland's O line is not as bad as I previously thought.  Richardson also looks much better as a pass catcher than I thought he would be.  He is a workhorse back, who can put up numbers even if his offense is struggling.
9. Frank Gore SF - Gore isn't catching as many balls as he has in the past, but he is still running hard and getting used in the red zone.
10. Willis McGahee Den - McGahee has looked very good, and is on pace for a career high in catches. 
11. C.J. Spiller Buf - Once Spiller is healthy, I think he can be a top fantasy RB, even if Fred Jackson is the starter.  We have seen running backs with similar skill sets be productive with 16 touches a game.
12. Reggie Bush Mia - Bush's change in running style has been amazing.  He no longer dances, or runs to the edges, looking for big plays.  He hits his holes hard and gets what is there.  Jorvorskie Lane will get into his red zone attempts, hurting his value some.
13. Alfred Morris Wsh - Morris may have broken the curse of Shanahan RBs.  He is easily the best RB on the roster, and the only one I thought would challenge him, Roy Helu, is on IR.
14. Matt Forte Chi - Forte's injury concerns drop his value some.  When healthy his rushing and receiving totals, make him very reliable.
15. Michael Turner Atl - It looks like Turner's skills are diminishing, but he is still getting lots of opportunity.  He has been productive, despite splitting snaps with Jacquizz.
16. Darren McFadden Oak - McFadden's best years have been when he was running in a power running scheme.  He is now in a zone blocking scheme.  He also looked bad in a zone blocking scheme when the Raiders ran it before.  You can't blame it all on the O line and scheme, McFadden is missing some holes and running to the edges.  This is something that he could get better at as the season goes on.
17. BenJarvus Green-Ellis Cin - The law firm has been solid, but the three fumbles are a bit concerning.  He is a safe RB@ who should always get you yards, but remember, Cedric Benson didn't get many TDs in this offense.
18. Stevan Ridley NE - Ridley would be an easy pick for the top ten, maybe top 5, if we knew for sure what his week to week role was.  Woodhead comes in for the hurry up.  People close to the team say Bolden will be the goal line back going forward.  Shane Vereen is just getting healthy.  There are lots of things that point to Ridley being an inconsistent RB, as the Patriots use different personnel week to week to exploit match ups they see.
19. Fred Jackson Buf - Jackson has lots of talent and should remain productive in a time share with Spiller, as long as he can stay healthy.
20. Cedric Benson GB -  Benson is a solid RB2 who is getting a surprising amount of touches in one of the best offenses in the league.  The Packers pass more than run in the end zone, so the TDs might not be there in bunches this year.  In a RB scene full of uncertainty, Benson gives you the comfort of having consistent touches.
21. Ahmad Bradshaw NYG - I don't think the Andre Brown time share affects Bradshaw that much.  Bradshaw has excellent talent and should be a good RB2, when healthy.
22. Mikel LeShoure Det - The Lions' offensive line has been opening up decent holes in the running game.  LeShoure ran strong in his debut, and ran into a very tough match up last week.  You can count on LeShoure to give you consistent touches in an offense that has been explosive in the past.
23. DeMarco Murray Dal - Murray has top 5 talent.  The Cowboys' O line hasn't been giving him any running room, and their offense is struggling in general.  Murray is also an injury risk to boot.
24. Ryan Mathews SD - There are lots of reasons not to like Mathews; bad O line, injury risk who mostly plays in late games, the Jackie Battle situation, and he has no history of consistent production.  He has the talent to do well running and catch the ball, but you have to factor in everything above.  Head Ache.
25. Darren Sproles NO - Sproles is the only Saints RB you can trust, and he doesn't run the ball.  Sproles is essentially Percy Harvin.  He is involved in the passing game, and gets the occasional carries.
26. Doug Martin TB - Martin has not lived up to the pre-season hype so far.  He has struggeld againt some tough run defenses.  The coaching staff has not waivered in their support of him, with the exception of giving Blount a goal line carry last week.  Easier match ups are coming.
27. Michael Bush Chi - Bush gets a consistent amount of touches, and most of the goal line carries.  He is a good flex option, except when facing top 5 run defenses.
28. Steven Jackson StL - Jackson looks like he is starting to put this groin injury behind him.  He runs behind a bad O line and plays in a very mundane offense.  The reports that this is his last year in St. Louis could motivate him to be very productive, while looking to sign a new contract in the off-season, or it could be a harbringer of St. Louis wanting to see what they have in Daryl Richardson.
29. Chris Johnson Ten - The Titan's O line looked much improved against a good run D in Houston last week.  I'm still not ready to say Johnson is back to being productive, but its a good sign for his value. I would still be hesitant to start him as anything but a flex.
30. Rashard Mendenhall Pit - Mendenhall returns from injury to join an under performing backfield.  Part of the reason the Steelers haven't been running the ball well, is their O line.  I think Mendenhall will be eased into the rotation, and I don't see him as much more than a flex/bye week guy for the rest of the year. 
31. Ryan Williams Ari - Williams has no real competition for the lead back job in Arizona.  He has had two straight flops at proving he can be a starting running back.  I'm not a big fan of his skill, but there could be opportunity here, if they keep giving him the work.
32. Donald Brown Ind - Brown has been underwhelming so far this year.  The Colts haven't said anything about replacing him yet, so there should still be work for Brown.  Brown is a decent flex/bye week guy, with upside for more if the Colts can get the ground game going behind a bad O line.
33. Jonthan Stewart Car - I view both of the Carolina backs as decent fill in plays.  You don't know which one is going to get the TD from week to week, and that is the only way they will have much value.  There is also still Mike Tolbert and Cam Newton to steal away carries and TDs.
34. DeAngello Williams Car -  ^^^
35. Andre Brown NYG - I'm not a big believer in the Andre Brown will remain productive hype.  Kevin Gilbride is already talking about getting first round pick David Wilson more involved in the running game.  We've seen three RBs be decently productive before, but I don't know if you will able to count on consistency from Brown.  I feel like he needs a high volume of carries and or goal line work to be productive.
36. Jacquizz Rodgers Atl - Rodgers has been seeing a decent amount of snaps at RB this year.  We have yet to see his speed result in big plays. 
37. Kendall Hunter SF - Hunter is one of the better backup RBs to own.  If Gore goes down, he becomes a top 15 back.  He also gets 12 to 8 touches a week and is a desperation start at RB most weeks.
38. Ben Tate Hou - I view Tate in the same way as Hunter.
39. Pierre Thomas NO - I like Thomas more than Mark Ingram, but neither is much more than a desperation flex, unless its s very good match up up.
40. Brandon Bolden NE - Bolden is an interesting RB.  He is faster than Ridley, and sources close to the team say that he will be the teams goal line back.  Its hard to trust New England's back field, but I like Bolden's upside.
     

 

Wide Receivers

1. A.J. Green Cin - Green is in the Calvin Johnson debate, for best WR, both in real life and fantasy.
2. Roddy White Atl - White is one of the most consistent WRs in fantasy. 
3. Calvin Johnson Det - Despite a rough start for the Lions' offense, Johnson has retained his value.  It hasn't been #1 WR great so far, but not many have Johnson's upside.
4. Dwayne Bowe KC - The switch to Brady Quinn is slightly concerning, but I wouldn't see it affecting Bowe's value that much.  Bowe is one of the best red zone targets in the NFL, he is tied for first in targets, and his team will always be playing catch up with their defense struggling.
5. Julio Jones Atl - The two bad games don't concern me that much.  We all know how talented Jones is.  Things should get better.
6. Miles Austin Dal - Austin has been very consistent, through 4 games.  Romo is looking for him in the red zone, and Austin's hamstring problem should improve as the season continues.
7. Percy Harvin Min - Harvin is getting used a ton in the passing game, and is still seeing some snaps in the backfield.  The TDs/big plays are coming.
8. Mike Wallace Pit - Wallace doesn't appear to have suffered from missing training camp.  He is one of the leagues best down field threats, and even has some red zone targets this year.
9. Victor Cruz NYG - Cruz is tied for the league lead in targets and is a consistent fantasy producer.  The huge plays might not be there, but the targets are even better.
10. Brandon Marshall Chi - The Culter to Marshall chemistry should improve as the year goes on.
11. Jordy Nelson GB - I still believe in Nelson as a WR1 for the rest of the year.  The packers offense should find some consistency soon. 
12. Reggie Wayne Ind - Wayne has quickly gotten in sync with his rookie QB.  He is getting a ton of targets, and targets are gold for WRs with Wayne's skills.  He may be a little older now, but he can still get it done.
13. Brandon Lloyd NE - Surprisingly, Lloyd lead the Patriots in targets.  The big plays will come as Brady and Lloyd figure each other out.
14. Eric Decker Den - I feel that Decker will have more consistency than Thomas going forward, while still maintaining big play potential.  He is a good route runner, and is better suited for Manning's play style.
15. Demaryius Thomas Den - Thomas's work with Calvin Johnson in the off-season appears to be paying off.  His route running looks improved, and he still has elite athleticism. A lot of his production has come off of WR screens.  Will opposing defenses soon key on this?
16. Antonio Brown Pit - Brown is a possession receiver in a punt returners body.  He can make big plays in open space, and is still Roethlisberger's trusted 3rd down WR. 
17. Torrey Smith Bal - Smith has looked like a stud so far.  He is getting open deep consistently, and Flacco throws deep more than any other QB.  If he shows consistency, he will be higher on the next list.
18. Stevie Johnson Buf - Johnson is a good, not great, WR who puts up consistent numbers when healthy.  He thrives on a ton of targets, but can be shut down by double teams.
19. Hakeem Nicks NYG -  Nicks would be #4 if he wasn't injured.  His foot was a big concern coming into the year, and now its his knee that is giving him troubles.  I just have a bad feeling about his season being derailed by injury. 
20. Andre Johnson Hou - Johnson has just missed on a few big plays this year.  He plays in a run first offense, and doesn't see as many targets as the other elite WRs.  He has to capitalize on the big play action passes to have good weeks.
21. Desean Jackson Phi - Jackson looks like he is returning to his 09/10 form.  He has been consistently getting open and is seeing a good amount of targets each week.  His value has been this good and he hasn't even made many of his signature big plays this year.
22. Wes Welker NE - Even when Hernandez returns I like Welker's value.  He is too talented to not be used.  Brady and Welker are close friends, I don't think Brady would let his friend get thrown under the bus in what may be his last season as a Patriot.
23. Larry Fitzgerald Ari - I was wrong on Fitzgerald.  Kolb has looked a lot beter at QB than I thought he would.  There are still reasons to not like Fitzgerald, but he is producing despite them.  Arizona is finding very creative ways to get him the ball, like using WR picks.
24. Vincent Jackson TB - Jackson is Freeman's favorite new weapon, with 38 targets.  Jackson has big potential, but this offense is no juggernaut.  His increase in targets this year should make him a safe start against bad defenses.
25. Brian Hartline Mia - We've seen Hartline's biggest career game, but I still think there are lots of reasons to like him.  He has good speed, is decent in all other aspects, and Tannehill looks like a competent passer.  It's just him and Davone Bess, on an offense that isn't afraid to let Tannehill pass like crazy. 
26. Marques Colston NO - It was great to see Colston finally have a big game last week.  This may be the point where he becomes consistent week to week.  We will see.
27. Steve Smith Car - Smith has talent, but defensive coordinators see him as the only receiving threat.  I would only feel safe starting Smith in good match ups.
28. Dez Bryant Dal - Bryant has not looked good this season.  He is making lots of mental errors that have been detrimental to the Cowboy's offense.  Dez has all of the talent to be a big time WR, but can he get his mind right?  Maybe, Dez needs to go back to doing hood rat stuff with his friends at the mall.
29. Greg Jennings GB - Jennings has shut it down until his groin is healed.  This should only be a two to three week ordeal.  If you can get Jennings on the cheap, I would go for it.
30. Lance Moore NO - Moore has been very productive this year, while getting 37 targets.  He is a high end WR3, that I would feel comfortable starting in the flex or at WR2 most weeks.
31. Jeremy Maclin Phi - Injury has been a concern for Maclin, so far this year.  We have seen him produce when healthy.
32. Pierre Garcon Wsh - We still don't have a good idea about what exactly was wrong with Garcon's foot.  If he was 100%, or I was sure that this injury wouldn't linger, I would have him as a WR2. 
33. Denarius Moore Oak - Moore is a great athlete with elite speed.  Moore should see plenty of targets and be involved in the offense, but I'm not sure how prolific this offense will be.  Moore is a good talent, but hasn't proven it over a full season and may be inconsistent.
34. Malcom Floyd SD - Floyd is River's most trusted target, besides Antonio Gates.  He has good size and play making ability, but Floyd hasn't been able to stay healthy for a full season in the past.
35. Nate Washington Ten - Washington has good not great speed, and is a reliable veteran in the passing game. 
36. Donnie Avery Ind - There was a reason that Avery was the first WR taken by St. Louis the year he came out.  He can get behind defenders with ease.  Health has always been a big concern with Avery, but if he can stay on the field he can develop into a good WR.
37. Domenik Hixon NYG - Hixon is a fast receiver who has been with the Giants for a long time. With Nicks out he is the #2 WR. He will even have some value when Nicks comes back.
38. James Jones GB - Jones is a low end WR2 when Jennings is out, and a desperation flex play when Jennings is back. 
39. Mike Williams TB - Williams has been doing good so far, catching a few TDs and having a nice game last week.  I just don't think this offense can sustain consistent production for two WRs.
40. Anquan Boldin Bal - Boldin is a bye week fill in player.  He will usually get some targets and has the chance to gt some decent yardage.
41. Davone Bess Mia - Bess is usually good for at least 6 points, with some upside.
42. Andrew Hawkins Cin - I've written a lot about Hawkins.  I like him, but I'm not sure how much the Bengals will use him.
43. Kendall Wright Ten - Wright is a talented rookie.  Being a rookie, he will be inconsistent. 
44. Andre Roberts Ari -  Roberts is the fast WR opposite Larry Fitzgerald.  He is off to a good start, and I think he can exploit bad defenses.
45. T.Y. Hilton Ind - Hilton has made some big plays in the pre-season and in week 3.  He has upside, but he is a rookie.

 

Tight Ends

1. Jimmy Graham NO - He is the focal point of the Saint's passing attack.
2. Rob Gronkowski NE - The Patriots look like they are getting Gronk back into the game plan.
3. Tony Gonzalez Atl - Gonzalez has been a big surprise.  Matt Ryan is looking to him in the red zone.
4. Vernon Davis SF - Davis can win you weeks, or be non existent from time to time.  The upside is worth the start every week.
5. Jason Witten Dal - Witten cut back on the drops last week, and had a huge game.  Witten should be reliable for 60-90 yards.
6. Antonio Gates SD - Gates looked better last week, until he was double teamed in the second half. I still say he rounds into form.
7. Owen Daniels Hou - Owen Daniels is now healthy and back to being a reliable receiving option for Matt Schaub. He will always get you yardage.
8. Aaron Hernandez NE - Hernandez might be back this week.  He is a WR in a TE body, and is the second best deep threat behind Lloyd. 
9. Martellus Bennett NYG - Bennett will end the year with more drops than a Skrillex concert.  The Giants don't care.  They will keep throwing him the ball, and Bennett is a great red zone option.
10. Dennis Pitta Bal - Pitta hurt a lot of people last week, but he has a ton of targets on the season.
11. Brandon Pettigrew Det - Pettigrew also struggles with drops.  He is heavily targeted and runs good routes for a TE.
12. Jermichael Finley GB - Finley has yet to turn into the TE we thought we would be.  He has the talent, but hasn't gotten the production consistently yet.
13. Heath Miller Pit - Ben Roethlisberger has said that he wants to get Miller to the pro bowl this year.  If he keeps catching TDs at this clip, he can.  Miller has been inconsistent in the past, maybe that changes this year.
14. Fred Davis Wsh - Davis has top 5 talent, but he doesn't appear to be a big part of the offense.
15. Greg Olsen Car - Olsen is the second best receiving option on the Panthers.  That isn't saying a whole lot.  The Panthers aren't finding the same success throwing this year, compared to 2011.
16. Scott Chandler Buf - TD dependant TE. But he gets a lot.
17. Jared Cook Ten - Cook is a big time talent at TE.  IF he was on a better offense he would be a monster.
18. Kyle Rudolph Min - Rudolph has the trust of Ponder and is the team's best red zone threat.
19. Brent Celek Phi - Celek is more involved in the passing game than in previous years, with Michael Vick under center.
20. Jermaine Gresham Cin - Gresham has talent, but that talent has never materialized into fantasy relevance.