Tuesday, July 29, 2014

FFToolbox - Bills WR T.J. Graham may not make final cut plus 36 more

FFToolbox - Bills WR T.J. Graham may not make final cut plus 36 more

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Bills WR T.J. Graham may not make final cut

Posted: 29 Jul 2014 01:00 AM PDT

ESPN Buffalo is reporting WR T.J Graham is having a rough camp and may not make the final 53-man roster. Mike Rodak is reporting Graham "hasn't shown to be a more reliable pass-catcher, one of his bigger problems in his first two seasons in Buffalo. He had two more drops Monday on well-targeted passes." Rookie Sammy Watkins and veteran Mike Williams were brought in during the offseason causing Graham to be pushed down the depth chart after starting games for the Bills last season, putting up a 23/361/2 line. He will be in a competition with Chris Hogan for WR5 duties in Buffalo. FANTASY ANALYSIS: Graham holds very little fantasy value at this point, even in dynasty leagues. He doesn't have decent hands and will be behind the aforementioned wide outs as well as WRs Robert Woods and Marquise Goodwin. He is a safe drop to find a better player to fill your bench roster spot.

Raiders RB/FB Marcel Reece has lost weight, in shape for camp

Posted: 29 Jul 2014 12:12 AM PDT

ESPN Oakland beat writer Paul Gutierrez reports quot;Marcel Reece's physical transformation is very noticeable" noting that Reece was up to 255 pounds in the offseason and is now down to 238 pounds in camp. Gutierrez also says he should be more involved in the pass game now that he is a lighter and fitter. Reece had 46 attempts, rushing for 218 yards and 2TD's last year and is expected to take on more of a full back role this season. FANTASY ANALYSIS: Reece holds very little fantasy value but two things are worth noting: If he's getting passes this year, it means less passes for primary Raider RBs Darren McFadden and Maurice Jones-Drew. Last year, while it was wildly expected that Latavius Murray had a solid hold on backup duties, it was actually Reece who saw all carries when injury struck both McFadden and Rashad Jennings. The Raiders also signed RB Kory Sheets who played in the CFL last year and will be battling for a roster spot in camp.

Texans WR Andre Johnson, RB Arian Foster nursing hamstring injuries

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 11:27 PM PDT

Here's something to really pay attention to: The Texans have been in camp for three days, and wide receiver Andre Johnson and running back Arian Foster are already hurt. Specifically, both have hamstring injuries. Johnson injured his right hamstring while diving for a pass during Monday's practice. Foster hasn't practiced since leaving Sunday's session early. Johnson said his hamstring is just quot;a little tight" and is not worried about it. Neither is head coach Bill O'Brien, who referred to the injuries as minor. "Those guys have played a lot of football," O'Brien said. "We'll make sure we do a good job of managing them through the season." FANTASY ANALYSIS: However, both players have suffered well-publicized hamstring injuries in the past few years that have forced them to miss multiple games. Foster has had a hamstring injury in each season since 2011, and Johnson may have been more susceptible to such a soft-tissue injury after holding out of OTAs and minicamp. He's also 33 years old, so, you know, age. We'll pass along an update when it warrants. Draft these two per usual for now.

Seahawks WR Percy Harvin healthy, says he feels 'immensely good'

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 10:12 PM PDT

Seahawks wide receiver Percy Harvin said Friday that's it's been a while since he has been fully healthy. He certainly wasn't at this time last year. In July 2013, Harvin was days away from undergoing hip surgery that would cost him nearly all season. This year, Harvin is feeling quot;immensely good," and you get the sense that he is almost giddy about the upcoming season. "I don't know if any football player can say they're fully healthy playing football, but this is the best I've felt in a long, long time," Harvin said. "I'm just going to keep building, building, building and I'm looking forward to the season." FANTASY ANALYSIS: Prior to the hip problems, Harvin was being drafted as a low-end WR1. Now, after a lost year and his second consecutive year with a major injury, Harvin is closer to the low-end WR2 range. The Seahawks' ultra-conservative offense is another mark against him in fantasy. There's no denying Harvin's elite speed and quickness in the open field. You just wonder if he's in an offense that can fully exploit his talents. And, yes, if he can make it through 16 games. Harvin is a risk/reward pick to say the least.

Bengals WR Mohamed Sanu is having a 'monster camp'

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 09:43 PM PDT

With Marvin Jones on the PUP list with a hamstring injury, Bengals wide receiver Mohamed Sanu has taken full advantage of more snaps with the first-team offense. According to Geoff Hobson of the team's official website, Sanu is quot;catching everything" and having a "monster camp." Hobson indicates that the coaches are using Sanu everywhere on the field and often. Sanu is "going to do everything but park cars," Hobson wrote Monday. FANTASY ANALYSIS: Sanu caught 47 passes for 455 yards and two touchdowns. He finished third on the team in targets with 78, but six players in this offense saw at least 59. And that was a season in which where Andy Dalton threw 586 passes, eighth-most in the league. Dalton's attempts are going to come way down this season -- perhaps by as much as 30 percent. Sanu's targets, catches, and yards will come with them. He is the No. 3 WR and perhaps the fourth or fifth option in Cincinnati. Unless Jones is out for an extended period, Sanu has microscopic fantasy value. This is another example of why you shouldn't buy into all of these rosy training camp stories that flood the football news wires during the summer hook, line, and sinker.

Broncos WR Emmanuel Sanders motivated

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 09:17 PM PDT

On the first day of camp Emmanuel Sanders dropped a single pass. Sanders responded to the drop with, quot;My Grandma could have caught that pass." This moment motivated Sanders to go into the lab and closely watch the likes of Demaryius Thomas, Wes Welker and former Bronco receiver Eric Decker. Since the drop, Sanders has shown improvement and has caught tightly defended passes and had an amazing one-handed TD catch during Sunday's practice. The Bronco receiver is truly embracing his role as a student of the game and has shown great potential under Peyton Manning. FANTASY ANALYSIS: Sanders is showing that he is working hard to improve himself as a player. The fifth year receiver gained 740 yards and six touchdowns last season, a statistical showing that can easily be repeated this year. If Sanders keeps on improving, he can prove to be a valuable pickup. With an ADP of 64 Sanders' potential in the Broncos offense is not a secret. I can see Sanders as a worthy low-end WR2 or high-end WR3 this season solely based on his potential within the Broncos offense.

Patriots QB Tom Brady wants team to perform like San Antonio Spurs

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 08:48 PM PDT

Pat Kirwan met with a few Patriots players post-practice and they had a few interesting things to say. The most interesting comment was from veteran Tom Brady in which he said he wants the team to perform like the NBA champion San Antonio Spurs. Brady simply wants everyone to perform and deliver when it's their turn. Monday's practice exuded a quiet confidence among the players said Kirwan. He also notes that the passing game appears to be improved with the addition of Brandon LaFell. Belicheck had no doubts and said the passing game is ahead of where it was last year. FANTASY ANALYSIS: From a fantasy perspective, the Patriots were a dark hole last year. The only top performers were Julian Edelman and maybe Tom Brady. Brady's touchdown numbers declined to the lowest they've been since the 2006 season with 25. This may be a bounce back year for Brady. With a semi-healthy Rob Gronkowski and a healthy set of receivers, Brady can possibly throw for 30+ touchdowns this season. Many people are down on Brady because of last year's performance and you may be able to snatch him up in the later rounds with an ADP of 70. I easily foresee a finish in the top five for Brady.

Giants WR Odell Beckham to miss at least another week due to hamstring injury

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 08:19 PM PDT

Giants head coach Tom Coughlin is already irked that rookie wide receiver Odell Bekcham hasn't been able to practice since Tuesday because of a balky hamstring. In that case, no one should tell him this: Beckham won't practice for at least another week. Beckham underwent some tests on his hamstring Monday. The good news is the tests came back negative, but according to Jordan Raanan and Conor Orr of NJ.com, Beckham is expected to be sidelined for at least another week. FANTASY ANALYSIS: A bunch of players in camp are already sore, but this is more concerning because Beckham's hamstring woes go back to spring practice. A player becomes more susceptible to hamstring problems each time he injures the muscle (look at Miles Austin). While his dynasty stock remains robust, exercise caution in re-draft leagues. Beckham was understandably listed as a second-team WR when the team released its first official depth chart of the season on Monday. His absence creates more space for Jerrel Jernigan to shine.

Cowboys TE Gavin Escobar lining up at wideout

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 08:12 PM PDT

Gavin Escobar is a second year tight end that has been turning some heads at Cowboys' practice. As a 6'6quot; tight end, he's been lining up as a wideout. In an attempt to get the sophomore tight end more involved in the offense, the Cowboys are doing everything possible. In 2013 Escobar only had nine receptions, but totaled 134 yards and two touchdowns. Escobar is still behind veteran Jason Witten, but the pass-happy Cowboys will be involving Escobar in unconventional ways, possibly opening him up for some big plays. FANTASY ANALYSIS: It's already a fact; the Cowboys will be throwing the ball a lot. There are many mouths to feed on the Cowboy offense, but only two players are listed as 6'6" and have shown separation and catching ability. If the Cowboys truly try to involve Escobar, he is easily a TE2 with upside. His height is the outlying difference when he is matched up with much smaller corners as a wideout. He has also shown an ability to go up and catch the ball. If you're looking for a young tight end with tons of potential, look no further.

Raiders WR Rod Streater out due to concussion

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 07:56 PM PDT

The Raiders' receiving corps is quite shorthanded right now. The most notable absence is Rod Streater, who suffered a concussion during Sunday's practice. Wideouts Greg Little and Juron Criner are being bothered by hamstring injuries as well. FANTASY ANALYSIS: Obviously, there's no timetable for Streater's return. Players recover from concussions at their own, unpredictable rate. There's little fantasy value here. Streater may be a PPR option for those in 16-team leagues, but Little and Criner can be ignored. James Jones is the No. 1 WR by the East Bay, and he's being drafted as a WR5. That's what happens when Matt Schaub and rookie Derek Carr are your top two quarterbacks.

Giants list TE Larry Donnell as starter

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 07:48 PM PDT

This Sunday night the Bills and Giants will be facing each other in a head-to-head matchup. Both teams are required to release a roster and this raises some interesting questions at the tight end position for the Giants. Larry Donnell, the second year tight end out of Grambling state, only caught three balls last year. The sophomore tight end is unproven in the NFL and came onto the team as an undrafted rookie in 2013. FANTASY ANALYSIS: The Giants have come out saying they want Eli Manning to complete 70 percent of his passes this season, a bold mark to reach. They are also looking to stretch the defense with a fast-paced offense, keeping the defense on their heels. One thing is for sure, if the Giants are catering towards completions, Larry Donnell must the best catching tight end on the roster. Last year he was targeted only three times, but caught all three passes. I'm not saying he's going to be the next Jimmy Graham, but he has potential being only in the league for one full year. I suggest watching him closely this Sunday night and then make your judgments. In a pass-happy offense he could be catching a few touchdowns from Eli this season.

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Posted: 28 Jul 2014 07:46 PM PDT

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Jets RB Chris Johnson lining up at WR in camp

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 07:42 PM PDT

The New York Post, a publication that never passes up an opportunity for a cheeky headline, put it perfectly: quot;CJ-WR?" That was atop Brian Costello's article about Johnson's first camp practice as a Jet on Thursday. Costello wrote that the most interesting aspect of Johnson's day was how often the Jets positioned him as a wide receiver. "They put him in motion and flexed him out as a wide receiver quite a few times, perhaps showing one of their plans for him," Costello said of Johnson. Wide receiver David Nelson can definitely see the positives that come with moving Johnson to the perimeter and how much more difficult it makes the defense's task. "When you see Chris Johnson in the flat, they're going to have to be mindful of that," Nelson said. "They're going to have to jump to that. When they do that, it opens up a lot of spaces and a lot of spots in the middle of the field. If they don't, he's going to take it to the house. It opens up a whole different dimension for us, especially in the passing game." FANTASY ANALYSIS: Johnson said he felt no pain in the knee that was scoped during the offseason. Credit to the Jets for doing this with him. We always heard about how the Titans wanted to get him more involved as a receiver, but it never really happened as frequently as most imagined. Hopefully the Jets aren't just leading us on. Swinging the ball out to Johnson will somewhat make up for the carries he's bound to lose to Chris Ivory. Bilal Powell will also be involved, no matter what Johnson thinks. Johnson may not have 4.24 speed these days, but he would still be a nightmare for linebackers to cover. And quarterback Geno Smith would love to have him as a safety valve. The timeshare means CJ?K is a low-end RB2 in standard leagues. Maybe the timeshare will also make him a bit of a bargain in PPRs.

Redskins HC: Designed runs for QB Robert Griffin III might be 'few and far between'

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 07:42 PM PDT

Redskins head coach Jay Gruden doesn't want to restrain his mobile quarterback, Robert Griffin III. If he needs to run, Gruden wants him to do so. But Gruden has made it clear that most of the plays will call for Griffin to do something other than run first. Gruden said on quot;NFL AM" last week that designed runs for Griffin might be "few and far between" this season. However, if the play breaks down, Gruden knows that Griffin will be off. "As far as [Griffin] running in the pocket, quarterbacks make those decisions, not me," Gruden said. "On game day, it's hard for me to tell them, 'Stay in the pocket -- don't scramble!' But we'll have some designed plays where we get him outside, let him use his legs. Obviously, it would be stupid not to." FANTASY ANALYSIS: This is nothing new -- literally, this story is four days old. But everyone understands that Jay Gruden isn't a Shanahan; he's not going to dial up as many zone-read plays. Gruden wants to get the ball down the field, and he wants to utilize Griffin's arm and accuracy more than anything else. Griffin won't be a statue. He just won't run quite as often as in 2012. At least that will lower his chances for injury. Despite the expected dip in rushing yards, Griffin is a solid pick in the sixth or seventh round. He isn't just a scrambling quarterback. He is a solid passer -- he completed almost 66 percent of his throws as a rookie. With DeSean Jackson, Pierre Garcon, Jordan Reed, and Andre Roberts running routes for him, Griffin should have a lot of fun in this offense as long as his offensive linemen give him some time. And if they don't, he can always run.

Bills RB Bryce Brown listed as fourth option

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 07:17 PM PDT

Earlier today the Buffalo Bills released their first official depth chart of training camp and Bryce Brown is set as the fourth string running back. This depth chart is of course not final, but it gives us a preview of what is to come. The Bills traded for the third year running back in the offseason. As an Eagle, Bryce Brown filled in for LeSean McCoy and set an Eagles rookie record with 178 rushing yards in a game in his first NFL start. FANTASY ANALYSIS: After trading for Brown in the offseason, many assumed he would play a contributing role in the Bills offense. That may still be the case. Fred Jackson is not getting any younger and C.J. Spiller is in the last year of his contract. In dynasty leagues, Bryce Brown is surely a very sneaky pickup for next year. However, he may see a very small amount of touches this season and has very little fantasy value unless Spiller and Jackson suffer from the injury bug.

Saints QB Drew Brees expresses more praise of rookie WR Brandin Cooks

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 07:04 PM PDT

It seems like everyone is falling in love with wide receiver Brandin Cooks at Saints camp. Especially and perhaps most importantly quarterback Drew Brees, who hasn't been shy in setting the expectations high for Cooks in his first season. Brees said this about Cooks on Friday: quot;Here's a guy who's obviously extremely talented," Brees said. "But more so than that, very intelligent. You get this feeling that he wants to be great, he loves football, he wants to learn. Every time he comes up to me, it's eyes wide. "He absorbs [information] very quickly and goes out and applies it. I'd say that's pretty rare for a young guy. Typically their head is spinning for a little while. Doesn't seem like anything is too big for him." FANTASY ANALYSIS: When you start to think about the possibilities for this kid in the Saints' offense, your mind kind of runs wild. However, we shouldn't lose sight that, in the face of all of these compliments, Cooks is a rookie who will have growing pains in this league like basically every player before him. He should be drafted as a WR4 even though WR3 numbers at the season's end are definitely conceivable.

Redskins QB Robert Griffin III feels the team is improving

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 07:02 PM PDT

During a post-practice interview Robert Griffin III said, quot;When you start off Day 1, by Day 5, you need to be a better football team, and I think that's happening. It's not just offense, but defense, special teams. I think we're coming together, and that's what you want to see throughout camp." If last year is any testament, the Redskins have a lot of room for improvement and some of it starts with the quarterback. Offensive coordinator Sean McVay has said, "I think he's done a really good job on working on his mechanics, his footwork and his delivery." The Redskins are coming off a 3-13 season and can only move upward. FANTASY ANALYSIS: Last year the whole Redskin offense was out of whack. There were quarters in which the offense halted and the defense gave up a considerable amount of points. There was no flow. With the statements that are coming out of camp, it sounds like they may have found their flow. Griffin hasn't hit his prime yet and with the addition of Desean Jackson, I can really see the whole offense performing well. This is a good sign for to-be owners of any plays on the Redskin offense.

Bengals QB Andy Dalton is improving on his decision making

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 06:09 PM PDT

Andy Dalton, the fourth year quarterback for the Bengals has always struggled with decision making. In the 2013 season, Dalton threw 20 interceptions, a career high. During the Bengals Monday afternoon practice, he brought joy to his offensive coordinator, Hue Jackson. On a goal-line exercise, Dalton rolled out of the pocket to the right and threw the football deep out of the right corner of the end zone. His offensive coordinator shouted to Dalton, quot;Good, Andy. Good Job." FANTASY ANALYSIS: Andy Dalton has one the league's most dangerous weapons, A.J. Green. The problem is getting the ball to him. Out of the quarterback's 20 interceptions, most of them are due to carelessly lobbing it to Green. Although it may be a good tactic for the Lions, Dalton has always needed to learn how to do it in a smart way. With a current ADP of 131, Dalton is a solid choice very late in the draft. You are guaranteed touchdowns, and if he becomes better with his decision making, less interceptions.

Scoutlook: The Browns Without WR Josh Gordon (PREMIUM PREVIEW)

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 05:26 PM PDT

A free preview of a Scoutlook, an article which focuses its attention on one player or team situation to find the Fantasy gold.

LeSean McCoy, other Eagles RBs are 'dominating in the passing game'

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 05:16 PM PDT

Philly.com's Jimmy Kempski had the 411 from Eagles camp on Sunday: quot;Eagles running backs are dominating in the passing game in camp so far. Nobody can cover them, and they're racking up an absurd number of receptions. The question then becomes, are they dominating because they're just really good, or because the Eagles' linebackers don't have the ability to stick with them? It's probably a combination of both." Eagles running backs are dominating in the passing game in camp so far. Nobody can cover them, and they're racking up an absurd number of receptions. The question then becomes, are they dominating because they're just really good, or because the Eagles' linebackers don't have the ability to stick with them? It's probably a combination of both Read more at http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/sports/eagles/Eagles-training-camp-practice-notes-July-27-Eagles-running-backs-win-the-day.html#TZEfQXZe0JmQ5sIa.99 FANTASY ANALYSIS: Darren Sproles is one of the league's best receivers at running back. LeSean McCoy is no slouch himself, and Chris Polk showed last year that he can contribute in that area if needed. Sproles is the odds-on favorite to see the most targets out of this backfield since 55 percent of his touches since 2010 have come as a receiver. That might lead to fewer catches for McCoy, but he should top at least 40 or so. You know he is one of the best players in the fantasy game. Although the Eagles are stressing that Sproles is more than just a pass-catcher, he is an RB3 or flex in PPR leagues. Polk is the more natural handcuff to McCoy.

NASCAR Picks for Pocono

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 05:02 PM PDT

Top 30 NASCAR Sprint Cup driver rankings for GoBowling.com 400: 1. Brad Keselowski, 2. Jimmie Johnson, 3. Dale Earnhardt, Jr., 4. Jeff Gordon, 5. Denny Hamlin, 6. Tony Stewart, 7. Kevin Harvick, ...

Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger: My arm is stronger than ever

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 04:52 PM PDT

Heavily used arms don't usually get stronger when they are attached to bodies for 30 years or more. If that was the case, you would see all MLB pitchers throwing harder than they did in their 20s. Some of them have, but the reason behind it is ... well, don't worry about that. The point is that Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is 32 years old, but his arm is not feeling his age. quot;My arm is stronger than it's been in my career, I believe," Roethlisberger said Saturday. "Even in [spring] practices and minicamp, the receivers said, 'Ben, that ball is getting to us a lot quicker, with a lot more spin on it, it feels real good.' That should translate into better play." Roethlisberger credits his increased strength and decreased waist line to an extensive offseason grind, including work with a personal trainer and nutritionist for the first time in his career. FANTASY ANALYSIS: Roethlisberger is a solid QB2, and the increased arm strength is nice to hear. He has a chance to improve upon his 2013 numbers, some of the best in his career, in the Steelers' no-huddle offense, but he must stay healthy. He played a full schedule last year but has been consistently nicked up throughout his 10 NFL seasons.

RB Adrian Peterson says Vikings' offense won't be as predictable

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 04:15 PM PDT

Certainly, Adrian Peterson has no problem with carrying the rock whenever his name is called. He's done it about 300 times for seven years, even when defenses knew full well what was coming. However, with playmakers such as Cordarrelle Patterson and Greg Jennings on the outside and with aggressive play-caller Norv Turner designing things, Peterson thinks the 2014 Vikings will be very difficult to defend. quot;Let's call it what it is: I thought in the past, we've been predictable," Peterson told reporters Monday. "I'm sure you guys wrote stories about us being predictable the past seven years. You won't be able to write that story this year. That's pretty much all I'm saying. You won't be able to do that, because this offense is so versatile." FANTASY ANALYSIS: The Vikings will still be a run-first offense, but it's clear they have a lot more talent on that side of the ball than in years past. With Patterson, Jennings, tight end Kyle Rudolph, defenses can't really sell out to stop Peterson. However, quarterback competency will play a big role in that, so the hope is Matt Cassel and/or Teddy Bridgewater can perform well enough to stop defenses from putting eight and nine men in the box, all of them focused on the former MVP. Gone are the days when the Vikings had to give a lot of starts to the likes of Bernard Berrian, Michael Jenkins, Jerome Simpson, or Visanthe Shiancoe. Peterson has seen plenty of those days and is excited to move on.

Patriots rookie RB James White 'becoming one of camp's top phenoms'

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 03:48 PM PDT

Zuri Berry of Boston.com wrote Monday that running back James White quot;is quickly becoming one of the camp's top phenoms and is the team's leading rookie." White received the most touches of any back during Sunday's 11-on-11 drills, finishing one ahead of Stevan Ridley. Berry added that White has "exceptional skills and moves with the confidence of a veteran." The team is giving him "an abundance of reps" ahead of other rookies and veteran Brandon Bolden to see what White can and can't do. FANTASY ANALYSIS: White's receiving skills gets him compared to Shane Vereen often, but Berry thinks White runs more like Ridley, saying that they move similarly and run with a measure of determination. White is already expected to see a good chunk of snaps early on, but more could be coming if he keeps this up. If Vereen can't stay healthy or if Ridley comes down with another case of fumblitis, White looks to be the man who will benefit most. He's worth a late-round stash in re-draft leagues.

Giants want QB Eli Manning to complete 70 percent of his passes

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 03:28 PM PDT

The Giants aren't expecting a just bounce-back year from quarterback Eli Manning. They are setting a goal for him that most NFL quarterbacks, including his brother, have never achieved: They want Manning's completion percentage to hit 70. quot;It hasn't been done very often, so that's the ultimate goal," quarterbacks coach Danny Langsdorf said Monday. "I think it's been done eight or nine times, maybe? That's an impressive statistic in the history of the league. So that's what we're gunning for, that 70 percent." FANTASY ANALYSIS: The exact count of quarterbacks who have completed 70 percent of their throws with at least 200 attempts stands at five. Drew Brees has done it twice in the past five years. Eli's career high in completion percentage is 62.9, which he set in 2010. He bombed last season at 57.5 percent, but Manning should improve in the team's new West Coast scheme. Seventy seems to be a popular number in Giants camp. They want Manning to complete 70 percent of his passes. They also want to run 70 plays per game. That speed is the biggest change coming to this offense. The coaches want the ball to come out of Manning's hand faster. They want the players to really hustle back to the huddle. They want to run more plays. It should lead to more opportunities for fantasy points for Eli and company. There's no way he reaches 70 percent, but Manning should be a cheap and profitable QB2.

Lions WR Golden Tate taken off PUP list

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 02:48 PM PDT

Lions wide receiver Golden Tate began training camp on the Physically Unable to Perform List, but as expected, he didn't stay there long. The Lions activated Tate, and he took part in his first practice with his new team Monday. Tate landed on the list after landing on his shoulder awkwardly during OTAs in May. FANTASY ANALYSIS: Tate's average draft position sits in the mid-to-late 30s among wide receivers. However, this is a very quick player who gained more than 900 yards and scored five times in the league's most conservative offense last season. Now he's in an offense that will throw it MUCH more often and is teamed with Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson. I think a season without 1,000 yards would be a disappointment for Tate. I'd love to have him as my WR3.

Panthers WR Kelvin Benjamin day to day with bone bruise

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 02:24 PM PDT

Panthers rookie wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin knocked knees with a teammate during practice Sunday and underwent an MRI. It revealed a bone bruise that isn't expected to keep him out for a long while. Head coach Ron Rivera said Monday that Benjamin's knee is stable but has some swelling. FANTASY ANALYSIS: Benjamin needs all of the practice time he can get, not only because he is a rookie, but the Panthers want him to be their go-to wide receiver this year. So, hopefully he doesn't miss too much time. Benjamin is a WR4/5 this season and could grab eight or more touchdowns thanks to his 6-foot-5-inch frame.

Buccaneers rookie TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins is 'behind a lot'

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 02:14 PM PDT

It should come as no surprise that a rookie who missed every spring workout and practice is lagging behind the rest of his teammates in training camp. That's the position in which Buccaneers tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins finds himself. The second-rounder couldn't take part in OTAs and minicamp due to an NFL rule that prohibits rookies for joining their team until their college classes let out for the summer. Now he's in camp, fully recovered from February foot surgery, and quot;behind a lot," according to head coach Lovie Smith. "He's an intelligent man, so he'll be able to [catch up]," Smith said of Seferian-Jenkins. "As much as anything, we wanted to get him healthy and he is that.'' FANTASY ANALYSIS: This season might turn into a red-shirt year of sorts for AS-J. The Buccaneers have Tim Wright and Brandon Myers around to handle the position while he soaks up the playbook and what is expected of him. Seferian-Jenkins is a huge dynasty prospect, literally. He is 6-foot-5, 260 pounds and ran a sub-4.60 40 time at a pre-draft workout. He is the future for the Bucs at tight end. But for those in re-draft leagues, know that he'll be brought along slowly.

Podcast: Draft Slot Strategy - Each pick analyzed

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 01:57 PM PDT

Special Guests: Emil Kadlec, Dr. Roto, FFMagicMan, Larry Gold and more...

Bengals RB coach on Giovani Bernard: 'We'll find a way to get the ball to him'

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 01:52 PM PDT

People are so concerned with how many touches running back Giovani Bernard is going to get this season. Some say 300. Others think he will stay near last season's total of 226 because of rookie Jeremy Hill. Running backs coach Kyle Caskey doesn't feel like there needs to be a certain number in mind. He just knows the Bengals need Bernard to get the ball a lot. quot;I don't know if it's the workload that's going to get more, it's more the type of plays that we're going to run with [Bernard] in the game," Caskey said Sunday's. "We're going to expand his portfolio of plays and find different ways to get the ball in his hands in space. You get the ball in Gio's hands in space, he's dangerous. ... 'We'll find a way to get the ball to him." FANTASY ANALYSIS: Meanwhile, BenJarvus Green-Ellis is an distant afterthought. As much as Caskey may try to keep people from predicting Bernard's usage, I doubt this will be the last time we wade into that subject before the season starts. Let's just all realize that Gio is going to be a major part of the Bengals' offense and understand that he has the ability to be a fantasy stud with 230, 250 or 300 touches. The exact number really shouldn't matter as long as he gets the consistent workload that he deserves. Bernard is a low-end RB1.

Cardinals rookie WR John Brown can't be covered

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 01:31 PM PDT

A string of praise for Cardinals wide receiver John Brown that seemingly started as soon as he was drafted as a third-rounder in May continued Monday. Cardinals general manager Steve Keim confessed that so far, Arizona's defense hasn't been able to cover the speedy Brown in camp. This comes after Brown was lauded for his performance in rookie mini-camp, and a tweet from Gil Brandt in which he said Brown can be quot;a special player." FANTASY ANALYSIS: The Cardinals' starting three at wideout is pretty much set with Larry Fitzgerald, Michael Floyd, and Ted Ginn Jr. in the slot. If Ginn got injured, a door would swing wide open for Brown to showcase his big-play skills. I expect him to make some highlight plays this season but probably not enough to be worth starting as a flex. For now, Brown should be a coveted dyansty target and worth isf a flier in re-draft leagues.

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson, 49ers RB Frank Gore unlikely to play in preseason

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 01:16 PM PDT

What does a team gain by exposing a veteran workhorse running back to punishing contact in exhibition games? If you're the VIkings or 49ers, it appears the answer is nothing. Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer told NFL.com's Ian Rapoport on Monday that he has quot;nothing to see" from Adrian Peterson in preseason games. He said Peterson may get a carry or two if he really wants them, but the team may just hold him out until September. Zimmer's statement comes a day after ESPN's Bill Williamson wrote that Frank Gore is unlikely to suit up for San Francisco's preseason action. Given the 49ers' recent injuries at running back with Kendall Hunter and LaMichael James, they don't want to risk one to their leading man. FANTASY ANALYSIS: Thus, Carlos Hyde and Matt Asiata better prepare to get a long look in August. Peterson hasn't taken a preseason carry since 2011. Gore has seen four in each of the past two years. Both have been fine for fantasy owners (Peterson has been a little more so). This is the smart, obvious move for two coaches looking to limit the amount of wear and tear on the legs of their star player. Peterson remains a top-three fantasy pick. Gore's value is a little more complicated given his age (31) and Hyde's presumed immediate impact. Gore wants to carry a heavier burden this season, but he probably won't get it. He's more of a low-end RB2.

Falcons RB Steven Jackson looks 'rejuvenated'

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 11:58 AM PDT

Jackson appears to have some of his explosiveness back early in training camp, according to ESPN's Falcons reporter Vaughn McClure. Jackson suffered from nagging injury concerns, but according to McClure, Jackson quot;still has a good year in him if he remains healthy. The 31-year old Jackson will compete with Falcons RB Devonta Freeman for touches in 2014, as he endeavors to improve on his 3.45 yards per carry average from last year. FANTASY ANALYSIS: 31 is old for an NFL running back. But Jackson showed some decent stuff in the final games of last season. He's not going to be an elite RB1 again, but it's not crazy to suggest, as McClure does, that Jackson could shoulder the brunt of the rushing load in Atlanta one more time this season. For his part, Freeman doesn't appear to be an elite workhorse NFL rusher, so even if he spells Jackson along with Falcons RB Jacquizz Rodgers, don't expect either Freeman or Rodgers to run away with the job singlehandedly. Jackson is a value at his current ADP of 36th running back.

2014 Auction Draft Bargains

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 10:09 AM PDT

A list of fantasy football players to target in auction drafts due to their cheap price tags. Profiled players include Tom Brady, Andy Dalton, Tony Romo, Joique Bell, and Frank Gore.

Starting WR-WR-RB: A Draft Strategy (PREMIUM PREVIEW)

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 08:35 AM PDT

A free preview of one of our Scout Fantasy premium articles.

Browns WR Charles Johnson turning heads at camp

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 07:40 AM PDT

Johnson has impressed members of the Browns organization with his size, speed, and knowledge of the team's offense, according to ESPN Cleveland's Tony Grossi. Johnson was signed by the Browns last October from the Packers practice squad. The team later learned that Johnson had suffered a torn ACL. Now rehabilitated, Johnson will seek to join a Cleveland WR corps spread thin by the suspension of Browns WR Josh Gordon. FANTASY ANALYSIS: Before the knee injury, the 6'2quot; Johnson showed 4.38 speed and a 39.5" vertical at his pro day. It appears he has the physical tools to succeed as an NFL receiver. He also rehabbed from his injury with likely starting Browns QB Brian Hoyer, and the two reportedly developed some chemistry working out together. Right now Johnson is somebody who should be on the very remote periphery of your draft radar, as he seeks to make a Browns roster that includes veteran WR Miles Austin and WR Nate Burleson. Johnson is currently ranked 99th among WRs by FFToolbox.com.

Jets TE Zach Sudfeld impresses at training camp

Posted: 28 Jul 2014 07:11 AM PDT

Sudfeld has been the best TE at Jets training camp thus far, according to ESPN's Rich Cimini. Sudfeld is seekeing to unseat Jets TE Jeff Cumberland, who reported late to camp and has not stood out among the rest of the tight ends. Sudfeld moved from the Patriots to the Jets roster after just three games last season, and ultimately recorded just five catches for 63 yards on the year. FANTASY ANALYSIS: Some of you are probably having unwelcome flashbacks to the 2013 preseason right now. Last year, certain fantasy personalities hyped Sudfeld tremendously through training camp and into fantasy draft season. Sudfeld was way over-drafted and ended up disappointing massively. So it's understandable if the news that Sudfeld is again having a great camp falls on deaf ears. Sudfeld has a lot of potential with his 6'7quot; frame, but until he's at least named the Jets starter, you shouldn't repeat last year's mistakes by drafting him.
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