Orton is completing nearly 60 percent of his passes and throwing for just under 200 yards per game. Okay, those aren’t the sexiest numbers in the world, but he is making sound decisions for the most part and showing that he is capable of keeping his team in the game.

The Bears are coming off of a 24-20 win over the Eagles and that momentum could carry them into having a decent year. If they do, look for teams to be interested in bringing him in to compete for the starting job.

TJ Houshmandzadeh, Wide Receiver – Cincinnati Bengals

Class I

Houshmanzadeh has shown that he is a Pro Bowl caliber receiver. On a team with the flamboyant and boisterous Chad Johnson, Houshmandzadeh has established himself as a No. 1 wide-receiving option. He has improved each season, including a career high 112 catches and 12 touchdowns last year.

STOCK NEUTRAL

Teams already know what Houshmanzadeh is capable of doing, so his statistics should not hurt him in any way this season, given the lack of offense in Cincinnati. With Carson Palmer injured, Houshmanzadeh is without a strong quarterback and, consequently, won’t see the same looks as he did before.

However, teams know what they’re going to get from Houshmanzadeh, and he will be the most coveted wide receiver on the market.

Other Notables

Kurt Warner (Class III), Quarterback – Arizona Cardinals: Since taking over the job from Matt Leinart, Warner has shown that he can still successfully lead a team, despite his age. If the Cardinals end up with a winning record, look for him to be back in Arizona. 

Ricky Williams (Class V), Running back – Miami Dolphins: Williams has shown maturity over the last year-and-a-half by keeping a low profile and doing whatever the Dolphins have asked of him. Though his best days are behind him, he is still a more than capable back who can help any number of teams in the league.

Maurice Morris (Class III), Running back – Seattle Seahawks: Morris was originally named the starter in Seattle, but due to injury lost his job to Julius Jones. Morris will likely split carries the rest of the season but will draw attention in the offseason for teams looking to bring in competition for the starting position or to solidify their backup spots. 

Plus: Lee Evans, Amani Toomer, Darren Sproles, Jeff Garcia, Marc Columbo, Mark Tauscher, Tra Thomas.

DEFENSE

Julius Peppers, Defensive End – Carolina Panthers

Class I and Class IV 

Why two classifications? While Peppers had excellent seasons from 2004-2006, he has recently had problems with consistency. Last year, he only had 2.5 sacks and failed to step up as a leader. Peppers has a ton of talent and had double-digits in sacks four out of his first five seasons. Teams will be looking to add his services this offseason.

STOCK UP

Through four games, Peppers has almost matched his sack total from last year. His play has been more aggressive and has helped lead the Panthers to a 3-1 record. If Peppers gets anywhere near his output from 2004-2006, he will bring in a huge contract from somewhere, and it might not be Carolina.

Albert Haynseworth, Defensive Tackle – Tennessee

Class I

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