Bleacher Report - Articles by Lee Johnson

Updated Fantasy Football Rankings: Last Call!

Lee Johnson — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 08:45:22 -0400

Many Fantasy Football Drafts will fall in the next week. With that Football Jabber is posting its final Fantasy Football Redraft Rankings for the season. Included with the rankings are the current Average Draft Position (ADP) so you can see where the players have fallen in Mock Drafts. In this episode we will a have look at some of the Quarterbacks, Running Backs, and Wide Receivers you should keep an eye on.

Drew Brees No. 1 vs. Tom Brady No. 2

I want to throw out the disclaimer here that my stance on this battle is in no way effected by my being a Saints fan. Look at any of my Redraft rosters and you will rarely find a Saints on them. The heart stays clear of my fantasy football Warroom. Not that I don’t believe in their fantasy production, I just don’t think I value them as much as many others do in fantasy football.

Anyway…My gut tells me that Drew Brees is still going to be the top QB this season and if there is a Saint on my roster it will be him. Why? Tom Brady’s return does not make Brees a worse QB or his fantasy situation any worse. There are still questions lingering a bit with Brady and realistically it isn’t likely he will be up there where he was in 2007 on the fantasy scoreboard. It could still be that I have a bad taste in my mouth from drafting Brady in two leagues last year. Amazingly I was still able to win one and was runner up in the other (Have to throw that out there whenever I can).

Peyton Manning makes the Top Three!

YEAH! Why the excitement? Last season I was pounded a little bit by a couple readers for ranking Manning out of the Top three. One of them promised to come back and heckle me at the end of the season when Manning finished No. 1…this reader was never to be heard from again. Although Aaron Rodgers is right on his tail, Manning gets the nod at No. 3 for consistency and proving he is not a product of Tom Moore.

Jay Cutler moves into the Top 10

I’m not a big Cutler fan but it is starting to look like I have to get past that and forget the fact he is in Chicago.

Mark Sanchez and Shaun Hill officially get jobs

Thought I would throw this out there. It really didn’t move them much from where we already had them ranked. It certainly does feel better drafting them as a possible backup if you know they will be on the field.

David Garrard should be your backup QB

I may be kicking myself saying this before I have two drafts this weekend…David Garrard should be your backup QB. His ADP of 12.01 makes him a bargain a bargain. You should be able to fill a couple other backup spots and still find him on the board. Considering the bottom of the Top 12 rankings he could easily be a starter or play in a QBBC for some of those teams that grabbed the 11th or 12th QB.

Maurice Jones-DrewNo. 2 vs. Michael Turner No. 3

I’m starting to think that the best place to fall this season is the No. 3 spot. You know you get on of these two guys or that Peterson fellow. Things get a little iffy after that. You also get to be the first one of the owners of these three guys to pick again.

Anyway…You can’t go wrong with either of them I don’t believe, both are going to be beasts. Jones Drew gets the edge for his play in the passing game.

Poor Pierre Thomas

It appears that Sean Payton is going to keep us guessing as much as he does opposing defenses on Sunday. With Mike Bell’s Preseason play he is in there at the No. 3 spot and it looks as if he is going to be worked in as a three headed monster in the backfield for the Saints. This drops the value of Thomas a bit. He is the best RB option for the team but he is likely going to be overvalued by those wanting to get in on the Saints offensive action. If you can get a good deal on him, by all means go for it but realize you might not get consistent production as the ball is spread around in New Orleans.

...same thing in Tampa

I have been high on Earnest Graham this season as a sleeper. All eyes are on Derrick Ward and Graham earned an ADP of 10.09 because of it. Then Caddy came back. Williams is being worked in now with the other two. Who knows how long Williams will stay healthy but it does drop the value of Ward and Graham a bit.

Brandon Marshall falling fast…

Let’s just get it out there. You may just be better off going in another direction if you are considering drafting Brandon Marshall. Stay away from the drama. Look at your rankings and see where you have Marshall ranking and think if you could live with that guy or two sitting right behind him. At least they may still be getting you points in November…who knows what planet Marshall will be on then.

Love the Ocho Cinco

Tell you what…I’m going to be a happy guy if I can nab Chad Johnson (yeah, I went there) as my No. 2 WR this season. I’m thinking a come back season for this guy. One of those gut things I guess. With an Average Draft Position (ADP) of 4.01 I wouldn’t grab him in the third before that but if he falls back and you already have a RB,WR, base going…and don’t want to go QB yet…grab him.

Is Roy Williams the WR bust of the year?

Just as I have a gut feeling on Ochocinco, I’m a bit queezy when it comes to Roy Williams. I want this guy to succeed, don’t get me wrong. I just don’t know that I could take him as high as people are (fourth round). It is definitely a risk/reward pick. He certainly is in position to breakout…will he though?

Check out the rest of the rankings and come back and let us know who you drafted!

Re-Draft Rankings
QB|RB|WR|TE

Mocking the Fantasy Draft Positions: The First Pick

Lee Johnson — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 08:16:53 -0400

Something that I started earlier on in the Fantasy Football Preseason was a series of posts doing mock drafts from each draft slot. This came to a sudden halt when I was preparing for an experts draft in which I had the number three pick and did not want to tip my hand at all. Over the next week we will hash this thing and have a look at each draft slot. What went wrong, right, and could have been done differently. This will also give you an idea where some players may fall in your upcoming fantasy football draft.

In each post we will have a look at my pick and some other observations by round. At the end of the whole thing we will go back and look at the mocks as a group and figure out which position we feel we had the best draft in. So we thought we would try something wacky here and do the first mock draft from the first draft slot. Didn’t see that coming, did you?

FantasyFootballCalculator.com Screenshot

Pick 1.01 Adrian Peterson RB MIN

Adrian Peterson is still the top guy. The easiest pick in the first round. Of course there is some urge to go with a Maurice Jones-Drew here…Peterson is a pretty safe pick though. It’s the later rounds that are going to build this team.

First Round Observations: Four WR in the first round with Fitz going as early as pick No. 4. If the Rams get it together the No. 9 pick could have grabbed a steal in Steven Jackson.

Pick 2.12 Steve Smith WR CAR

At this point there have been seven WRs that have already come off the bard and the drop off is coming. Smith should be a solid No. 1 WR for me.

Second Round Observations: The first two QBs came off the board (Tom Brady 2.2, Drew Brees 2.5).

Pick 3.01 Anquan Boldin WR, AZ

Here is where we have to make a decision. Go with another RB like a Clinton Portis or make a move for another WR before the are gone. I decided to go with the WR and hope I can get a decent No. 2 RB later. By the way…Portis went the next pick and I cringed a little.

Third Round Observations: I was kind of hoping that Aaron Rodgers may fall to me in the 4th round but he and Peyton Manning went off the board with the 4th and 6th pick in the third round. Five more WRs came off the board in the round after my Boldin pick.

Pick 4.12 Thomas Jones RB, NYJ

As mentioned I was kind of hoping for Aaron Rodgers to fall here. Kind of “settled” with a Thomas Jones pick. Not really excited about him this year as the Jets start to use Leon Washington more. Should make for a decent No. 2 though.

Fourth Round Observations: Six more WRs in the fourth round. Feeling better about getting my second one now.

Pick 5.01 Eddie Royal WR DEN

The way that WRs are coming off the board there is no way I can wait until the end of the 6th to take another one. Eddie Royal falls into my No. 3 WR slot.

Fifth Round Observations: Three QBs came off the board. Looks like I’m going to be landing someone that I would rather not of had as my No. 1 QB but I feel good about my other starting positions filled.

Pick 6.12 Jay Cutler QB, CHI

I have not done a mock or real draft this year where I thought, “I hope I get Jay Cutler…” There is potential for some big games…as well as some busted games. The story of Jay Cutler, right? Well, he is brought on as my QB right here.

Sixth Round Observations: Too bad Matt Schaub fell before my pick. They were the only two QBs taken in the round.

Pick 7.01 Santana Moss WR, WAS

Starting three WRs I want to be sure I have a decent back up. Moss can actually swap spots with Royal depending on matchups.

Seventh Round Observations: Kellen Winslow comes off the board. In most drafting circles that I have witnessed he has officially been passed by Greg Olsen.

Pick 8.12 Owen Daniels TE HOU

I wanted to grab another starter position here and felt much better going after TE than K or DT in the eighth round. I was hoping for Chris Cooley to fall but he went at 8.05.

Eighth Round Observations: Three rookies in a row came off the board with Percy Harvin, Michael Crabtree and Donald Brown. If I had to choose between the three it would be Brown.

Pick 9.01 Earnest Graham RB TAM

I missed the boat on RB3 a bit. Most that are left are backups or backup to the backup. Graham has kind of been lost in the Derrick Ward shadow. He can still have some impact. Not real worried about a Caddy Williams comeback until I see it.

Round Nine Observations: Three Defensive teams come off the board with Pittsburgh, NY Giants, and Baltimore.

Pick 10.12 Philadelphia Eagles DT PHI

Watching four DTs come off the bard I decided to pull the trigger. It is a starting position after all. I like Philly despite losing Jim Johnson. Should be the same scheme running.

Round Ten Observations: Wondering where Brett Favre is falling? Round Ten here.

Pick 11.01 David Garrard QB JAX

I’m putting a lot of trust in Garrard as my backup QB this season in a lot of places. Hopefully he shakes off 2008.

Round Eleven Observations: Three more DT and a couple QBs go off the board, making me feel better about my timing of the last two picks.

Pick 12.12 Zach Miller TE OAK

Not one of the big names yet but I love the idea of Miller as my second TE. He should be a great target for JaMarcus Russell again this year.

Round Twelve Observations: we see our first kicker come off the board in Gostkowski. I don’t care what people say about not drafting kickers. They are starters on your team and getting one of the top guys can mean the difference between you and a loss.

Pick 13.01 Fred Taylor RB NE

Who knows what will happen at RB in New England. I do know that Freddy isn’t ready to quit and in the 13th round can be a solid RB backup who may never even have to be used.

Round Thirteen Observations: Six running backs came off the board so it was a good thing I got RB4 when I did.

Pick 14.12 Mason Crosby K GB

I usually like to land Nate Kaeding but he went at 14.01. Crosby should do it for me and I’m happy to have him.

Round Fourteen Observations: Michael Vick. Yup, this is the round someone takes a wildcat player who they will figure they can’t start unless they put him at QB.

Pick 15.01 Steve Smith WR NYG

Putting myself at risk of starting the wrong Steve Smith in a given week I throw him a bone. Someone will emerge in New York this season. If it isn’t him this spot will be used to pick up someone up off the waiver wire.

Round Fifteen Observations: This is where the two rookie QBs came off the board. Wonder how Sanchez’s stock will rise now that he has been named starter.

So there is the pick from the No. 1 spot. Overall thoughts? I’m not real comfortable with my squad. QB really bothers me but I was happy sealing up the positions before Cutler. I would have been happier I think had I taken McNabb at 5.01 and then Santana Moss and a Donald Driver in the next two rounds. That is something I have mentioned earlier in the preseason. If you wait past the 6th round (which 6.12 basically was) you are likely to get stuck with a QB you don’t want.

Be sure to swing by and check out the rest of the draft slots.

The complete mock can be viewed HERE.

After having a look around at the different mock draft services, my favorite continues to be Fantasy Football Calculator. Run some mocks for yourself!

Nine Free Fantasy Football Quick Reads To Help Dominate Your League

Lee Johnson — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 07:53:16 -0400

So I’m going to test drive a new RSS reader.

I have used Google Reader for quite a while but I’m always trying new things.

I downloaded an extension called “Brief” for Firefox.

I have not used one built into my browser in a while because I don’t want it to slow things down. Oh well, if it does I have the trusty Google Reader on stand by.

Do you use the FREE powers of RSS in your Fantasy Football Front Office? If not you should be. Check out this Fantasy Football Tip out on how to Dominate with RSS Subscribing.

Do you play in any of the Survivor Type leagues where you can only start a player once? No draft, no roster to manage. Just set a lineup each week. HERE are a couple games to win free stuff, including a Wii.

The Fantasy Football Librarian has her average rankings from 11 big sites coming out soon.

Pancake Blocks are LOOKING DEEP for Sleepers at wide receiver. Chaz Schilens is mentioned. I just picked him up on the cheap in an Keeper Auction. Get him while you can because everyone is going to be onto this guy.

Matt at The Fantasy Football Geekblog is big on Percy Harvin when it comes to rookies.

RazzBall continue their Top 50 Rankings with commentary.

MAC Bros. have a comical look at Draft Day Attire. It won’t help you win your league, but it is funny.

Jamey Eisenberg at CBS Sports warns not to waste a pick on Mike Vick. I have to agree. I was just wondering yesterday watching NFL Live why someone would draft him. Unless you have McNabb and you want a backup for your starter (if he even makes No. 2 on the depth chart at quarterback), I certainly wouldn’t use a pick on someone that isn’t going to be in a starting lineup.

Chances are, if he gets in the game, he isn’t going to be at quarterback and he likely will be listed at QB in your fantasy league.

USA Today has a look at some risky picks, leading off with Steven Jackson. I have him in two dynasty leagues and hope he isn’t busting this year.

To Handcuff or Not To Handcuff: Answering the Fantasy Question About Backup RBs

Lee Johnson — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 08:00:36 -0400

By Football Jabber Contributer T.D. Hill

To Handcuff or Not to Handcuff. That’s the Question.

Ah, the art of handcuffing. Or shall I say: the forgotten art. It’s astounding how many mockers are neglecting the selections of handcuffs for their most prized possession: the RB1.

Now, it’s not a must that you handcuff everybody. You just need to handcuff the guys that have the talent to step in and provide at least 75 percent of the production your top line RB was giving you. That’s the rule I have in handcuffing.

And in the era of RBBC (Running Back By Committees), handcuffing can come quite expensive depending on the rounds your potential handcuff is currently being drafted. Some “handcuffs” actually have stand alone value which drives up their ADP.

Still, so far while mocking; it’s astounding how little mockers are paying attention to this still seemingly important draft strategy. Let’s take a look at the 12 RB1’s and what it will take to nab their handcuffs:

Adrian Peterson ADP 1.01 – HANDCUFF: Chester Taylor ADP 10.03

For two years now, Chester has proved to be a very necessary handcuff for AP owners. With a current ADP in the 10th round (or ninth at the turn), he’s very affordable. This is actually ideal ADP for Chester as he’d take the spot of your RB4 at this point in the draft.

I much rather have him if I owned Peterson other than similar backs at that spot of the draft like Leon Washington or Tim Hightower

Maurice Jones-Drew ADP 1.02 – HANDCUFF: none

Chester Taylor above proved a perfect example for when to handcuff. MJD’s backups prove the opposite. If MJD were to go down, it’s highly doubtful Jack Del Rio would turn over the reigns to rookie Rashard Jennings. Even if he did, Jennings wouldn’t prove nearly as valuable as I’m sure Greg Jones would most likely take over goal line duties.

Taking that into consideration, the 75 percent production rule does not apply. But go ahead and take Jennings on a flier at the end of your draft just in case.

Michael Turner ADP 1.03 – HANDCUFF: Jerious Norwood ADP 12.02

I don’t believe Norwood is a must handcuff for Turner in the least bit, but with an ADP in the 12th round, I’d take a flier on him over a fifth receiver if I had Turner.

Matt Forte ADP 1.04 – HANDCUFF: Kevin Jones ADP 14.02

While I don’t buy the hype that Kevin Jones will be cutting into Forte’s workload too much, the early positive camp reports on Jones have elevated his handcuff status immensely. If Forte were to breakdown, I now believe Kevin Jones could step in and provide that 75 percent production level.

And with a current ADP in the second to last round, you must grab him.

Steven Jackson ADP 1.06 – HANDCUFF: none

If you’re taking SJAX in the first round, you know very well the potential for injury so I’m assuming that you are leaning toward running backs in the middle to late rounds anyhow, so building depth there makes way more sense than even thinking about rostering Antonio Pittman.

LaDanian Tomlinson ADP 1.07 – HANDCUFF: Darren Sproles ADP 8.05

Sproles definitely follows the 75 percent rule and his eighth round ADP might look high, but at this point in the draft you’d ideally already have a QB, three WR’s and three RB’s so taking Sproles in the eighth over a backup QB, a fourth WR or a TE makes sense. If you waited this long for a TE, you might as well wait a little longer.

Chris Johnson ADP 1.09 – HANDCUFF: LenDale White ADP 6.07

Spending a sixth rounder for LenDale is not even a possibility if you take Chris Johnson as your RB1. White has stand alone value being the TD vulture that he is so you’re just going to have to live without him.

However, keep an eye on him as he doesn’t have many fans and could be overlooked in your draft. If he falls to the 8th, I’d take him without hesitation.

Steve Slaton ADP 1.10 – HANDCUFF: none

Undrafted rookie Arian Foster is getting a lot of camp hype and Chris Brown is nestled in at second on the depth chart and even Jeremiah Johnson could see some work, so handcuffing Slaton is just not a viable option

DeAngelo Williams ADP 1.12 – HANDCUFF: Jonathan Stewart ADP 6.01

Stewart has been going has high as the fifth round in mocks, which obviously doesn’t make him a handcuff candidate for DWill owners. Stewart still has high expectations so the chances of him slipping in your drafts are very unlikely.

Frank Gore ADP 2.01 – HANDCUFF: none

If Gore goes down, so do the 49ers.

Brian Westbrook ADP 2.05 – HANDCUFF: LeSean McCoy ADP 8.06

Perhaps it’s because he’s being selected in the second round, and in some cases as a RB2, but the amount of people passing on the opportunity to handcuff rookie LeSean McCoy to Westy in the eighth round is surprising.

Correll Buckhalter proved that he could step right into Westy’s shoes last season and even though McCoy is a rookie, the reports are extremely positive that he could do the same.

Brandon Jacobs ADP 2.05 – HANDCUFF: Ahmad Bradshaw ADP 9.07

Last season as Brandon Jacobs sidekick, Derrick Ward finished as a RB23 in standard leagues. Bradshaw as Jacobs new sidekick is currently being selected as the 47th RB. You do the math.

I realize handcuffing second round running backs may not be ideal but after taking a look at that Bradshaw’s ADP and what he could do if Jacobs were to go down, how could you not?

Average Draft Position Data from FantasyFootballCalculator.com

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A Look at 17 Free Fantasy Football Quick Reads To Help Plan Your Draft

Lee Johnson — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 11:30:36 -0400

There is not much more annoying for a fantasy football owner doing your research then clicking somewhere only to be told that the content is for “Premium Members” and you are not allowed access...unless, of course, they want to join.

Fantasy Football Quick Reads are a collection of FREE fantasy football links for you from around the net. Choose what applies to you and have a look before the boss comes back around the corner...

I was recently somewhat disappointed when Adrian Peterson fell to me at No. 3 in an Experts PPR league. I never thought that Peterson would have fell and was liking the idea of either Maurice Jones-Drew or Matt Forte leading my team in the format.

I will learn to live with it, though, and it was likely for the best. When playing in a PPR (points per reception) league you have to shake up your running back rankings a little bit. FFJungle.com gives their Top 40 Rankings with PPR HERE.

Kevin at FantasyFootballCalculator.com poses this question...late-round WRs, do you take a risk or play it safe? Myself I’m more worried about putting points up with my No. 3 WR than I’m “discovering” the next best player. If I’m high on a sleeper I will take him, not for the discovery bragging rights but because he fits in my plans to win.

Offseason moves can help and hinder the fantasy football outlook of not only the player changing places but the team he joins or leaves behind. KansasCityStar.com has a look at some of the players making a move this year and what it does to their fantasy stock.

Scott Pianowski at Yahoo! Sports makes a good point regarding NFL strength of schedule. Fantasy owners should be more worried about putting together a strong roster than guessing about how the NFL schedule will be playing out months from now.

Sports Data Hub isn’t buying Philip Rivers after crunching the numbers.

Pancake Blocks thinks Matt Schaub will be the No. 1 QB this year.

There are some very important position battles going on in camp at the running back position. Have a look at what Mike Harmon at ESPN has to say on these.

Pro Football Weekly has a nice writeup on which No. 3 WRs are ready to take off. The way the WR position is flying off draft boards this is some important information here!

The Hazean beats me to the punch on the Most Overrated RBs for 2009. Another article in the “draft” bin I can scrap. Procrastination gets you nowhere, Lee!

I love looking at average draft position (ADP) and seeing where these players are going. There are some things that you have to take into consideration, though, and FantasyFootball.com has a look.

FFGeekBlog has updated their Running Back Cheat Sheet. Pierre Thomas is moving on up!

Terrell Owens fantasy football production this season is being questioned. Fantasy Pros 911 have a look at whether or not you should throw a draft pick at him.

KFFL tells about a message being sent to Dwayne Bowe. A message that has him demoted to practicing with the second and third stringers.

Adam Levitan at RotoWorld.com has a look at the tailbacks on bad football teams. Interesting nugget they throw out there...

“Over the last 10 seasons, just 19 running backs have managed to be a top-10 fantasy back while their team had a losing record.”

Should you use a fantasy football draft pick on these injured wide receivers like Steve Smith and Antonio Bryant? Gene Wang at The Washington Post asks an Orthopedic Surgeon for fantasy purposes.

The New York Giants wide receiver position could lead to an uprising fantasy star. But which one? 4for4.com has a look at the NY Steve Smith.

For more free fantasy football info, check out Football Jabber. Subscribe via RSS or get Quick Reads delivered to your e-mail.

17 Free Fantasy Football Quick Reads

Lee Johnson — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 11:22:01 -0400

There is not much more annoying for a fantasy football owner doing their research than clicking somewhere only to be told that the content is for “Premium Members” and they are not allowed access…unless of course they want to join.

Fantasy Football Quick Reads are a collection of FREE fantasy football links for you from around the net. Choose what applies to you and have a look before the boss comes back around the corner…

When playing in a PPR (Points per reception) league you have to shake up your Running Back rankings a little bit. FFJungle.com gives their Top 40 Rankings with PPR HERE.

Kevin at FantasyFootballCalculator.com poses this question…Late Round WRs, do you take a risk or play it safe? Myself, I’m more worried about putting points up with my No. 3 WR than I’m “discovering” the next best player. If I’m high on a sleeper I will take him, not for the discovery bragging rights, but because he fits in my plans to win.

Scott Pianowski at Yahoo Sports makes a good point regarding NFL Strength Schedule. Fantasy owners should be more worried about putting together a strong roster than guessing about how the NFL schedule will be playing out months from now.

Sports Data Hub isn’t buying Philip Rivers after crunching the numbers.

Pancake Blocks thinks Matt Schaub will be the No. 1 QB this year.

There are some very important position battles going on in camp at the Running Back position. Have a look at what Mike Harmon at ESPN has to say on these.

Pro Football Weekly has a nice writeup on which No. 3 WRs are ready to take off. The way the WR position is flying off draft boards this is some important information here!

The Hazean beats me to the punch on the Most Overrated RBs for 2009. Another article in the “draft” bin I can scrap. Procrastination gets you nowhere Lee!

I love looking at Average Draft position (ADP) and seeing where these players are going. There are some things that you have to take into consideration though, FantasyFootball.com has a look.

FFGeekBlog has updated their Running Back Cheat Sheet. Pierre Thomas is moving on up!

Terrell Owens fantasy football production this season is being questioned. Fantasy Pros 911 have a look at whether or not you should throw a draft pick at him.

KFFL tells about a message being sent to Dwayne Bowe. A message that has him demoted to practicing with the 2nd and 3rd stringers.

Adam Levitan at RotoWorld.com has a look at the tailbacks on bad football teams. Interesting nugget they throw out there…

“Over the last 10 seasons, just 19 running backs have managed to be a top-10 fantasy back while their team had a losing record.”

Should you use a Fantasy Football draft pick on injured Wide Receivers like Steve Smith and Antonio Bryant? Gene Wang at The Washington Post asks an Orthopedic Surgeon for fantasy purposes.

The New York Giants Wide Receiver position could lead to an uprising fantasy star. But which one? 4for4.com has a look at the NY Steve Smith.

For more free fantasy football info, check out Football Jabber. Subscribe via RSS or get Quick Reads delivered to your Email.

Fantasy Football Mock Drafts—Why And Where To Do Them

Lee Johnson — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 08:49:07 -0400

The Fantasy Football Mock Draft. There was once a time when the only place you would really see them was in print, on paper, in a annual fantasy football magazine. It was nice to see where the staff that these magazines appointed experts would take players in a draft. A fly on a wall in a sense. But would your buddies draft that way? You could do mocks with your pals in your favorite message board but if you were playing with these guys you wouldn’t want to tip your hand, would you? With the evolution of the Internet and the eventual realization by the mainstream media that Fantasy Football was not a fad, mock draft services were a part of a natural progression in the interactive web.

They first popped up provided by those sites that loved fantasy football and envisioned a way to take it to the next level on the net. Then the mainstream sports sites jumped on board the fantasy bandwagon and started providing them as well. Now it seems you can not swing a computer mouse without hitting a mock draft service. Are you using them? If you are, good. If not, why are you not taking advantage of this? Here are some reasons you should, followed by where…

To fix your fantasy football craving. You had to hate when people would join the free leagues and max out their teams as soon as they opened for business in the summer because they had the fever. I used to be guilty. I managed my teams though…many don’t. Doing mock drafts can provide a temporary fix.
Testing draft strategies. It used to be the RB, RB. Then there were the Triplets. These days things are going to Best Available. Then, on top of that, you have to consider that the draft position you are at could change things all together. Use them to test out the various strategies at various positions. Doing so last year was very enlightening for Football Jabber(Have a look HERE and then come back and continue, we will wait…).
Mock to your hearts content without giving anything up to your competition. Unless you tell your league mates where and when you are mocking, you can test out as much as you want without them knowing who you are targeting.
To see how others value players. I’m sure by now you have seen the term Average Draft Position (or ADP) used. Many of these are taken from mock drafts until real draft data is available. Of course, the results can be skewed a little depending on how serious those drafting are but so are leagues, right? Why take a chance on a sleeper you want too early if you know that their ADP is six rounds later? There is a good chance nobody will take them for a few rounds.

Those are some of the reasons to get your mock on—now for where to do it. I did some mocks at each of these recently and can give you a little insight into each. We welcome readers to share their experiences and favorites as well. If you are looking for mock auctions, some of these like ESPN and CBS make those available too. Most give you the ability to choose between a number of options as far as number of teams in the mock league.

Fantasy Football Calculator- This is my favorite. One of the reasons it is my favorite is that, although it has some other features, the reason for being for this site is Fantasy Football Mock Drafts and Average Draft Position analysis. The price is right too—free. There is a good chance any time you show up here to do a mock you are going to be able to jump in and go. Not with just the computer to mock against either, this place has the traffic as well and those that use it appear to be serious. You don’t have to register but you can if you want your mocks saved to your profile so you can compare them later. Simple interface and user friendly. You can enter the draft as soon as you sign up. Downer-You are limited to the scoring default.
Fantasy Football Xtreme- Again you have Mock Drafts brought to you by people that truly love the game of Fantasy Football. With everything that Fantasy Football Xtreme has to offer this seems kind of like it is hidden away and can be easily overlooked. Easy to use interface. Picks lightning fast for the computer picks, doesn’t mess around! They boast their ADP data, would like to see that included somewhere in the info when drafting. New Drafts starting every five minutes but not many to choose from if you are looking for a certain amount of teams. I have a feeling this application will be improved for 2010 Fantasy Football Mock Drafts.
MyFantasyLeague.com- If you have read Football Jabber for any period of time you likely are aware that we are big fans of MFL.com around here. For me jumping into a mock draft here was like being at home because I’m so used to the format of the draft room. Easy to use. One downer is that it picks from their ADP list for the computer so you can actually see a few picks out if you are after some computer picks who is going to be available to you. Not a real mainstream site so not a lot of mockers. They are offering a “Draft Only” league this year where you can draft like a mock draft and the system will play the best roster each week for the season. With this you can do it with buddies and kind of let it play out to see who had the better draft in the end. Football Jabber has one going with a 20 man roster to make up for injuries.
Mock Draft Central- Another site dedicated to Mock Drafts. This one has more bells and whistles though. That isn’t always a good thing. The draft room can be a bit overwhelming and hard to navigate. For those that are planning to spend a lot of time here it is a decent setup, like saving rankings. You can save rankings in your profile making it easier to use them in different mocks. More upside here is the ability to chose between different scoring systems and league types (IDP!). Many of the features are under the “Premium” section. The cost isn’t much but it is still cost. There are several factors you can search through when looking for a mock, including “Coach Karma.” This is a number that is supposed to give credit the good mockers and punish the slackers.
ESPN- When testing this one out I was pretty bummed that there were only a couple other people in the mock I was doing. About four minutes out from the start though it filled up pretty fast. It was kind of tough to figure out where to go in. Finally found the link and had to wait for the draft room to launch. Once inside it was like walking into a casino. You have pictures, player stats, projections. I soon realized it was the same as the regular draft room and took me a while to find a button to actually pick. This happened to me in a draft there last year—ended up with Tom Brady in the first round—still won the league though. Anyway, the owners didn’t seem serious since they didn’t stay long if showed up at all. Maybe those that didn’t show were still trying to find the button to get in. I was very happy with my draft until my computer locked up in the 8th round(vary rare occurrence so I have to think it was related). Got an email with the results—took a dive after the computer started drafting.
Yahoo- When I arrived at the Yahoo Mock Draft section it was pretty early in the morning, I did not expect to be turned away though. It said the next draft was in 1 hour and 16 minutes. I went back later in the evening to give it a run. Takes while to find the link. Another flash room. Gives warning of possible 2 minute load time. Who has that kind of time in this short attention span Internet age? One upside if you are in Yahoo leagues you can use rankings right from the leagues you have in there.
CBS Sports- I hate passwords. I had to login, so I had to figure out my details. By the time I got in there I thought I was too late. Actually, I almost was. The system let me take a draft position that was almost timed out when I got in! By the 7th round myself and one other owner were the only ones left, all others had left. Not worth my time to go back here.

There are more out there, feel free to drop some names if you have favorites. We would love to hear what you do and don’t like about any Fantasy Football Mock Draft service. For more free fantasy football info, check out Football Jabber.

UFL Hires TV Producers...Is Not Going Away

Lee Johnson — Wed, 13 May 2009 07:40:07 -0400

The usual response to a new American football league in recent years has led to a head tilt followed by an “Awwww isn’t that cute?” People then go about their business of worshiping the NFL 365 days a year. Something odd is happening with the United Football League…it has not went away.

There isn’t much reason to think that the league cannot move forward with it’s inaugural season. Putting the four team league together has to be about as tough as putting together a reality TV show (beyond that is another story). In fact, the producers are in place for the live games that will air on the Versus Network.

Casting for the actual players will be set once the NFL makes more cuts around July. “Taping” will be a little over a month long with the Finale scheduled for Thanksgiving weekend. Wonder if the coaches that have been voted out by that point will really rip into Denny Green from the jury box?

Other coaches cast for the first season are Jim Haslett, Jim Fassel, and Ted Cottrell.

Sorry…I got a little too far into the reality TV swing there. The teams will be based in New York, Orlando, Las Vegas, and San Francisco.

NFL Draft Jabber | Pick by Pick First- Round Jabber

Lee Johnson — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 08:44:09 -0400

I have to say, this more streamlined NFL Draft that the Commish put together is pretty sweet. It was, however, tough to wait until 3 p.m. to get started. Business as usual…trades, people falling, people going sooner than expected. . Here is some pick by pick first round NFL Draft Jabber…

1) Detroit Lions: Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia

To this team in 2009 Football Jabber Mock Drafts: Versions-14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1

For three months this shot was call, so much so that in the last week people tried to make any case they could think of for it not to happen. Word is he will watch Dante Culpepper from the sidelines next season, or most of the season.

2) St. Louis Rams: Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

To this team in 2009 Football Jabber Mock Drafts: Versions-14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6

I walked away to get some food and came back to see a smiling Eugene Monroe on the phone. I learned soon enough that they would do this often. It did not mean that the person shown was the picked player. Made me often wonder why these guys were not keeping their line open.

Anyway, Smith goes to the Rams despite all the Mark Sanchez talk. Good pick. Once Orlando Pace was shown the door they HAD to get one of the top tackles.

3) Kansas City Chiefs: Tyson Jackson, DE/DT, LSU

To this team in 2009 Football Jabber Mock Drafts: Zero…zilch

The first somewhat surprise of the draft. It made sense…but Aaron Curry was sitting there and sometimes people expect you to take the best player on the board…especially if he is a linebacker and linebacker is a HUGE part of the scheme you use. Still, Jackson makes sense and should help the LB crew the Chiefs have behind him.

4) Seattle Seahawks: Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest

To this team in 2009 Football Jabber Mock Drafts: Zero

Curry almost made it here in the last mock draft. Otherwise he had been expected to slide past No. 3 since sometime in late January, I believe.

Of course there is Sanchez talk here…also Eugene Monroe. Once Curry fell though it was all over. He addressed a major need for the team and was looked at as the safest pick in the draft.

5) New York Jets (from Browns): Mark Sanchez, QB, USC

To this team in 2009 Football Jabber Mock Drafts: Versions-11, 8, 7, 6

The first trade. It would seem like unlikely partners since the Jets gave Mangini the boot recently. The Jets just seem like a team that needs a QB with charisma. It was kinda funny to watch the two guys booing and throwing their arms about in the Jets jerseys. Didn’t look like they were upset so much as simply acting as Jets fans are supposed to at the draft.

6) Cincinnati Bengals: Andre Smith, OT, Alabama

To this team in 2009 Football Jabber Mock Drafts: Versions-13, 12, 1

This was a great pickup for the Bengals. There will be all the character jokes, but we are used to that, so much that they are losing some zing for me.

7) Oakland Raiders: Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland

To this team in 2009 Football Jabber Mock Drafts: Zip…nada.

The first pick to be bashed by the media experts. Todd McShay kinda wondered out loud why Al Davis has not learned that speed isn’t everything. He also pointed out that this is one of the main reasons why the Raiders are picking so high every season.

8 ) Jacksonville Jaguars: Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

To this team in 2009 Football Jabber Mock Drafts: Version-1

After acquiring Tra Thomas in the offseason, offensive tackle was kind of put on the back burner as a need. This pick still makes sense, though, as Thomas is not a spring chicken and Monroe can play as soon as you want. Kind of shocking to see them not take Michael Crabtree since the WR spot is still very shallow and Torry Holt is not a long-term answer.

9) Green Bay Packers: B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College

To this team in 2009 Football Jabber Mock Drafts: Versions-13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 6

By now have you noticed that the family surrounding the prospects wants to be on TV more than the prospects themselves? This was an awesome pickup for the Packers (especially since they got their pass rusher later). It will make the transition to the 3-4 that much smoother.

10) San Francisco 49ers: Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech

To this team in 2009 Football Jabber Mock Drafts: Zero

It would likely be tough to find a projection this season that found Crabtree fall past pick No. 10. Although all signs pointed to defense—well, not all, they need help at OT, QB, and WR—the Niners found themselves with a gift on their lap. We already heard the Jerry Rice comparisons before the video delay of the news reaching Crabtree.

For the rest of the first round and highlight videos for the prospects, visit the article's home HERE.

The 25 NFL Draft Links That'll Make You Smarter Than Everyone

Lee Johnson — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 07:59:49 -0400

The 25 NFL Draft links that'll make you smarter than everyone

That’s right, kids. Polish your NFL Draft chops with the enclosed links. You will indeed learn things that will impress and disgust whoever you throw your knowledge at this NFL Draft holiday weekend!

Barring any trades, our final mock draft is up. You can also check out the picks from our friends in the Mock Draft Database. For more NFL Draft news, prospect videos, and stuff, stop by NFL Draft Hub.

Myself and other bloggers/readers are throwing out picks in the Hazean’s Mock Draft.

Here is a bundle of Mock Drafts from the staff at Fantasy Football Toolbox.

The NFL Draft Dog’s house is a-rockin'...

The DC Pro Sports Report Mock Draft Database is enjoying their opening season for the NFL Draft. Join them for all the other sports that have drafts too! I hear there are some.

Hail Redskins Mock Draft Database listed 221 mocks this season. Redskin fans, go by and see some of the numbers crunched for who the Skins take.

Aaron Curry is role modeling it up already. His entourage for the NFL Draft experience is a 12 year-old leukemia survivor and his father. Pretty damn cool! Bryson Merriweather doesn’t get to just hang out with Curry...he's going everywhere with him, including the green room at the draft.

“When I told the NFL about what Aaron wanted to do, they said this was unprecedented,” agent Andy Ross of Octagon said Thursday. “There’s such limited space in the Green Room for people to have around you. Who takes that opportunity to do something for someone else?

“Most people look at players as ‘me, me, me’ guys. Aaron is a ‘you, you, you’ guy. He’s not just setting an example for players. He’s setting an example for all of us.”

I’m beginning to wonder if Michael Crabtree is cocky or just not very bright. Pro Football Talk discusses his NFL.com chat that included a “No Comment” when asked what he thought about playing for the Raiders.

Crabtree’s Five Reasons he has great hands...

Here are 15 things that Pete Prisco cannot figure out why...

USAToday.com has more on the feel-good story of the year in Michael Oher’s journey from being homeless to an NFL player.

What if there were not an NFL Draft and players could sign with whoever they want? Chaos!

NFL Draft day menu with Chef Jimmie. Whip up some wings!

In the last six years the Saints have made a trade in the first round three times under Mickey Loomis.

A team by team breakdown of the first round from the Star Tribune.

Michael Wilbon has a look at how the Redskins play their version of Fantasy Football in the NFL.

Speaking of the Skins...word is that Jason Campbell will seek a trade if Mark Sanchez is drafted. That might be taken care of for you, Jason.

Everyone has needs. USA Today covers those of the AFC and the NFC teams.

Walter Football has Jason Smith falling to the Bengals.

RealFootball365.com looks at second-day studs.

Finding the small school gems can make the draft for a team.

Here are 10 draft day predictions from the guys at CBS Sports.

NFL Mock Draft: Major Cha,Cha, Changes!

Lee Johnson — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 08:39:00 -0400

NFL Mock Draft: Major CHA,CHA, Changes

There has been major movement in the NFL Mock Draft in the last week. NFL Draft prospects are out visiting teams. There are trades, rumors, stocks rising, stocks falling, and smokescreens. Love this time of year! Here is a look at some of the influences in changes and the mock draft.

It is looking more and more like Mark Sanchez is not going to make it out of the Top 10. Either Sanchez goes to one of the QB-needing teams or, more than likely, there is a trade up to get him. Our mock draft does not have trades so we have him falling to a Top 10 team.

The Broncos first round picks are interesting as it can really help a team that has strong needs on defense. They certainly could be in the Sanchez race but for some reason McDaniels comes across as a guy that thinks his system can make the QB…even if that QB is Chris Simms or Kyle Orton. If they go defense with those two picks they can make it look like a Madden draft in the first round with two studs added on that side of the ball out of the gate.

Speaking of two picks…the Lions have a tough decision to make with the first pick. Chances are they are going to go Matt Stafford for several reasons, none of which are that he is the hands down best player to take there. Anyway, that second first round pick is interesting.

On one hand there is going to be an offensive tackle to take that can protect their first overall choice. This can take some heat off if they can get a guy that can keep Stafford upright enough…alive enough…to make people forget they could have had Jason Smith. On the other hand, they could land a defensive player who is a No. 1 or No. 2 prospect at his position, addressing both sides of the ball. Interesting in deed.

Will the Saints do what they are expected to do every season and take a CB or LB…or will they fill the one so-so need on that offense at RB? The problem the Saints have is that they have seen what it is like to be hurting at RB because of injury the last couple of seasons.

That could mean that all this Beanie Wells love being thrown out there lands him in New Orleans. It also could mean that the Saints would like more draft picks and want to move out of their spot with a number of valuable players still available there.

Here is a look at how the top five pans out in the new NFL Mock Draft. For the entire NFL Mock go to it’s home HERE.

1. Lions: Matt Stafford,QB, Georgia |Video | Video|

Yes, you have heard it before. The Lions are starting over…from ground zero. A new face for the franchise is in order and that is Matt Stafford. Of course there are needs all over the board but the Lions likely go QB here to start over.

It is starting to look like this is one of those years that the QB you HAVE to take at No. 1 might not be No. 1 worthy. Tired of saying the same thing over and over, many are starting to place Jason Smith in this spot. Certainly a need but there will not be a QB at No. 20.

We know that the Lions need to start in the trenches and all that, and Matt Stafford isn’t going to step in and make them Champions. They are not an OT away from the Super Bowl either, and they have a better chance landing one of those at No. 20.

Previous Picks: Matt Stafford, QB (11,10,9,8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1)

2. Rams: Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

The best player for this spot is certainly an Offensive Tackle. Not only do the Rams seriously need an OT, they let Orlando Pace go already. Now what else would you be drafting if you cut the player you seriously need to draft someone to replace soon anyway?

Jason Smith is shooting up draft boards after the Combine. If Crabtree was not falling you would have to wonder about him here too as Torry Holt is now gone. Aaron Curry would make any team better as well.

Previous Picks: Jason Smith, OT (11,10,9,8,7,6), Andre Smith, OT (5,4,3,2), Michael Oher, OT (1)

3. Chiefs: Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest |Video|Video|

In acquiring Matt Cassel, the Chiefs have freed themselves up to take what could be the best player in the 2009 NFL Draft here. They also shake up some other picks as teams have to adjust to their move as well. The Chiefs could use help on both of the lines…but how do you pass this guy up?

Previous Picks: Aaron Curry, OLB (11,10,9,8,7,6), Mark Sanchez, QB (5,4,3,2,1)

4. Seahawks: Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia |Video|Video|

The Seahawks were the long time landing spot for Michael Crabtree and still could be. Although I’m not as convinced as they may be that T.J. is the long term answer, we are going to go in another direction. B.J. Raji is a logical choice here but in obtaining Corey Redding they may feel that DT is good now too.

Next logical choice is to go with OT and Monroe is the best left on the board. What the Seahawks have done in their moves though, is gave themselves options to not have to rush a player, which would allow them to take either of those mentioned above. Rumors even have Mark Sanchez falling here. Now wouldn’t that shake up the board?

Previous Picks: Eugene Monroe (11,1110,9,8,7), Michael Crabtree, WR (6,5,4,3,2,1)

5. Browns: Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas |Video|Video|

Still in search of that outside pass rush, the Browns could go for Orakpo who we know is a stud and some project could be an OLB in a three-four. Malcolm Jenkins is a possibility here as well, but he needs to bring his stock back up. B.J. Raji could very well be the pick here, especially if there is one of those DE/OLB hybrids they think may fall to them later.

Previous Picks: Brian Orakpo,DE (11,10,9,8,7,6) Aaron Curry, OLB (5,4,3,2,1)

NFL Draft Jabber| Mock Drafts, Rumors, and BS

Lee Johnson — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 08:37:22 -0400

NFL Draft Jabber| Mock Drafts, Rumors, and News…and BS

Intro Music:

(Deep Voiced guy): NFL calls BS on the drug allegations. Denver Broncos and Chicago Bears make a behind the scenes trade you should know about and how it helps reshape the NFL Draft.

Why the Saints can very well ignore defense and draft Chris “Beanie” Wells.

Scout.com’s Chris Steuber won’t let the man crush on Mark Sanchez die. Tips for the New York Giants and their WR situation.

This and more on NFL Draft Jabber…

You may have heard about this trade that the Bears and Broncos made last week. This move makes an impact on the NFL Draft in many ways…Denver could be the team to take the 2nd QB, whoever that may be.

They have two first rounders, giving them the ability to move around. If they do take QB, a defensive player that they would have likely taken can fall into the lap of another team.

In our latest mock draft the Broncos are not taking Kyle Orton as “the guy” that will get them back on top.

There is a lot of talk about the Saints taking Chris “Beanie” Wells out of Ohio State with the No. 14 pick. “But they need defense…” the crowd yells.

Well, they always do need defense, right? We are many years removed from the Dome Patrol. The Saints have made a couple moves in recent years that would show they could pull the trigger on Wells.

They took Will Smith in 2004 when they already had Charles Grant as a high pick at DE. They took that Reggie Bush guy in 2006 when Deuce McAllister was already a fan favorite in New Orleans (in fact they took McAllister when they already had Ricky Williams in 2001).

The Saints will have to REALLY like Wells to take him since they will not be picking again for a while. Which leads me to think they would be the perfect trading partner for someone to move up if Mark Sanchez falls to No. 14.

Chris Steuber at Scout.com has stood pat on Mark Sanchez being the first overall pick going to the Lions in his Mock Draft. You don’t see a lot of Sanchez going first overall. In his latest update he has the Broncos moving up to the No.3 spot to take the next best available QB.

Meanwhile, Matt Stafford ranks No. 1 in 91% of our partner mocks in the NFL Mock Draft Database. Aaron Curry and Jason Smith push their way into the No. 1 spot in a couple of them.

Should the Giants go Wide Receiver in the first round? Why not?

The G-Men have put themselves in the position of not really having many needs. They gave Plaxico Burress the boot last week, opening the door for a playmaker. Sure, WR’s don’t make an immediate impact and they could address it in Free Agency (Torry Holt) or a trade (Anquan Boldin).

They still have the ability to take one of those WR’s that are a little raw late in the first and let him develop while bringing in the older guy for this season.

A certain website that reported (in one liner fashion with no source when I looked) that several top NFL Draft prospects had tested positive for drugs. They got themselves some attention as many involved in the allegations are calling it B.S., including the NFL.

It’s something in the Nets they call viral. I don’t know their motives but I can tell you that you can bet their hits spiked when those one liners were posted and then reported on.

NFL Draft Jabber: Mocks, Order Change, Trades?, OH MY!

Lee Johnson — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 20:25:03 -0400

NFL Draft Jabber | Mocks, Order Change, Trades?, OH MY!

We have a month until the NFL Draft, folks! NFL mock drafts, trade talks and prospect news…it’s all pumping up right now.

With the NFL owners meetings this week, we even have a rule change for 2010. Let’s have a look around the Interweb for NFL Draftness…

Starting in 2010, the NFL Draft Order will change. Rather than just going by records, draft order will also be impacted by how deep teams go into the playoffs—ANOTHER rule that they've passed to copy our fantasy football dynasty league!

You can get updated NFL Draft News everyday at The NFL Draft Hub.

One of my favorite mock drafts over at Walter Football took me a little off guard. His opening line for the No. 7 pick for the Raiders was “surprise,” and for good reason.

Landing in the spot is Michael Johnson of Georgia Tech. Johnson has not found himself in many first round mock drafts since before the combine, let alone in the top 10.

Quite the jump. The reasoning? Read on…

"Look, it’s no secret that Al Davis loves 40 [-yard dash] times. Johnson ran an unofficial 4.49 [seconds] at his Pro Day. A giddy Davis probably had him at 3.39. Undead Al is obsessed with athleticism, and that’s one of the reasons I’ve changed this selection, despite Johnson’s work ethic.

"The other reason? Al Davis’ draft history. I reviewed all the selections he has made in the past 30 years. In that span, Davis has taken a defensive tackle in the first round only twice - Darrell Russell in 1997, and he ran a 4.8 at 320 pounds. Meanwhile, he has chosen defensive ends four times in the opening round, the most recent being Tyler Brayton, who had the third-fastest 40 time among the players at his position in 2003. Terrell Suggs and Jerome McDougle were quicker, but were both off the board by the time Oakland picked at No. 31."

The Huddle Report throws a nice feature in it’s mock draft: You can watch them adjust the draft board with each pick.

Sure, anyone can do that. They just don’t, and Huddle Report does, which makes it cool.

The NFL Draft Dog has some unique picks in his latest mock draft that you don’t see many places.

I like the Michael Oher pick to Chicago to be honest. Most, including myself, have the Bears taking a WR, but OT is a big need as well and it would fall more in line with the way the Bears draft. David Terrell was the last first round WR the Bears took.

It will be interesting to see how that pans out. I could understand if Oher fell that far, but that remains to be seen.

NFL Draft Spot actually has a pick I’m surprised we don’t see more often: Rey Maualuga to the Jaguars. With Mike Peterson gone, it would appear there is a major job opening there.

The "Jason Smith could be taken No. 1 instead of Stafford" debate has picked up a little steam. Football’s Future makes a good point in its latest mock:

"If the Lions had any thoughts of selecting a tackle here, they would have made a big push for Matt Cassel from New England, involving pick 20 or 33. Stafford appears to be the guy, and he has some nice young weapons at his disposal with RB Kevin Smith and WR Calvin Johnson. Keep an eye on a move for Jay Cutler, which could bump Jason Smith up to this spot."

Rumor has it that the Lions might be interested in trading the No. 1 pick.

Well…YEAH THEY WOULD! How stupid would they be not to open that window if someone wants to over pay for it? They have to try.

ESPN.com has a nice rundown of links to NFL.com video profiles for the prospects. For more prospect videos, go to The Hub.

If you get your Twitter on, add us. twitter.com/footballjabber

If you have read this far, you must be a big enough NFL fan to be soaking it all in. Who do you like in the draft for your team?

Do you like the pick your team has or would you like to see them trade? Slap it down in the comments.

Big Moves in Free Agency Affect the Latest NFL Mock Draft Update

Lee Johnson — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 12:50:51 -0400

The Kansas City Chiefs and Seattle Seahawks may have already made more of an impact on the 2009 NFL Draft than they did on the 2008 NFL Season.

The acquisitions of Matt Cassel and TJ Houshmandzadeh may shake up the rest of the draft boards by clearing up some glaring needs for teams holding two of the top five draft spots, causing some players to fall.

Let’s have a look at some of the changes in Football Jabber’s Mock Draft 6.0 brought on by free agency…

3. Kansas City Chiefs: Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest

In the previous mock, we had the Chiefs taking a chance on Mark Sanchez at the No. 3 spot, filling that franchise QB position. With the Chiefs making the move to trade for Matt Cassel, they are free to select the player who could just be the best player in the 2009 NFL Draft, Aaron Curry.

Curry is more suited for a 4-3 than a 3-4 defense but will be a monster in either. Maybe the Chiefs will figure out soon that the rest of their defense is more suited for a 4-3 as well and use that in the future.

4. Seattle Seahawks: Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech

Getting TJ Houshmandzadeh does not settle the need for the Seattle Seahawks at WR. It will however be a quick fix. Given Housh’s age, the Seahawks could still take Crabtree, giving them the future at the position. Considering it usually takes a WR a year or two to get the feel for the NFL, the timing could be perfect for having both WR’s.

Considering the fact that the Seahawks could go in a different direction here, maybe B.J. Raji at DT, upcoming mocks could drastically change based on the falling of Crabtree.

10. San Francisco 49ers: Andre Smith, OT, Alabama

So where will Mark Sanchez fall to? The Niners were the only other team that seemed to be in play for Kurt Warner. This is a fit, right? Well…maybe not. The Niners were making a play for a QB that could jump in and make an impact now while they addressed other needs in the NFL Draft…like the offensive line.

Andre Smith’s case of nutjobness during the NFL Combine causes him to fall out of the No. 2 spot with the Rams down to No. 10 with the Niners. If this guy happens to get his head on straight, this could be a steal at this spot! If not, he and Alex Smith can skip off into the sunset together.

21. Minnesota Vikings: Percy Harvin, WR, Florida

Hear me out here. Before, we did not predict a WR to go to the Vikings, as our focus had been more on OT, CB, and even QB up until now. But the Vikings have snagged Sage Rosenfels from the Texans in an attempt to shape up that QB spot.

Something interesting is the move they made for Housh before losing out to the Seahawks. Would the Seahawks be willing to spend a first round pick on another offensive playmaker? Could you imagine a healthy Harvin on the same offense as Adrian Peterson?

There is a taste of some of the many changes that free agency has thrown at our NFL Mock Draft. To check out the whole mock and prospect videos, CLICK HERE.

NFL Mock Drafts and Combine News

Lee Johnson — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 10:07:09 -0500

NFL Draft Jabber

The NFL Mock Drafts are hot and the NFL Combine is coming up fast. Where do the mockers have your team leaning? Who should you be watching at the Combine? What was that girl’s name on Seinfeld that sounded like a female body part? Let’s have a look around the Net at some NFL Draft Jabber…

Junkyard Jake’s NFL Draft Page gives you several options for following the NFL Draft that is off the beaten path. Complete with an NFL Mock Draft, NFL Draft Links, NFL Draft Prospect Rankings, and news feeds. One of those “One Stop Shops” if you will.

For those who do not have the NFL Network, you can pretend at NFL.com by watching it there. Pretty cool offering. They must have realized they will make more friends doing that than thinking we will run out and get it if we can’t see the Combine stuff.

Don’t you get sick of hearing about all these guys that we already know are going to go in the first round? YAHOO! Sports has some sleepers to watch.

The College All-Star games come and go pretty quick. We hear how the big names did in the media but some people want to know about the lesser-known names. NFL Draft Dog has some hidden gems in his College All-Star Games page. Check’em out!

The press is preparing itself for the “I told you so” if the Lions do not go QB by subtly putting out there that maybe they should not take a signal caller.

Checking on the NFL Draft Prospects is a bit easier using College Football Stats. Nice place.

NFL Mock Drafts should be shaking up in the next few weeks after the combine. For now, there are many that update every few days swinging with the latest news on the prospects.

This morning I have been going over our partner mocks in our Mock Draft Database. Let’s share, shall we?

Matt Stafford continues to be the front runner in 80 percent of the partner mocks listed. Others mentioned as the Top Pick are Mark Sanchez (2), Eugene Monroe (1), and Andre Smith (1).

Something happening in a couple of the non-partner mocks listed, that can only be described as…well…silly…is Aaron Curry going No. 1 overall.

Not taking away from Curry, but OLB is not a hot spot for the No. 1 pick overall (LB has been taken No. 1 overall only THREE times since 1950).

If the Lions stray from the QB option, it is more likely that they start building at the O and D lines outward.

Brett Favre has retired again, bringing QB talk to the NFL Draft for the Jets. The Football Expert has the Jets taking Mark Sanchez at No. 17…

17. New York Jets - Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
Brett Favre is now officially retired, again. The Jets don’t seem to have any faith in Kelly Clemens as their future quarterback, so the Jets take their franchise quarterback.

This will be a tough move for the Jets as you would expect Rex Ryan to want either James Laurinaitis or Tyson Jackson, who both would immediately help out his 3-4 defense. But the rule is: If you need a franchise quarterback, and he is on the board, you can’t pass him up.

Fantasy Football Xtreme has Iowa’s Shonn Green moving up into the first round and landing with the Eagles.

Walter Football is on board with with those thinking that Texas Tech WR Michael Crabtree will not go past the Rams at No. 2 overall.

That will do it for today. Football Jabber will swing back at you later in the week as we see the pre-combine mocks shape up.

Five Steps To a Fantasy Football Dynasty League

Lee Johnson — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 07:21:19 -0500

Five Steps to a Fantasy Football Dynasty League

Yes folks, the NFL is a year-round sport. We are only a couple weeks removed from the Super Bowl and we are gearing up for the NFL Combine, then Free Agency, the NFL Draft, and before you know it Training Camp.

There is a 24/7 TV station dedicated to it and ESPN runs a daily half-hour show all year. With this, Fantasy Football has itself become a popular year-round game. Have you wanted to try a Dynasty League but don’t know where to start?

Every year around this time there is a buzz that begins from those guys that just can’t let go (I’ll admit, I was one of them). Already this “Offseason” we have been getting hits from football related forums in topics on how to start a Dynasty league.

Last season we put together a series of details on constructing a successful Dynasty League called Dynasty 101, that walks you through setting up your league. Over the last year we have received hundreds of requests to view the Rulebook it was based on before it was realized we could just give it it’s own page here (which cleared up my inbox).

With it being a time of year when the Dynasty thoughts are starting up again maybe we should give another quick lesson to the potential Dynasty Class of 2009 Fantasy Football Players.

Step One: Is Fantasy Football Dynasty for Me?

Ask yourself these questions before jumping in. Are you ready to commit to a league...and most of a roster...for more than one season? If not, it isn’t the place for you. This isn’t your Average Joe Re-Draft league, the idea of a Dynasty league is to build and shape your team year after year.

Are you willing to play the game outside of the months September-January? Of course you can set the league up to be as active in the offseason as you like but many Dynasty Leagues want to emulate the NFL and often have activity around the NFL Offseason schedule as well.

If you have answered “Yes” to these questions then we are ready to move on to setting this thing up. If you answered “No” you are welcome to move on as well because you may change your mind…and you are here anyway, right?

Step Two: Getting Your Owners.

Chances are if you are considering this league you are already playing with a group of people. Ideally you should have ten or more owners. If you have that many people that you think can answer “YES” to Step One above, you are set.

If not, most football related sites that have a fantasy section have a place you can call out for new owners. Ten to 16 teams is a good range, just keep in mind the rosters get thinner the more teams you have.

Be wary of starting the league and taking on owners on a whim. Some people that are bored and jump in the league in April may not even stay in the league until kickoff of the season.

Seriously, if you are starting the league and the guy who didn’t set a roster for five straight weeks in your re-draft wants in, don’t just let him in to fill an open team! Wait for the right owner and it will be better for your league.

Step Three: Elect a Commissioner

This is better done sooner rather than later. Appoint someone who can say “NO” if needed and isn’t afraid of hurting feelings. Sounds harsh, huh? Truth is, you are not going to make everyone happy so you need someone who can get past that.

The Commish is there to be the final say in league decisions and enforce the rules of the league, for the good of the league.

Step Four: Find a Home For Your League

Everyone has a place on the net that they prefer for Fantasy Football. You and your owners can battle this one out as to where you want to host it, just be sure that you have year-round access to everything in the league. Unless things have changed at Yahoo, this eliminates them.

You have the option of going with a free service where control may be limited, or with a pay service that you can really feel it is YOUR league. Football Jabber has used MyFantasyLeague.com for years for it’s leagues and has never had a reason to even think about leaving.

Go set up a free trial (which would not have to be paid on until the season) to get a feel for it, chances are you will never leave either. No, we don’t work for them, just love the product, but you can help us save a few bucks if you do get a league there by entering our referral code:#40174.

For communication purposes you should look into a league forum. You should be able to have a place where you can post rules, polls, and other notes. If you already have a forum that you frequent you may be able to get them to hook you up, especially if the league is for that site.

If not, there are free options like Zetaboards. You can use Yahoo (although I hated the experience) and Google Groups. We can even create a forum for your league for free at Football Jabber Forums and give your Commish Moderator abilities for that forum.

Step Five: Establish the Rulebook

It would be wise to spend some time on this before your league kicks off and you start filling rosters. By the way, don’t start a Dynasty League on the rosters from last years Re-Draft league.

You will often hear someone say something like, “We should make this a Dynasty or Keeper league…” and it is usually being said by the guys who are at the top of the league standings. You need to fill your rosters with Dynasty in mind.

How detailed should the Rulebook be? Depends on how successful you want the league to be. You should go into the building of the Rulebook with it in mind that you want to have an answer for every “What if” and “BUT” that someone can throw at you.

You won’t get them all, something will always come up, so you should write in an offseason rule discussion period for changes. Never, EVER make serious rule changes during the season unless absolutely necessary!

So what should go in this Rulebook we speak of? Don’t get overwhelmed, just take the time to put it together. Here are somethings to consider…

How many teams are in the league? Are you going to consider expansion later? May want to come up with those rules now too.

How much is it to play? Is this free or a pay league (many Dynasty Leaguers feel that some $$ is needed to ensure commitment from owners)? What is the payout if it is a pay league?

How long is the regular season? What week does it end? Is the Championship in the dreaded Week 17? Will we play Double Headers in some weeks?

How many playoff teams are there? What are the tiebreakers to determine who gets in?

How are we filling rosters? Auction, Draft? Will there be a separate draft for Rookies and Vets?

Are we using a Team Defense/Special Teams or Individual Defensive Players? How many starters are there? How many roster spots are there? What is the scoring system? Do you get points per reception?

What about player turnover? How long can I keep a player? Are there contracts? Do we just keep so many players per year? Is there a Salary Cap? How do we pick up Free Agents?

So what is the deal with trades? When can I make them? Does the contract go with him if we use those? Can I trade draft picks?

That is just a taste of how in depth you can get. Take your time and have fun with it. Hopefully you picked a good active group of owners who will get in on the discussion to form the league.

Getting into a Fantasy Football Dynasty League will change the way you view the game, especially if you use Individual Defensive Players (IDP). You will have a whole new outlook on the NFL Draft and College Football as you are scouting your players.

So…if you are ready to take the dive and want a bigger picture on how to get the thing started, check out the Dynasty 101 series linked up top there. If you have any questions, want to see a Rulebook, or want to call us names, leave a comment or stop in the Football Jabber forums.

Post-Super Bowl NFL Mock-Draft Update

Lee Johnson — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 07:53:19 -0500

Little things annoy me, although they are not really a big deal at all. Not knowing the NFL Draft order while doing a mock draft is that way. Although the order is the same now as we projected a few weeks ago, there is some relief that it is now set for certain and we can get down to business.

With that, the latest NFL Mock Draft has been posted…

Two things have happened in recent weeks that have shaped where we are now. The Senior Bowl and the Super Bowl. The Super Bowl was really only for my OCD satisfaction of getting the order straight as the needs for the teams there at the end did not change and the picks would not have changed much given the results.

As for the Senior Bowl, we got to see what some of the talent could do under a microscope. Some players gave their stock a push while some higher profile players chose not to participate.

Next Stop…the NFL Combine. WOW, it is only a couple of weeks away!

Anyway, we were here about a Mock Draft, right? Here is a look at some of the picks…

No. 1 Detroit- Matt Stafford

Yes there is a debate between Stafford and Sanchez being the top QB. It is a two horse race and Stafford leads. Sanchez has some huge upside but you cannot make him the first overall pick based on the little game experience he has. You hear this phrase often and it rarely works out as well as it did for Matt Ryan…Matt Stafford is the most NFL ready of the available QB’s in the draft. There is also debate as to whether the Lions should even use this on a QB.

No. 7 Oakland- Jeremy Maclin

The logical pick here is to take an Offensive Tackle to protect the last two first round picks for the Raiders (insert Al Davis logic joke). We did in fact have the Raiders taking Baylor OT, Jason Smith in a previous mock. In all the other Mocks we have done though this season, the man has been Jeremy Maclin.

No. 9 Green Bay-Malcolm Jenkins

This is actually a tough spot to call. We now know that Dom Capers is going to bring the 3-4 to town, causing many a mock to insert LB’s and all-stud DT, B.J. Raji here. Capers and McCarthy have said though that they are not going to force the 3-4 right away and are going to work with the talent they have. Drafting Jenkins is a no brainer no matter the system.

They certainly could draft for the system but we are going to wait a bit to see how that plays out before moving Jenkins.

No. 14 New Orleans-Brian Cushing

You hear it every year…CB or LB for the Saints. Well, it is still needed. In previous mocks we have assumed that the Saints did not retain Jonathan Vilma and went with James Laurinaitis and Rey Maualuga here.

Yes, there has even been a Vontae Davis sighting a few weeks ago here. This time around we went with a “What if Vilma stays?” approach. Cushing would make a fantastic addition on the outside with Vilma on the inside.

There is a few snips from the top half. To see the whole mock draft and some prospect videos, GO HERE.

Browsing the NFL Mock Drafts | Senior Bowl Shakes'Em Up!

Lee Johnson — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 07:13:55 -0500

With the Senior Bowl in the books, the next stop is the NFL Combine. NFL Mock Drafts have been adjusted to reflect the winners and losers of the Senior Bowl and new names are popping into the Top 10. It’s time again to scan through our NFL Mock Draft Database and look for some NFL Draft Jabber...

The new in thing to do appears to be to make the first overall pick an Offensive Tackle. If you look over the mocks in the database you will see that there are three names at the Offensive Tackle position that appear to be interchangeable.

Someone may break away from the pack but none of them have made any separation at this time. A very good point is made at Walter Football regarding the lack of a true outright OT, and the fresh start leading to Matt Stafford being the top pick for the Detroit Lions.

It appears that the first time we will see if a team will ignore a MAJOR need and go another direction is with the Rams pick at No. 2. Michael Crabtree, WR-Texas Tech, is popping up in this spot in some places (Sports2Debate).

Certainly, the Rams can use him, as most teams could make a case for it, their WR’s are getting older. Seriously though, the Rams need to jump on whichever OT establishes himself as the No. 1 at the position or the Rams will look a lot like the Lions for another year.

You can have all the WR’s you want but if it seems like you are playing three guys on the O-Line it isn’t going to help.

The NFL Draft Dog has made the call on Knowshon Moreno being the first RB taken and he goes to the Cleveland Browns. Most mocks have Aaron Curry going here. Moreno could be the last piece to a young set of skill position players added for the Browns in the last few years.

B.J. Raji made waves Senior Bowl week at Defensive Tackle. The highest we have noticed him going so far was at No. 8 to the Jaguars at Sunday Kickoff. With a few teams moving to a 3-4 Raji has been brought up in conversation as the best guy to be plugged in at NT.

One of the teams he has been mentioned with is the Green Bay Packers. Looking at the page, it’s noticed that Malcolm Jenkins is listed for the Packers here, too. With all the mock drafts out there the Jenkins to Packers pick appears to be one of the most agreed upon at this point.

Rob Rang at CBS Sports has put his mock out this week. First interesting thing to jump off the page is Everrett Brown, DE-Florida State, going No. 3 to the Chiefs. He points out Brown’s Senior Bowl performance and Scott Pioli’s drafting of Defensive Line in New England as reasons.

This mock draft has players landing in places that I have yet to see this season in mock drafts.

Don Banks at CNN/SI has the Saints taking USC OLB, Brian Cushing at No. 14. The popular choice for the Saints here has been CB and even MLB assuming that Jonathan Vilma is not retained.

OLB is a glaring need as well for the Saints and I have to say I’m surprised there has not been more of this pick out there. Makes sense...although just about anything on defense does.

Back next week with more Scanning of the NFL Mock Drafts. Subscribe via RSS for a big nuthin! Check out what is happening daily on NFL Draftness at NFL Draft Hub.

Scanning NFL Mock Drafts | Underclassmen Are Now in or Out

Lee Johnson — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 07:48:29 -0500

Scanning NFL Mock Drafts | Underclassmen Are Now in or Out

Declaring day has passed for Underclassmen to throw their hat into the ring for the NFL Draft. Mock Drafts are starting to take shape. Some had to be reworked for the kids that have decided to stay in school as well as for those that said they are entering the NFL Draft.

Let’s have a look at how this changed the face of some mock drafts in our Database…

Note: If you go to a mock draft listed and find that the pick is different than discussed keep in mind these mock drafts are updated often. The date listed behind the link was the updated version listed when linked to. We now return to regularly scheduled Mockness…

So you may have heard that Mark Sanchez has decided to enter the NFL Draft. If not, ask Pete Carrol…he has an opinion on it. Mockers have basically welcomed Sanchez into the position vacated by Oklahoma QB, Sam Bradford.

The difference is that in most Sanchez is not moving past the number three position at Kansas City. Bradford and Matt Stafford seemed pretty even at the No. 1 spot. Advantage Matt Stafford? Not so says Football’s Future(1/17), who has him at No. 1 in Detroit…

Many have Matt Stafford pegged as the top QB, but Sanchez is on the same level. Sanchez is a work in progress but may be a bit more consistent and should do very well on the post season circuit. Detroit needs a QB and a player that can handle the pressure that comes with the #1 spot and being the face of the franchise, and Sanchez has the maturity to carry that load.

Personally, because of the difference in time put in on the job, I have Matt Stafford at the top spot and Mark Sanchez falling to Kansas City(1/16). That could change by the next update though…

The Chiefs seem to be the first real mystery spot of the draft that could go in many directions. Walter Football gives a break down HERE(1/16) on the different options and what they think will happen for the Chiefs.

While RB’s struggle in many of the mock drafts, Fantasy Football Xtreme(1/16) still has three RB’s going within five picks of each other. Each of these backs can be pictured in the positions they have them falling but some New York Jets fans are going to throw a fit that they don’t need one with Thomas Jones.

Our pals over at The Hazean (1/13) have Offensive Tackle going in the first two spots. In fact, they have four OT’s drafted before Matt Stafford falls to the 49ers at the No. 10 pick.

Think that is against the grain? Draft Guru(1/16) has OT going to the Top Three spots. They have the 49ers taking Mark Sanchez and Matt Stafford going to the Bills. Have to say this is the first I have seen of a QB to the Bills in the first round.

How soon we forget about the wounded. Sport City(1/16) has the Pittsburgh Steelers taking a Running Back in the first round for the second year in a row. This year they take LeSean McCoy from Pitt.

My diehard Steelers fan cousin will be calling today (seriously, his son’s middle name is Steeler...no lie) to discuss the AFC Championship game, can’t wait to throw this at him.

Draft Ace (1/16) goes against the grain as well by placing Wake Forest OLB, Aaron Curry, in the No. 2 spot for the Rams. Sure the Rams could use him and the guy is a stud. Will the Rams use a No. 2 pick on the OLB position though?

So kids, things are about to get fun. This evening we will know all but the last two positions in the NFL Draft order. We can look for a lot of updates in the next few days so keep an eye on the Mock Draft Database!

Scanning the NFL Mock Drafts | Flip Flops at QB and OT

Lee Johnson — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 08:49:37 -0500

Scanning the NFL Mock Drafts | Flip Flops at QB and OT

With the deadline for Underclassmen approaching fast and the NFL Season ending soon as well, the NFL Mock Draft world is lighting up. Many fantasy football sites have turned their focus toward selection day and some NFL Draft sites that have been hibernating are starting to stir. Let’s scan over some of the mock drafts and see what we have this week…

Looking over the Mock Drafts at our NFL Mock Draft Database, we seem to notice a common occurrence. Some mock drafters can’t seem to make up their mind as to who is the better OT and QB to be the first taken at those positions. Matt Stafford and Sam Bradford are often swapped for the Lions at the number one pick when the Mocks are updated.

The same thing has been apparent with Michael Oher and Andre Smith at the OT position. Three of those four names are listed in the Top Three of a large percentage of the mock drafts we have listed. Is the talent that close at the top?

Unfortunately, my inner Encyclopedia Brown kicks in sometimes, making me think that there are different motives. Many Mock Drafts are fed hits by Mock Draft Databases. These sites with the Databases often update and list by the date that the mocks have updated, moving the new to the top, sending more traffic their way.

I have no issue with it when the mocker has a legit reason for making a move…which 99% of them do, I’m sure. It’s when they move two players at the same position (like mentioned above), slap a new “Updated” date on it but have not bothered to update the NFL Draft order in the later half of the mock that raises the stink eye.

With that said, how close do you think the races are at these positions? Do you feel either Matt Stafford or Sam Bradford are a step ahead of the other? How about the OT’s? Will Michael Oher overtake Andre Smith, who dominated the top OT position in most Mock Drafts not long ago? Will the Lions have “their guy” or will they just negotiate with all these guys (if they keep the pick)?

Elsewhere…we can expect a wave of updates coming next week as the deadline for Underclassmen to declare arrives on January 15th. Things will get fun then. We will know all but the last two names on the NFL Draft order this weekend as well.

One of those guys that we will know soon which direction he is going is Mark Sanchez, QB at USC. There are a few straggling mocks that still list him up in the Top Three.

Running Backs are fun to talk about too, huh? Seriously, a lot of the time those that put their focus on the NFL Draft are filling a hole left by fantasy football, right? Fantasy Football Xtreme lays out the top three RB’s falling like this…

17. Jets- Knowshon Moreno, Georgia
19. Bucs- Shonn Greene, Iowa
21. Cardinals-Chris Wells, Ohio State

All bundled together within a couple picks in the second half of the first round is when they have them starting to fall. I have to say, even being an Iowa fan, I’m surprised to see Greene above Wells here. Not because of the talent as much as the name. Good for you FFX!

Brian Orakpo or Michael Johnson? These are the two Defensive Ends that are showing up the highest. Have you noticed how many top prospects there are with the name Michael?

That’s it for this week’s Scanning the Mocks. Next week we will know who is in and who is out for the Underclassmen. Keep up on who is declaring and other NFL Draft stuffness at NFL Draft Hub.

NFL Jabber | Playoffs and Draft Declarations

Lee Johnson — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:38:35 -0500

NFL Jabber | Playoffs and Draft Declarations

The next few days are just a treat for the football fan. NFL Playoff games, kids declaring for the NFL Draft, and the Anti-Playoff in the BCS Championship game. In a time when we should be feeling like football is ending soon, it feels like it is just beginning in some ways. Let’s have a look around football with some NFL Jabber...

If you would like to try using a classic football pick method this Playoff Season, check into using the old tried and true Chambers Theory.

Cardinals @ Panthers Jabber

Most would find it hard to believe that there would be question whether or not Anquan Boldin played this week after paying with a broken face earlier in the season. There is a struggle with the decision this week though.

“If it was just up to me, I would say I’m going no matter what,” Boldin said Wednesday after sitting out practice. “At the same time, you’ve got to be smart and not damage it further.”

If you take this kind of thing to heart...The Cards were 0-5 on the East Coast this season and were blown out in three of those.

The Panthers are not fooled by the sudden running game in Arizona. They know that it is them against the passing game.

The Charlotte Observer asked it’s readers if they were a Panther Convert. I know when I lived in Charlotte, it seemed that everyone there was from somewhere else, so some of those Panther fans had to do it. Notice how the Convert from Pittsburgh signed his name as Anonymous.

Ravens @ Titans Jabber

In preparation for the Titans, the Ravens have brought in...Firemen to practice against. Seriously. Well, it isn’t just for the Titans, they have been doing it all season.

Joe Flacco has come a long way since these two teams played in October. “Boneheaded” is the label he himself gives some of his throws.

The Titans are giving away “Rally Towels” for the game. If they lose this game, LenDale White has sent an invitation for 22 Ravens to stomp on them after the game.

Usually, the Tennessean is one of the better home team papers but they surprisingly don’t offer much today. They do have a game where you can Sack Peyton Manning though.

Eagles @ Giants Jabber

So your latest trip to Philly led you to believe that they have a HUGE homeless population? Not as bad as you think, Eagles fans have just joined in the beard thing.

Philly.com has a nice little comparison in the running games of the two teams. It will be interesting to see which direction the game goes.

Poor Antonio Pierce. The New York Times are using his inability to contain Brian Westbrook on two TD’s as a lead in to a story on this weekends game. “Hey, Antonio...Remember when Westbrook ran all over you and you couldn’t catch him and stuff? Wanna talk about it?”

“I had man coverage,” Pierce said at the time. “I chose outside and he ran inside.”

When watching the playoff games this weekend, remember there is more than that going on in New York. These two teams absolutely hate each other.

Chargers @ Steelers Jabber

May we see the return of the Steelers running game when they take on the Chargers? If Willie Parker has his way, they are going to “take back” the respect they deserve as a running team.

Although you don’t hear the Offensive Line speak up much, the Steelers O-Line would like to see a return to smash-mouth running as well.

As expected, the talk is heating up about the cold for the Chargers in Pittsburgh.

There will be no worry of L.T. coming out of the important game at a key time this season. He will be on the sidelines for this one from the start.

“I don’t think anybody can know the frustration,” said Tomlinson, dealing with a debilitating injury for the second straight postseason. “It’s tough dealing with it. … I really sometimes want to go home and stay and lock myself up and not go in public just because all my life all I ever wanted to do was play football. That’s all I ever wanted to do, win a championship.

“To feel so helpless, to be at this point where we have a chance to do it and again, I can’t do anything about it, I can’t play. … It’s like I’m being punished for something, and it’s tough to deal with.”

Check out the Phenomenal Previews at Sports Jabber for more on the NFl Playoff games.

NFL Draft Jabber

Big news on the NFL Draft Prospect front is that Matt Stafford and Knowshon Moreno will be entering the draft in 2009. That means that many of the NFL Mock Drafts in our Mock Draft Database will not have to take Stafford out of one of the top spots just yet.

It will be interesting to see how Moreno moves now. Some of the experts are saying that if he came out they could see him being the first RB taken over Ohio State’s Chris “Beanie” Wells.

Georgia Coach, Mark Richt:

“I think whichever NFL teams get them will be very excited and very blessed by it,” Richt said. “They’ll not only be good players but they’ll be good in their locker rooms and good in their communities. They’re gonna do well.”

Tim Tebow is not saying yet whether or not he is entering the draft, concentrating on that little game against Oklahoma. There is not a lot of talk in his favor as far being an NFL QB. Barry Switzer weighed in with his thoughts…

“He’ll be given the opportunity, and we’ll find out down the road,” he said. “People questioned if Vince Young — I questioned him myself — if he could play in the NFL, if he could make the throws he’d need to make in the NFL. He’s struggling. We’ll find out if (Tebow) can do that.

“I think (Tebow has) a better arm, better delivery and throws a good ball. He just plays a different style. He’s an old single-wing tailback. He’s a throwback guy. … He presents a hell of a problem for defenses.”

Everette Brown is throwing his name in the hat, making him one of the top pass rushers in the draft.

Bookmark the NFL Draft Hub for the latest NFL Draftness.

Can't Miss NFL Playoff Picks and Updated Mock Drafts

Lee Johnson — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 02:02:05 -0500

NFL Playoff Picks and Updated Mock Drafts

Are you scratching your head wondering what teams to pick this week in your office NFL Playoff pool? Today, I’m going to bring you a classic, tried-and-true method to pick teams in the NFL. We will also take a look at the Updated NFL Mock Draft Database, where many Mock Drafts have been adjusted for the New Year.

You want to know how to pick these games first, huh? Okay, I’m going to tell you something that is so simple that you will wonder how you didn’t think of it. Some of you kids may have heard about this method from your Father or Grandfather.

There was once a wizard prognosticator named Diane Chambers. She worked out of a bar in Boston, a nice small little place where everyone seemed to know your name. Chambers drew from the works of Charles Darwin and determined that you could predict the outcome of football games simply be looking at who would take out who if it came to blows.

This week we will apply The Chambers Theory to the NFL Playoff Games.*

Cardinals vs. Panthers (-10)

Birds are not given much credit as kick a$$ creatures, Cardinals in particular. Out of the eight playoff teams that played in the wild-card round, half of them were birds. The Cardinals took out a seemingly tougher bird in the Falcons. While that is impressive and all, the bird is no match to a Panther.

They have big claws and stuff, and when the cat is not named Sylvester, the cat usually wins this matchup.

Ravens vs. Titans (-3)

Another bird. This a bigger and scarier bird. There was once even a pretty popular story about a scary Raven. To get here they took out a big fish. It wasn’t like it was a Shark or anything, if you play combine the word sissy with swimming mammal, you get Dolphin.

Dolphins don’t have swords like Titans do either. This one is tough to call because if the Raven can avoid the big blade they could pull this one out. If it’s straight up, take the Titans and the carving knife.

Eagles vs. Giants (-4)

Another friggen bird. Hitchcock would be inspired. The Eagles are a big bird. Not big and yellow but bigger than a Raven or Cardinal. The Eagles showed that you can take out a big unshaven guy with a sword, giving the Ravens hope this week.

We have to think though that although annoyingly flying around like a fly, they will be brushed off by the Giant. Big and sometimes clumsy, the Giant can be overcome. We have to lean in his favor though.

Chargers vs. Steelers (-6)

This is where it gets tricky. Electricity really can’t hurt you if you stay away and don’t mess with it. It’s not going to “come after” you right? Even lightning isn’t very good at that.

But what if you have to pass by it? The Colts learned. Why do you think they surround fields full of animals with electric fences out there in the country? Because the stuff hurts.

If at all possible, other than water, what do you NOT want to come in contact with electricity? Metal...STEEL. This poses a problem for the Steelers. In a normal situation, I would have to take the Steelers in this game but using The Chambers Theory, we have to go with the Chargers.

So there you have it. Your tool for gaining riches in the new year! Speaking of new year, we have had some updates already to the NFL Mock Drafts in our Mock Draft Database.

We list the top three picks for from each and then the links for you to go check them out for yourself. Let’s have a look at the score for the number one pick for the Lions so far…

Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia 14

Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma 13

Andre Smith, OT, Alabama 6

Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia, 1

Everett Brown, DE, Florida State 1

*Don’t bet your house using this. This is for entertainment purposes only. Seriously, this was off a sitcom in the '80s. While it was considered ground breaking and funny at the time I would not take Cheers as serious as I would...say...an episode of Seinfeld.

Scanning the 2009 NFL Mock Drafts | Andre Smith Doesn't Fall

Lee Johnson — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 01:21:14 -0500

Scanning the 2009 NFL Mock Drafts | Andre Smith Doesn’t Fall

So our first scandal leading up to the 2009 NFL Draft does not appear to cause Alabama’s Andre Smith to fall in the NFL Mock Drafts. Nick Saban has said that the suspension for some sort of dealings with an agent are in-house and not an NCAA matter.

Andre Smith is also saying that he has not ruled out a return to 'Bama in 2009, either. Looking over the Mock Draft Database at Football Jabber, Andre Smith still consistently comes in as a Top Three Pick. Looks have a look how the others are doing in some updated NFL Mocks…

Scout.com has Matt Stafford out of the Top Three, but not for long. Chris Steuber projects him landing with the Seahawks. This makes sense, as with the Big Show ending his run in Seattle, it could be starting over time in Seattle. What am I saying, could be? The Seahawks are picking fourth. It is starting over time!

Are you curious where you think Tim Tebow will be falling in the draft if he participates this season? You won’t see that on most Mocks because a majority are only looking at the first round, but Draft Tek has him because they are projecting a whopping SIX NFL ROUNDS of NFL Mockness!

They have him going to the Houston Texans in the second round.

Fantasy Football Xtreme has the Texans taking Georgia Tech DE Michael Johnson. WOW! Could you imagine Michael Johnson and Mario Williams on the same defensive line?

The Football Expert has Chris “Beanie” Wells staying in Ohio as the Running Back in Cleveland. They cite the age of Jamal Lewis and the NFL being a two-back league as reasons for the pick, which are both good reasons. They do also point out that the Browns could go defense here.

Despite that trophy thingy, it is still Matt Stafford over Sam Bradford to join the Detroit Ford’s at Walter Football. Reasoning is simple. They don’t think that Bradford comes out because he is only a Redshirt Soph.

The Draft King weighs out the options at the No. 1 pick, debating QB or Defense, before finally settling on Sam Bradford.

If Michael Crabtree decides to come out, NFL Mock Draft Aces has him going from a Red Raider to an Oakland Raider. Crabtree, JaMarcus Russell, and Darren McFadden? That certainly would make for an interesting group if they got the help they needed up front to let them play the game.

Until next time, keep up on the happenings at our branch off NFL Draft Hub and the new NFL Mock Draft Database!

Scanning the 2009 NFL Mock Drafts

Lee Johnson — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:52:08 -0500

NFL Draft Jabber |Scanning the NFL Mock Drafts

The NFL regular season is over for 20 teams. You can bet that some of them are already looking toward to the 2009 NFL Draft just as many fans are. Over the recent weeks many NFL Mock Drafts have already been popping up. So let’s have a look at some of those Mock Drafts that are already going…

Yesterday I was scanning over the Mock Draft Database at Football Jabber looking for some things that jumped out at me. Eleven of the Mock Drafts had been updated in the last week, which is a good sign for those that browse them often. You can bet more will this week as the NFL Draft order is becoming more clear.

Of the first round draft picks listed for the Detroit Lions, 21 of them were QB’s, nine of them were Sam Bradford. So the popular pick for the first team to go 0-16 is a Quarterback. Makes since, I guess there would not be a better time to start over. With the great talent at O-Line this year we are sure to hear some arguments over how they should use it.

Another team that is starting over in a sense is the Kansas City Chiefs. QB for them too? Here is what The Draft King has to say on that…

3. Kansas City Chiefs - Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia *
The articles I saw a month or so ago anointing Tyler Thigpen as the quarterback of the future for the Chiefs have disappeared as of late. There’s a reason for this: Kansas City has only two wins.

It looked likely that the Chiefs would take a QB high in round one before Carl Peterson stepped down from the team’s GM/president role. But now, with Peterson gone, is seems even more likely that the Chiefs will look to the draft to select a blue chip quarterback.

Not so fast! NFL Draft Blitz has Matt Stafford going to the St. Louis Rams in the No. 2 position.

One of the top picks that jumped out at me was USC’s QB, Mark Sanchez, picked by Raul Colon at FF Toolbox. Not a name we hear associated with the top pick much, have to wonder if some homerness is coming into play.

I’m a New Orleans Saints fan myself and I have to say that I do find Sideline Scouting’s first round choice for the Saints a bit puzzling…

14. New Orleans Saints - RB Chris Wells (Ohio State)*
On the surface, this is a mind-boggling selection, but let’s take a dive into the situation. Pierre Thomas and Deuce McAllister are both set to be out of New Orleans this offseason. We all know from his Denver days that Mike Bell is simply not the right guy to have sharing the rock with Reggie Bush. Therefore, we have a strong feeling that the Saints will chase after a running back early in 2009.

Myself, I think it is more than likely the Saints will be happy to keep giving the ball to Pierre Thomas for another year. Their running game is pretty poor, but as we hear about every damn season, they need help on DEFENSE if they even end up with the pick.

(UPDATE: Since writing this Sideline Scouting has changed their pick for the New Orleans Saints to CB Vontae Davis)

Scanning the Mock Drafts will be a regular thing at FootballJabber.com from now until the draft happens so go ahead and subscribe to the RSS Feed or bookmark it. You can also keep up on NFL Mock Drafts, Draft Prospect News, NFL team draft news, and prospect highlight videos at NFL Draft Hub.

Surviving the Drafting of Tom Brady in Fantasy Football

Lee Johnson — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 11:05:35 -0500

Surviving the Drafting of Tom Brady

In 2007 Tom Brady outscored the rest of the fantasy football players by 100 points or more in most scoring formats. You remember that, right?

He had more than 100 over LT even in leagues that gave 0.5 points per reception. Going into the 2008 Fantasy Football draft he was coming in at an average of the sixth pick in the first round at Fantasy Football Calculator.

Tom Brady had become the new Peyton Manning, going mid-first round if not earlier. Then Week One came...

I had never owned Tom Brady before 2008. It was rare that I ever took a quarterback in the first two rounds. Technical difficulties (me not knowing my way around the new ESPN Draft Room) and drafting best available led me to it in two re-draft leagues this season.

Although all hope looked to be lost in week one for those Brady drafters, we learned 15 weeks later that it was possible to survive the drafting of Tom Brady.

Case Study No. 1

In the Football Jabber Re-Draft League Brady joined the Quahog Evil Monkeys after the GM (me) could not find the "submit" button. Seriously. It was pretty comical, I must admit.

I had Marion Barber III all set to go and spent my entire time on the clock trying to find the button, which turned out to be up away from everything in the upper right corner of the screen.

So...I timed out and was given Tom Brady. At the time, I thought it could have been worse, though I was going to struggle at running back.

When Brady went down I was in the same boat as many others, thinking their season was done. Essentially without a first-round pick now, I grasped at Matt Cassel off the waiver wire.

Might as well see what I can do as a spoiler, right? Cassel did little for my hopes at the start of the season, but who knew he would finish so strong?

With Cassel at QB and the surprise RB duo of Matt Forte and Pierre Thomas (Mewelde Moore helped in those Willie Parkerless weeks), The Evil Monkeys pulled out a Wild Card spot and eventual championship.

I had survived the drafting of Tom Brady.

Case Study No. 2

This season I was invited to play in the Bum Phillips Texas Barbeque Fantasy Experts Challen ge, hosted by JunkYard Jake’s Fantasy Football Network.

I was seriously looking forward to being pitted against reps from Junkyard Jakes, Roto World, Fantasy Football Whiz, FF Report, Fantasy Sports Central, Walter Football, FF Jungle, FF Toolbox, Fantasy Index, Monster Draft, and Fantasy Football Xtreme.

In 2007 I had won an experts league and thought it would be fun to take these guys on.

The draft took place in late July, using the 24-hour pick method.

After painfully missing out on Marion Barber once again, I was left with the choice of Brady or Frank Gore at the No. 7 position. I was not going to go with Randy Moss, even though he had been going early in some drafts.

I had just finished doing multiple mock drafts testing the Triplets vs. Stud RB theory and threw Best Available in the mix to determine the best ways to draft at each draft spot. The Best Available Theory won out at the No. 7 spot and, with that, all signs pointed to Brady.

Again, we know how that worked out.

Halfway through the first game of the season I was ticked off because I thought that my season was over. There was no way I could compete when I essentially had no first round pick.

Taking a QB that early really throws off your team if it does not pan out. You are looking at the middle of the second round before you get to pick again.

I’m here to tell you kids...that second round pick of Willis McGahee didn’t pan out so well, either! Season lost?

Remember way back there when I said the draft took place in July?

Remember what was going on then? Brett Favre had just returned to the Packers, maybe. Nobody knew what was going to happen in Green Bay. I decided to take Aaron Rodgers in the 13th round, figuring I would only need him for a week, and if he didn’t get the job in Green Bay I could just pick someone up for Brady’s week four bye.

I also took DeAngelo Williams in the ninth round. That turned out to soften the blow of the McGahee fiasco of a second-round pick.

So how did that work out? Rodgers finished as the third QB in the league. Williams, who I also drafted to fill the week four bye, figuring he may hold off Jonathan Stewart at least that long, finished as the No. 1 RB in the league.

Football Jabber finished the regular season as the Total Points Champs and lost in the title game by eight points to FF Toolbox.

Basically without my first two picks in the draft. That is another case of Surviving the Drafting of Tom Brady.

Your Case Study?

Did you survive the Drafting of Tom Brady? Do you want to sulk about drafting Brady and your season not turning out so well?

Let’s hear it!

2008 Fantasy Football All-Stud Team

Lee Johnson — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 22:45:06 -0500

2008 Fantasy Football All-Stud Team

How can we have the All-Stud Team already? The 2008 Fantasy Football Regular Season is in the books folks. In the NFL, they base performance and stats on the regular season, right? Why shouldn’t we do that?

Half of the owners in fantasy leagues are done for the year, so are the players on their rosters. Let’s have a look at the studs from the 2008 fantasy regular season…

Scoring is based on:

Passing TD’s= 4 points
Passing Yards: 20 yards =1 point
Rushing/Receiving TD’s=6 points
Rushing/Receiving Yards: 10 yards= 1 point
Receptions= 1/2 point
Two point Conversions=2 points

*Stats and points are taken up to Week 13, the end of the regular season for most fantasy football leagues.

*Average Draft Position is data from 3404 drafts between September 1, 2008 and September 6, 2008 @ Fantasy Football Calculator.

QUARTERBACKS

QB: Drew Brees, Saints
ADP: 3.01
Fantasy Points: 277

In the preseason, Brees crept up into our top three in the Fantasy Re-Draft QB Rankings. This was kind of a tough one as it went against the grain and bumped Peyton Manning out of the top three. Whodathunk that it was being undershot by two positions?

It is really remarkable how Brees performed with a banged up offense that saw him spread it out to 14 different receivers. His chase in breaking Dan Marino’s single season yardage record is to the delight of his fantasy owners.

Jabbertastic Game: Brees lit up the Green Bay Packers in Prime Time for Four TD’s and 323 yards in Week 12, setting the table for many a fantasy playoff clinching.

QB: Kurt Warner, Cardinals
ADP: 11.07
Fantasy Points: 261

What year is this? Warner was just a placeholder until Matt Leinart would reclaim the starting QB job in Arizona for many fantasy football owners. “Hey, I have Tom Brady on a bye week in week four…maybe Warner will still be starting by then, I can take him as a backup…”

How many laughs would we have got in the preseason saying that Kurt Warner would be one of the top fantasy QB’s at the end of 2008…and have two of his receivers at the top of the WR list…and have the Cardinals clinching the NFC West early? Crazy stuff. Way to go Kurt.

Jabbertastic Game: Many people said, “It’s just the Dolphins…” when Kurt burned Miami for three TD’s and 361 yards in week two. Tom Brady owners that drafted him as a backup rejoice!

QB: Aaron Rodgers, Packers
ADP: 11.01
Fantasy Points: 256

Aaron Rodgers may have fallen into the same roll as Warner above. Drafted as a backup in fantasy leagues, then taking owners to the fantasy playoffs. Although the Packers are not fairing as well as Warner’s team in real life, Rodgers has established himself as a Fantasy Football Stud QB going into 2009.

For owners that draft a little early, there was a HUGE question mark over the Green Bay QB position. You may have heard about it. Some owners in Dynasty and Keeper leagues were lucky enough to already have Rodgers sitting around. Some people, shame on them, used him as trade bait.

Given that there seems to be a bit of a “changing of the guard” in fantasy football with younger guys moving up the later, Rodgers should be a prime target next season.

Jabbertastic Game: In week 13, just when you need your guys playing at the top of their game, Rodgers throws three TD’s and a two pointer on 298 yards against the Panthers. He also added another 26 yards on the ground.

RUNNING BACKS

RB: Matt Forte, Bears
ADP: 6.10
Fantasy Points: 219

In the Fantasy Calculator Average Draft Position data for Running Backs drafted, there were 27 RB’s taken before Matt Forte. That wasn’t so much on Forte. The Bears rush offense had not been impressing anyone. Forte was a rookie out of Tulane going into that unimpressive rush offense. Wooo were some fantasy owners in for a treat!

Forte’s worst fantasy game he got 85 total yards. It’s been a couple years since you were able to use the word “consistency” when talking about a Bears fantasy RB. His performances in weeks 12 and 13 could have very well have been enough to have taken his owners into the playoffs. It will be interesting to see how his stock goes next season. Will people shake the fact he is on the Bears and draft him according to this years performance?

Jabbertastic Game: Week 12 against the Rams, Forte put up 132 yards rushing and two TD’s. He had two receptions for another 14 yards.

RB: Thomas Jones, Jets
ADP: 3.11
Fantasy Points: 214

Speaking of the Bears rushing game, the last consistent rusher they had was Thomas Jones. He had two good seasons before being traded away to what seemed would be his fantasy graveyard in New York. Wasn’t so much the yards…those were on par with Chicago. But he only got one rushing TD in 2007.

An improved offensive line and new QB changed things for Jones in 2008. After average play through the bye week in week five, Jones blew up to fantasy studness the rest of the regular fantasy season. Eight straight weeks of double digit fantasy points. In 2009 Jones will be going into his 10th season following up his best season to date.

Jabbertastic Game: Like Matt Forte, Jones slapped around the Rams. In Week 10 he put up 149 yards and three TD’s.

RB: Michael Turner, Falcons
ADP: 4.07
Fantasy Points: 200

Michael Turner’s departure from San Diego was one of the most anticipated moves in fantasy football circles for the past few years. On limited work backing up LaDainian Tomlinson while on the Chargers, Turner had shown explosive previews of what he could do. Regardless of the fact that he would land on the pitiful Falcons, owners were licking their chops.

The Falcons getting Turner soured some fantasy owners, influencing them to go a “safer” route in drafts. For those owners that dared to take Turner, they were treated to a Top 3 fantasy performance on the regular season. Starting in week one when he blew up against the Lions you likely heard cries of both pain and joy at the sports bar.

Jabbertastic Game: During a Week 12 matchup against the Panthers, Turner exploded for FOUR TD’s on 117 yards.

RB: Adrian Peterson, Vikings
ADP: 1.02
Fantasy Points: 198

In 2008 Adrian Peterson is one of those rare fantasy football Running Backs that performed somewhat close to as expected. While some people licked their chops thinking how Peterson could capitalize on what he did in his rookie campaign in 2007, they were treated to a feast of points that L.T owners missed out on.

Not the greatest, hence his falling fourth here, but if you look at who was drafted around him owners that took Peterson dodged a bullet. He fell off for a couple games early in the season but then busted out for three straight games in weeks 7-10.

Jabbertastic Game: In Week 10 against the Packers, Peterson rushed for 192 yards and a TD. He added another 33 yards on three receptions.

WIDE RECEIVERS

WR: Anquan Boldin, Cardinals
ADP: 4.01
Fantasy Points: 202

Prior to the 2008 season there was a little concern that there would be a holdout in Arizona. Although talk of not being happy, Anquan Boldin showed up to play. Did he ever. With one of our stud QB’s throwing him the ball, and often, Boldin sits atop the WR list…and that is with missing two games.

Boldin was not the glamorous choice on draft day. The Big names like Randy Moss, Reggie Wayne, and Terrell Owens were going off the board early while Boldin fell to an average of the fourth round. Part way through the season Boldin got his face busted up and missed a couple of games. Despite this, in games he played he did not put up a game that was not double digits until week 13.

Jabbertastic Game: Week two against the Dolphins Boldin caught six passes for 140 yards and THREE TD’s!

WR: Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals
ADP: 2.07
Fantasy Points: 194

One of the other more sought after names on draft day was Larry Fitzgerald. We always hear the question as to if there is enough balls to go around to keep so many guys happy. Either Kurt Warner has a bigger bag of balls then most QB’s or it is possible…if you don’t have a RB to keep happy too.

At the end of the fantasy regular season Fitz trailed his teammate by about a fantasy TD and 20 yards. Like Boldin, Fitz has only one week under double digit scoring up to week 13. Amazing to think you could have started two guys at the same position from the same team and possibly rode them to the Championship game. Rare.

Jabbertastic Game: Fitz put his biggest numbers up on Week 13 with two TD’s and 65 yards on five receptions.

WR: Greg Jennings, Packers
ADP: 5.02
Fantasy Points: 182

Some owners took a pass on Greg Jennings when his name came up on draft day. It was a confusing offseason with Favregate and the unknown of what would be with Aaron Rodgers. Depending on when owners had their drafts the picture became more clear, in his favor or not.

As you may have noticed at the top of the page up there, Aaron Rodgers had a Jabbertastic fantasy season. On the receiving end, literally, was Greg Jennings. It appears that a new era has started in Green Bay. Rodgers has appointed Jennings his favorite target and it is already showing fantasy relevance.

Jabbertastic Game: In week four Jennings hit the Bucs for two TD’s and 109 yards on six receptions.

WR: Andre Johnson, Texans
ADP: 2.07
Fantasy Points: 181

The past few years Andre Johnson has been one of those WR’s that we wanted to do so well but there were always bumps in the road, be it injuries himself, David Carr, or an injured Matt Schaub. That did not stop fantasy owners this season, taking him on average in the mid second round.

Johnson finally delivers on a season. No missed games himself and the transition to Sage Rosenfels in Schaub’s time out did not hurt too bad. After a slow start Johnson never looked back after week five. We knew he was a stud, it was just a matter of putting a whole season together.

Jabbertastic Game: In Week Six against the Dolphins Johnson put up 178 yards and a TD on 10 receptions.

TIGHT ENDS

TE: Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs
ADP: 6.02
Fantasy Points: 190

Another time when we can ask what year it is. There are a couple reasons that this name was not supposed to be here. First, the QB situation in KC…second, Gonzo is supposed to be getting too old. Nobody told him apparently.

As you may notice there is only a 12 point difference between Tony and the top WR at the end of week 13. On average, Gonzalez was the sixth TE taken this year, even though he was second for TE’s in 2007 by only about four points. Given the drop off in talent at TE that is pretty bad. It’s apparent that many owners had sent him out to pasture. Those that didn’t were in for a surprising treat.

Jabbertastic Game: In Week 10 against the Chargers, Gonzo takes in 10 receptions for 113 yards an two TD’s.

TE: Jason Witten, Cowboys
ADP: 4.07
Fantasy Points: 147

In 2008 Jason Witten was hands down the TE to have going into the draft. Sure Terrell Owens is the flashy target for Tony Romo but Witten is the guy when Romo needs help. He was the top TE in 2007 and even bigger things were expected for 2008.

After a strong start Witten went down with injury midseason. From weeks 8-12 feelings for Witten had went from smitten to sour with a lot of owners. He had been a high draft pick in the middle of the fourth round and it was painful to watch the points stop coming in. He ended the season right though after getting healthy and is certain to be the top guy again in 2009.

Jabbertastic Game: Remember a couple lines ago when I said he ended the season right? In Week 13 he put up 115 yards and a TD on nine receptions against the Seahawks.

Bedpan Fantasy Football Injuries of Note: Week 15

Lee Johnson — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 01:37:18 -0500

Bedpan Fantasy Football Inuries of Note, Week 15

Can you smell the fantasy football playoffs in the air? Some only smell tears as they roll by their nose as they didn’t pay attention to who was out or injured last week. Not you though…you are here. Let’s have a look at this fantasy football playoff addition of The Bedpan Fantasy Football Injuries of Note…

Quarterback

Jeff Garcia, Buccaneers: As of now it appears that Garcia will be a go today. Keep an eye on his calf during warm-ups if you can. Sometimes as much as you want to it is really up to your body whether you can play of not and this may be the case with Garcia today.

Trent Edwards, Bills: Things are looking kinda bleak if you are still holding out for Edwards to help you this season. Still listed as Doubtful with his Groin.

Running Back

Brian Westbrook, Eagles: Go ahead and plug him in, ride him to your fantasy championship. He should tear the Browns apart.

Marion Barber, Cowboys: Too bad the fantasy season had to end up this way...for me at at least. Barber is a Game Time decision. If you have someone you can get points out of before the Sunday night game you may want to do so.

LenDale White, Titans: Listed as Questionable and has not been practicing. If you really need him watch for him pregame.

Kevin Smith, Lions: Smith, if you have to use him, should be okay to go against the Colts despite his Questionable listing.

Frank Gore, 49ers: So Gore has not exactly ended up being the Marshall Faulk we had hoped for. It appears he isn’t going to help you in your fantasy playoffs with his bum ankle.

Brandon Jacobs, Giants: Jacobs and his knee will take that week off. Bummer if you needed him in the playoffs.

Joseph Addai, Colts: Leaning toward being the RB bust of the season, Addai should not worry you whether or not you are getting points today. He should be on the bench with his shoulder keeping him out.

Peyton Hillis/ Selvin Young, Broncos: You likely heard this by now but Hillis is out for the season. Another fast rising RB for the Broncos takes another fast fall. So Selvin Young and his Groin are likely to play. Keep an eye on the pregame if you need him.

Wide Receiver

T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Bengals: Housh is likely to play against the Skins. He is listed as probable but is practicing. That is all I need to know to start him! Despite the QB issues he is helping to keep me going in fantasy playoffs.

Calvin Johnson, Lions: Johnson is Questionable but the Lions do not want to be THAT winless team. Watch the pregame stuff and keep an eye out for him.

Steve Breaston, Cardinals: Breaston will be a go against the Vikings. Man, you are hurting if this is news. Not that he can’t get you some points but you would hope to have something a little more solid this deep in the playoffs.

Laveranues Coles, Jets: Coles, as usual, should go today despite the injury report listing. May want to go in a different direction though if you can today.

Tight End

Jason Witten, Cowboys: Something we should know about Witten is that if something isn’t SERIOUS, then we will be seeing him on the field. It appears his ankle won’t keep him out today.

Rookie Review| Fantasy Football Dynasty Scout

Lee Johnson — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:25:01 -0500

Rookie Review | Fantasy Football Dynasty Scout

The Fantasy Football Season rolls on for those in the playoffs, but for many it has come to an end. Some owners in Fantasy Football Dynasty Leagues are already looking forward to the NFL Draft as they know their draft position and are looking at their needs.

There certainly seemed to be more rookies this season that had an unlikely fantasy impact than usual. Let’s have a look at the 2008 Fantasy Football Rookie standouts...

The scoring used for reflection in how these fantasy players performed is as follows...

Passing TD’s=4 pts
All other TD’s=6 pts
Passing Yards= 1 pt point per 20 yards
Rushing/Receiving Yards= 1 pt per 10 yards
Receptions: .5 pt
2 Point Conversions= 2 pts

Scoring is used up to Week 13 as many leagues end their regular season at that point.

Quarterback

You hear it all the time about NFL QB’s in their rookie season. You don’t really want them to have to start. Goes the same in fantasy football. In 2008, with the injuries and benching, some people were forced to pick some rookies up off the waiver wire. There were a couple fellas that did not turn out all too terrible to have in a backup position.

Joe Flacco, Ravens
Position Rank: 14th, 186 pts

Fantasy Football relevance for a Ravens QB was pretty unlikely going into the season. This caused many Dynasty owners to pass on Flacco unless they were desperate. Taken by the Ravens at No. 18 in the draft, we knew he was going to be their guy, didn’t know for sure when.

Unless you have a developmental taxi squad where you can sit guys Flacco was likely not jumping out as a guy you HAD to have in your draft.

After suffering two below average games early in the season Flacco became a consistent backup/bye week QB for owners. His high point came in Week Eight against the Raiders when he posted TDs in the air and on the ground; he even had a reception for 43 yards.

Outlook: If the Ravens ever develop an offense for him to work with, Flacco can become a viable QB option in fantasy football. For Dynasty owners who have him, he is at least going to be a viable backup.

Matt Ryan, Falcons:
Position Rank: 15th, 184 pts

Matt Ryan was picked up by the Falcons with the No. 3 pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. In most fantasy football Dynasty League drafts, he was the first QB taken, as well given his chance to start early.

There is an old saying though. Don’t own players from bad fantasy teams. The Falcons were supposed to be a mess again this season. Apparently someone did not tell Ryan that when he was given the starting job.

He was called the most “NFL Ready QB” in the draft. We hear this every season, right? Ryan scored his best game of the season in Week 10 against the Saints, posting two TD’s and 248 yards. The return against the Saints in Week 14 was even better and could have made a decent playoff start.

Outlook: The Falcons are not nearly as bad as we suspected in the beginning of the season. The Matt Ryan to Roddy White hookup looks to be a scary pair for years to come.

Worth a mention

Brian Brohm, Packers: There were question marks as to how Aaron Rodgers would pan out in Green Bay. Enough that they took Brohm in the second round. Turns out that Rodgers is doing okay for himself and not as injury prone as suspected. Brohm is a stash away, unless you can actually move him to the Aaron Rodgers owner.

Chad Henne, Dolphins: It appeared at one time that Henne may be the Rookie QB that had the best chance to start the season. Then Chad Pennington came to town. He totaled 67 yards on the season. There is no telling the future of Chad Henne in fantasy football. Chad Pennington had his most productive year in some time and appears a good fit with the offense.

Running Back

The Running Back position. The grand Poo-Bah of fantasy football positions. The most sought after players in the Dynasty draft. There always seems to be a Running Back or two that have a significant fantasy impact in their rookie season. In 2008, this was certainly the case with three finishing in the Top 10!

Matt Forte, Bears
Position Rank: 1st, 220 pts

That’s right, kids. A Chicago Bears Running back is the top fantasy football Running Back for 2008. To top it off, he is a rookie! Forte had some fans coming into the season but nobody seriously expected Forte to lead the rookie runners, let alone the running back position. Once Cedric Benson was booted out of Chicago, the job became Forte’s, hands down. He did not disappoint.

In many fantasy football dynasty drafts, Forte was at the highest the fifth running back taken. One thing he had going for him that some of the bigger names didn’t was the outright starting job.

This important piece often gets lost behind the flashy name. Top game of the season came in Week 12 against the Rams. Two rushing TD’s on 132 yards. He added on a coupe of receptions as well.

Outlook: The Bears still want to improve their Offensive Line. Every step they take in that direction will help Forte. Let’s hope he does not go the way of Anthony Thomas…

Steve Slaton, Texans
Position Rank: 8th, 186 pts

They said he was too small. The Houston backfield had become as crowded as one you may find in Denver, with nobody jumping out. As the season went on the ball found it’s way more and more into the hands of Steve Slaton.

In Weeks Three, Four, and Five, owners who were not afraid of Slaton’s size or the fact he was a Texan were rewarded with drafting him. Those three solid weeks erased many doubts.

Slaton was one of those names we heard in the fantasy preseason but many just dismissed. A late-round pick in many Dynasty drafts, Slaton is a gem. His season was peppered with a few inconsistent games but considering there was not much expected of him, we can let this slide.

His best game of the season came in Week 13 against the Jaguars. Two rushing TD’s on 130 yards with two receptions and 52 yards thrown in.

Outlook: We have heard how Houston is going to become kind of a Denver South with Coach Kubiak. Will Slaton get lost in the whoever has the hot hand strategy?

Chris Johnson, Titans
Position Rank, 10th, 182 pts

When Chris Johnson’s name was going around NFL Draft circles last season, there were people thinking, “Yeah, he is fast, but…” The Titans thought more of him taking him in the first round. His fantasy football stock was still uncertain. LenDale White appeared to be set to carry the load for the throwing impaired Titans.

It didn’t take long for Johnson to show his fantasy value. Week One against the Jags he almost got to 100 yards and had a receiving TD. There were inconsistent games sprinkled in over the season but something that you knew starting Johnson, just as his real team knew, was that at any time you could have a bust out score.

Whoever took this guy in Dynasty drafts got a treat!

Outlook: Johnson is currently riding a two game 100+ yards game streak with three TD’s in those games. Sharing the load and getting the carries that count have Johnson missing that “wall” that rookie runners often hit late in the season. Johnson should be even more valuable next season.

Should Mention

Kevin Smith, Lions: Around the time of fantasy football Dynasty drafts Kevin Smith was one of the running backs that was being said to be a certain starter. This elevated his draft stock…too much.

Nothing against the runner himself bu he is on the Detroit Lions, something that many owners glossed over when they were thinking of certain playing time.

Only one 100-yard game. He only got 20+ carries twice up until Week 13. Any NFL team can make a turn around. Will the Lions ever do that? It appears right now that we can expect pretty much what we got from Kevin Jones in Detroit.

Tim Hightower, Cardinals: Hightower is one of those late round backs that likely went undrafted outside of deep Dynasty/Keeper leagues. He lands as a top 25 fantasy back but his production was not as big as the hype.

Maybe more of the hype came because most people had not heard of him. Regardless, the interest here is whether or not the Cardinals think he can be the successor to Edge James or if he will backup next years pick.

Jonathan Stewart, Panthers: Stewart was taken over Darren McFadden in some Dynasty drafts before the season. He was touted as the savior of the Panthers run offense.

Really he only saved the legs of DeAngelo Williams when he needed rest. Stewart had about as many poor games as good games, the model of inconsistency. He should get his day but it may not be until Williams is injured.

Peyton Hillis, Broncos: HIllis has to be mentioned here for his strong finish. He is blessed and cursed at the same time for being a Denver Bronco. Blessed because Bronco runners seem to get a chance they normally wouldn’t...cursed because Bronco runners have to give way to the next guy.

Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers: He never really got the wheels spinning. When he was finally going to get his chance with Willie Parker out, he himself was injured and lost for the season. This is a guy that should bounce back for you.

Darren McFadden, Raiders: We have to mention McFadden because of his high fantasy draft stock last season. The next Adrian Peterson he wasn’t. He had a nagging toe all season but had something worse…a Raiders uniform.

Felix Jones, Cowboys: Jones was looking like the real deal at the start of the season until he was injured. Although not consistent, he had a knack for big plays. You would not have seen enough out of him to start him, except maybe when Barber was out against the Steelers in Week 14, but we have seen enough that he is worth a Dynasty roster spot.

Wide Receiver

Like in the NFL you can never really expect too much out of the Wide Receiver position in their rookie season. Sometimes there are one or two that make an exception. This season there were a couple fast starts but then slid back into the norm. Devin Thomas, James Hardy, Limas Sweed…look for some of those missing names and some others from the 2008 NFL Draft to pop up next season.

Eddie Royal, Broncos
Position Rank #17, 140 pts

Royal busted out of the gates on the 2008 season against the Raiders with 146 yards and a TD on nine receptions, and another nine yards rushing. He instantly became the rookie wonder at Wide Receiver.

Although he did have some good games over the course of the season he was inconsistent. Even inconsistency is more than we can ask for a rookie WR sometimes.

Outlook: Eddie Royal fit right in from the start while Brandon Marshal was out to start the season. You can expect him to be even better next year, of course. If you were lucky enough to grab Royal in your Dynasty draft last year while all the pretty names went off the board before him, good for you.

DeSean Jackson, Eagles
Position Rank #20, 124 pts

Jackson started his rookie campaign with two straight 100+ yard games, instantly taking him off rookie status in the eyes of many fantasy owners who drafted him. While not starter material, Jackson put up serviceable numbers that, while lacking the huge games, were more consistent than Eddie Royal. Only two times up to Week 13 did he drop below eight points.

Outlook: There is a QB situation to watch for here but Jackson should only improve. If your league rewards Special Teams points to the player you are well aware of what you have in this WR. Keep an eye on what happens with Donovan McNabb in the offseason.

Should Mention

Donny Avery, Rams: Avery was the guy in the draft that sent people looking at each other confused when he was drafted so high. Being drafted by the Rams some fantasy owners felt compelled to take him a little earlier, too. We all know how the Rams offense worked this season.

He had one breakout game against the Patriots where he caught six balls for 163 yards and a TD. Avery’s progress will move along with the Rams offense. If you have him, watch and see what the Rams do in the offseason, starting at Head Coach.

Tight End

Dustin Keller, Jets
Position Rank #8, 104 pts

It was not too long ago when the Jets gave up a first rounder for a TE. That made some people scratch their heads when Keller was taken late in the first round. Turns out he was a decent grab.

He was also a decent grab for Dynasty owners that snagged him up. The playoff run from week 10-13 he was solid, even entering a game with 100+ and a TD.

Outlook: As the TE position gets older and there is some real separation between the big time TE’s and the rest, Keller should be solid and improve, giving owners who drafted him a built in TE stud going into next season.

John Carlson, Seahawks
Position Rank #10, 102 pts

Wow, two rookie TE’s making the Top 10 in TE scoring. Since week six Carlson has been putting up numbers for those who drafted him, despite troubles at QB. His numbers are growing now in the fantasy playoffs, leaving us to wonder what it will be like if it carries into next season.

Outlook: You can certainly look for Carlson to improve as soon as the QB position in Seattle is back on track. He should be a solid target for years to come.

***To keep up on the rookies for your next Fantasy Football Dynasty Draft, bookmark The NFL Draft Hub and visit often!

Bedpan Fantasy Football Injuries Of Note Week 14

Lee Johnson — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 01:04:41 -0500

Bedpan Fantasy Football Injuries of Note | Week 14

So it’s wildcard weekend in many fantasy football leagues…or you could be wrapping up your season. Either way you need to be on top of which players are going to be sucking it up and playing or riding the pine. Let’s take a look at this weeks fantasy football injuries of note…

Quarterback:

Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers: He’ll play, nothing to see here, move along…

Trent Edwards, Bills: Edwards would love to play this weekend but it isn’t going to happen. The ball will be tossed over to J.P. Losman.

Matt Schaub, Texans: Schaub is back under center against the Packers. Andre Johnson owners rejoice.

Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks: The return was short lived. He will likely be out this week. Hasselbeck is one of the top QB’s in fantasy in December the last few years.

Running Back:

Marion Barber, Cowboys: This is sad, sad, news for guys that rode Barber into the fantasy playoffs (me in two leagues). It looks like he is a game time decision and is playing the Steelers anyway. You may not see the Cowboys risk him in a game they might not think they can run in anyway. If you have other options, use them.

Brian Westbrook, Eagles: He is listed as questionable. You know the routine. Watch him up until game time because if he is playing you can’t bench him, even against the Giants.

Steven Jackson, Rams: He is on the injury report again with his thigh but is a must play this weekend. He will be out there against the Cards.

Clinton Portis, Redskins: Portis should be playing despite his neck injury. This is a bad matchup that you have likely been watching on the schedule. Nobody wants to face the Ravens D.

Willie Parker, Steelers: Parker is practicing and looks certain to be going up against the Cowboys.

Reggie Bush, Saints: He missed out on practice Friday but there is not much question that he will play against the Falcons. If you have him, use him. Remember, before this guy went out he was leading RB’s in PPR leagues.

Marshawn Lynch, Bills: Lynch should not miss the game in Toronto with the Dolphins. He is listed as probable.

Ryan Grant, Packers: He is listed as probable but is more than likely going to be out there. He has however lost his locker room thumb wrestling championship due to his injury.

Willis McGahee, Ravens: Willis should be a go against the Redskins but his inconsistent playing time should leave you more worried.

Kevin Smith, Lions: Will play. But if he is the guy you are depending on you are not likely playing in your playoffs.

Selvin Young, Broncos: It’s time for Young to return to the field but as always seems to happen, an unlikely runner has taken the job in Denver. Selvin will be behind Peyton Hillis.

Wide Receiver:

Anquan Boldin, Cardinals: His back hurts,. better bench him. NO STOP…That was a joke! Start him, start him, START HIM!

T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Bengals: No need to worry, Housh is listed as probable and will play. Amazing this guy still matters so much without Palmer all this time. Imagine if Palmer had been going.

Plaxico Burress, Giants: Something about his leg? Will be out for a while, might want to hang him up for the season.

Laveranues Coles, Jets: Big surprise to find him here, huh? He is more than likely to play. Keep an eye on him as he rarely misses a game despite his time spent on the injury report.

Roy Williams, Cowboys: The WR one. His foot is injured and he is listed as probable. Not a safe start anyway considering he is not lighting it up…they have another guy that requires more targets, and most of all, they are playing the scary Steelers D!

Tight End:

Kellen Winslow, Browns: Warrior’s ankle sprain may leave you sprained in the playoffs. Go get someone NOW if you don’t have a decent backup TE. Those matchups do matter when the points are totalled!

NFL Power Rankings Updated and Other NFL Jabber

Lee Johnson — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 14:04:00 -0500

The race is on for the NFL Playoffs! Well, some teams are still in the race but don’t even act as if they know. Whodathunk the Patriots and Dolphins would be fighting with each other to get a wildcard? Let’s dive into some NFL Jabber and check out this weeks Power Rankings…

You can get a look at this week's Football Jabber NFL Power Rankings by CLICKING THESE BIG HIGHLIGHTED WORDS HERE. Give you a hint, Lions are last.

Speaking of the Lions and them being last in the NFL…that means that they are on their way to possibly having the first pick in the 2009 NFL Draft! Yes, you heard it here first kids.

What will the Lions do? Go WR, you say? Come on, that joke is a bit worn out, although Michael Crabtree of Texas Tech is looking good. Andre Smith from Alabama on the offensive line maybe? You are supposed to use this spot to be sure you have a franchise QB, how about a Matthew Stafford out of Georgia?

Yes it is early to talk NFL Draft, but I would like to introduce you to Football Jabber’s NFL DRAFT HUB. An interactive collection of NFL Draft News, 2009 NFL Mock Drafts, Draft Prospect news and highlight videos. Submit, vote, or jut do your NFL Draft Research.

So did you hear the Star Cap Caper is going to be drawn out a little more? A Judge in Minnesota wants more time to take a look at this, so the accused get to play this week. On NFL Live, they brought up a good question…what if they get to play now and then have to sit in the playoffs (not the Saints, of course). Would it be better to sit now or fight THE MAN.

So…off the top of your head who would you say are the leaders in passer rating on Play Action passes? Peyton Manning is pretty good, right? Well, I’m sure he’ll come back around. How about that Favre guy? That was always one of his strong points. Nope. How about that guy that took his place in Green Bay? You're getting warmer…

According to Stats, an independent research firm, Aaron Rodgers has completed 37 of his 63 play-action passes this season for 660 yards, five touchdowns and one interception. That’s less than one-sixth of Rodgers’ attempts and a modest completion percentage of 58.7 percent—lower than his overall percentage of 63.6—but his 114.5 passer rating on play-action throws ranks second behind only Buffalo quarterback Trent Edwards’ 129.1.

The teams of the NFC South are 22-2 this season at home.

Bucs Coach Jon Gruden had been nicknamed after that misunderstood doll in the Child’s Play movies, Chucky. Chucky does not want to be watching scary highlight films after this weekend…

“That guy Steve Smith, he’s a nightmare, man,” Gruden said on a conference call with reporters Thursday. “He’s like Freddy Krueger to me. He scares the (heck) out of me.”

Jim Haslett and Steven Jackson are back to making beautiful L’s together for the Rams.

If you are getting all giddy over the chance of a Dolphins postseason, you may like this photo collection from Playoffs and Super Bowls in the Dolphins past…

Have you been asking yourself if the Redskins and Ravens game is really a rivalry? You are not alone…

If you are anywhere near Green Bay and want to earn approximately $32, they could use some help…

With snow expected Friday night, the Green Bay Packers put out a call for volunteer shovelers to turn out Saturday morning and help clear the stands at Lambeau Field in preparation for Sunday’s game with Houston…

Discuss all this good stuff at the New Sports Jabber Forums—>