Arizona Cardinals QB Kurt Warner said at the opening of training camp that he still has some soreness in his hip from offseason surgery.
Pyro's Take:
Warner played through the pain in 20 games last year, and he said that the soreness he feels now is no worse than the pain he felt last season. We expect him to still be a top-tier QB this year.
The Baltimore Ravens' WR was carted off the field on Saturday after tweaking his left hammy.
Pyro's Take:
This doesn't appear to be a serious injury as the Ravens are just being "cautious" but it doesn't help Clayton's stock- which fell when Derrick Mason decided to play again.
The Baltimore Ravens top receiver had surgery in the offseason to repair a torn labrum and damaged scapula, but he looked in good form Sunday catching passes from QB Joe Flacco.
Pyro's Take:
Mason needed the surgery, and we expect it to have no negative bearing on his performance this season. He's still a top-40 receiver and should have no problem emulating the season he had last year when he caught 80 passes for 1,037 yards.
McGahee, the veteran RB for the Baltimore Ravens, was put on the active/PUP list for the start of training camp but was activated on July 30.
Pyro's Take:
The oft-injured RB underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in the offseason for 34th time and the Ravens were just monitoring its progress. It looks healthy and he's ready to return to full training.
Ravens WR Demetrius Williams tweaked his right hamstring in practice on Sunday and is out a few days.
Pyro's Take:
This isn't good news for Williams, who is very injury prone. He is coming off a year in which he missed most of the season with an Achilles injury. His speed is his game so he needs that hamstring healthy to be a threat.
According to Mike Florio of NBC Sports, Inside sources believe that Edwards's ankle injury could have something to do with the lack of trade or contract extension he has received.
Pyro's Take:
This can't shock anyone. Edwards does not seem to care about football, he is more concerned with his male-modeling career. Put us in the camp of fake-injury believers.
The Cincinnati Bengals QB declared himself fully healed from reconstructive surgery on his right elbow. "I feel great. I'm 100 percent healthy, throwing, lifting, running all that stuff."
Pyro's Take:
While we expected nothing less, it's still reassuring to hear this from the QB that only played in four games last season. Thus far in training camp, he's thrown the ball with great velocity while adding some zip. We like Palmer to put up impressive numbers this year.
The disgruntled Broncos WR Brandon Marshall sat out the last practice on Sunday and all of Monday after injuring his hamstring, according to the AP.
Pyro's Take:
Marshall is recovering from offseason hip surgery, and his injury occured on the same leg he was operated on. New head coach Josh McDaniels isn't saying much about it, but either way, the more time he spends off the field, the worse it gets for him.
Detroit Lions veteran WR Bryant Johnson is out for about the first two weeks of training camp due to an injury he suffered in a golf cart in early July.
Pyro's Take:
There's no broken bones, but apparantly he has a lot of flesh wounds (like the guy from Monty Python), some of which are still open. We aren't quite sure what Johnson was doing with the golf cart, but we've never quite heard of an injury like this before.
For the first time in three years, Indianapolis Colts QB Peyton Manning arrived at training camp on time and 100 percent healthy.
Pyro's Take:
Not that it matters much, as Manning missed all of last year's camp after getting two surgeries on his left knee, and still had a great year. This will just add a little more to his already sky-high value.
After undergoing two surgeries, one to his right hip and another to one of his knees, Indianapolis Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri started training camp on the PUP list and likely won't get any action in the preseason.
Pyro's Take:
Coach Jim Caldwell said the arthroscopic surgery on Vinatieri's knee was just to make sure he "wouldn't have any problems" this season and he said he expects Vinateiri to be ready for week one. Still two surgeries in one offseason can't be good for a kicker.
The Jacksonville Jags new WR Torry Holt is only practicing once a day during this first week in training camp, according to Jaguars.com, which cited Holt's knee as the reason.
Pyro's Take:
Holt had surgery on his knee before the 2008 season, so we're pretty certain this is just a precautionary measure. Holt will be the No. 1 WR in Jacksonville and should be fully healthy to start the season.
The Chiefs backup RB is still rehabbing from an undisclosed knee injury he suffered last season and is not practicing with the team.
Pyro's Take:
Smith has been conditioning on the side, but has yet to participate in team drills or activities. He's been rehabbing this knee for a while, and he won't be a fantasy factor in 2009.
Miami Dolphins WR Greg Camarillo is practicing with the first team during training camp after recovering from offseason ACL and meniscus surgery.
Pyro's Take:
Camarillo is coming off a great season, but as Mark McGwire would say, we're not hear to talk about the past. The offseason surgery hurts his fantasy value big time and we're not that high on him.
Even though Tarvaris Jackson's back practicing now after sitting out a few days with an MCL sprain, SI.com's Peter King believes that Sage Rosenfels is now a sure thing to be named Vikings starting QB. "I think Sage Rosenfels was the Minnesota starter before Tarvaris Jackson went down with a strained knee at practice the other day, and he's still going to be the starter now, obviously."
Pyro's Take:
Honestly, we still don't know who to pick here, but whichever QB wins the battle, they are going to have a tough time putting up big numbers in Minnesota. As coach Brad Childress said the other day, "we have a long way to go to be happy with the passing game."
Even though Tarvaris Jackson's back practicing now after sitting out a few days with an MCL sprain, SI.com's Peter King believes that Sage Rosenfels is now a sure thing to be named Vikings starting QB. "I think Sage Rosenfels was the Minnesota starter before Tarvaris Jackson went down with a strained knee at practice the other day, and he's still going to be the starter now, obviously."
Pyro's Take:
Honestly, we still don't know who to pick here, but whichever QB wins the battle, they are going to have a tough time putting up big numbers in Minnesota. As coach Brad Childress said the other day, "we have a long way to go to be happy with the passing game."
New England Patriots QB Tom Brady practiced without the brace in morning workouts in shells and shorts on Thursday but he put the brace on for evening full padded workouts.
Pyro's Take:
In an effort to provide maximum detail on Tom Brady's every move, we give you this wonderful piece of news. Bottom line, his knee's fine.
The Patriots All-Universe quarterback Tom Brady said he plans to play in the Patriots preseason games, something he didn't do last year.
Pyro's Take:
Brady needs these games to get back in sync with his teammates after sitting out all last year with the ACL tear. He's still a top-three fantasy quarterback and he will just put on a clinic during these games.
New Orleans Saints RB Reggie Bush left practice Wednesday morning to ice his knee, but he says it was "just as a precaution." He would return to practice Wednesday evening.
Pyro's Take:
Bush had surgery on his left knee in December to repair torn cartilage, but neither he nor the Saints are concerned with his injury. Coach Sean Payton has limited Bush's work load but stressed Bush is ready to play a full NFL game.
ESPN.com's Chris Mortensen reports that New Orleans Saints RB Reggie Bush looked "stunningly explosive" during his visit to training camp and that Bush said he's 90-95% healthy.
Pyro's Take:
Bush had microfracture surgery to repair torn cartilage in his knee in December and he's being limited in practice by coach Sean Payton. However, he should be ready to go come week 1 and if Mort is right, we could be seeing the Bush we're used to.
Brandon Jones suffered a shoulder bone break and will be out thru the first month or so of the season.
Pyro's Take:
Great. This just gives Crabbytree more leverage in his petty holdout. Bump Sir Issac the Bruce up your board as he should be starting opposite Josh Morgan.
According to ESPN.com, Jackson came up gimpy on his knee again as he attempts to stay in the competition for primary hander-offer to Adrian Peterson this season.
Pyro's Take:
Childress is still trying to sell Favre on un-retiring, and with Sage Rosenfels and Tarvaris Jackson as his alternatives, who could blame him?
DeSean Jackson was seen shaken up after hyper-extending his knee in practice today. He was able to walk the lengthy of the field after the scare, but the knee was heavily wrapped after practice as a pre-caution.
Pyro's Take:
Not much to say on this one, except that we will keep you informed as much as possible. This could give Maclin the looks he's been praying for.
Kenny Britt has been on the PUP list since camp started with a hamstring injury but is now practicing and ready to start competing for reps. He was a bit tense in his first practice on Friday, dropping a few balls, etc, but settled down by the end. He will not be playing the NFL pre-season opener tonight vs. TO and the Bills.
Pyro's Take:
When Justin Gage is your #1 WR, there is always a shot to be the featured guy, even as a rookie - and no matter what round you were drafted. We have Britt ranked ahead of Gage, but behind Nate Washington.
Donnie Avery hurt his foot in a Friday night scrimmage and woke up with soreness. An MRI revealed enough to have him sitting throughout the rest of the pre-season. He should be ready for the week one opener.
Pyro's Take:
The Rams were already very thin at WR. Crank up the Cheddar Bob Burress and Matt Jones rumors. We're not sure why the Rams were willing to go into the season with so much unproven talent, but maybe they're just playing for another top 2-3 pick again. That's one way to build a franchise.
Mike Walker had to leave the Saturday evening scrimmage after sustaining an injury to his lower leg. X-rays revealed no damage.
Pyro's Take:
This guy is a sleeper on everyone's board (but ours), and don't get us wrong, we like him, but his chances of staying healthy are slim, and even if he does, the #2 WR on the Jags doesn't do much for us. He is a talent, but probably a couple of years away from being someone you want in your starting lineup on a regular basis.
For the first time since injuring his ankle on Aug. 1, rookie RB Beanie Wells practiced at full speed while making cuts in solo drills without major pain.
Pyro's Take:
Wells is still unlikely to play in the Cardinals' first preseason game on Thursday, as head coach Ken Whisenhunt added, "it's probably not greatly possible. . . .But there are plenty of preseason games left we can get him in, so we should be OK." We expected Wells to take over the starting job from Tim Hightower by the end of September, but this injury will delay it a little more.
According to Arizona Cardinals beat writer Daniel Urban, Tim Hightower is "stretching the distance" between he and rookie RB Beanie Wells on the depth chart.
Pyro's Take:
Wells sat out last week with an injured ankle, and that is never good for a rookie. Every day Wells misses time is a good day for Hightower. However, we predicted Wells to takeover Hightower's starting job by the end of September, and this injury will only delay that by one or two weeks.
Arizona Cardinals QB Kurt Warner said that his hip is about 85 percent healthy from offseason surgery.
Pyro's Take:
Warner has been able to fully participate in training camp, but there have been multiple times where Warner will grimace in pain or appear to favor his hip. He's only played 16 games once since 2001, but at age 38, he's started 31 consecutive games. So which Warner will show up this year?
Arizona Cardinals' WR Anquan Boldin skipped Monday's morning workout and rode the stationary bike. Coach Ken Whisenhunt said Boldin had swelling in his knee.
Pyro's Take:
This shouldn't be a big concern, as Boldin said, "there is nothing wrong with me" and he was riding the bike just for "maintenance." Boldin has since returned to practice but he might be limited the remainder of training camp. Either way, we expect him to be 100 percent when week one comes along.
Baltimore Ravens RB Willis McGahee, known for his questionable work ethic, injury-prone history and dodgy attitude, has really impressed RB coach Wilbert Montgomery during training camp. "“We’ve got a smarter Willis McGahee, more of a student of the game with a good work ethic."
Pyro's Take:
While this may not seem like much, this is actually high praise for McGahee. Unfortunately, he's still second behind Ray Rice on the depth chart, but he'll see his fair share of carries as the Ravens use a RBBC system.
Baltimore Ravens veteran WR Derrick Mason dislocated his middle finger on his right hand Tuesday and could miss the Ravens' first preseason game on Thursday.
Pyro's Take:
Mason injured his finger trying to scoop up the ball on a low pass from QB Joe Flacco, but coach Johm Harbaugh said, "we don't anticipate any problems" with the finger. Mason is a warrior is this is simply a minor setback for him.
Baltimore Ravens WR Demetrius Williams was held out of Monday morning's practice due to "twinges of pain in his right hamstring."
Pyro's Take:
So much for Williams being 100 percent healthy. He downplayed the injury as nothing serious. "I'm just being careful. It's nothing that's going to keep me out." We sure hope so, because he needs to stay healthy this preseason if he's going to have any impact at all during the season.
The Baltimore Sun revealed that Mark Clayton actually tore his hamstring nine days ago when he was carted off the field.
Pyro's Take:
This is much more serious than we first thought it was, and Clayton will be out at least half of the preseason, but possibly all the way to week one. This is obviously not good news for the second WR on the Ravens depth chart. We considered him a fringe fantasy starter before the injury, but you'll now have to take this injury into account.
Baltimore Ravens' veteran TE Todd Heap was held out of practice Monday morning due to tightness in his lower back.
Pyro's Take:
Heap downplayed the issue, saying, ""My body is feeling good, so I'm just trying to be smart with what I'm doing...I'm just going to try to play it by ear." Heap has looked good this offseason and we think it's no big deal as well.
Buffalo Bills WR Terrell Owens sat out practice again Wednesday due to his hurt toe. "He said it felt a little better," coach Dick Jauron said.
Pyro's Take:
Poor T.O. He hasn't played since the Hall of Fame Game on Sunday, but he's still considered day-to-day. This shouldn't be too big of an issue.
Buffalo Bills coach Dick Jauron released a statement Tuesday saying WR Terrell Owens was held out of that evening's practice due to a "sprained toe."
Pyro's Take:
T.O. suffered this injury in the Hall of Fame Game and he hasn't played since then. But fear not, according to Buffalobills.com Owens "will still participate in tonight’s autograph session for fans." That's gotta be a first.
Carolina Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart sat out both practices on Wednesday as he's nursing an Achilles injury.
Pyro's Take:
The Panthers are being extra cautious with Stewart, who is close to full health. Stewart has played moderately over the course of training camp, but beat reporter Steve Reed thinks the wet field held Stewart out of Wednesday's practices. "The fact it rained at both practices and the field was very wet might have had something to do with Stewart sitting out," he said.
If there were any doubts about Cincinnati Bengals' QB Carson Palmer's health and playing ability, brother and backup QB Jordan Palmer would like to get rid of them. "His arm strength is better than ever. He's as accurate as he's ever been. He's in the best shape I've ever seen him in," Palmer said.
Pyro's Take:
After reading about his work during minicamp and thus far during training camp, he have no doubts that he will become a top fantasy QB again this year. He's ready to go.
Cleveland Browns' WR Braylon Edwards returned to practice Thursday after he left practice Wednesday with an apparant ankle injury.
Pyro's Take:
Edwards says he is fine and expects to play in the first preseason game Saturday night against the Packers. Edwards missed the first four days of training camp with an ankle injury so this will be a good test to see whether he is fully healthy or not.
The Carolina Panthers got a nice surprise Friday morning when WR Steve Smith returned to practice four days after injuring his shoulder.
Pyro's Take:
According to the AP, Smith was dressed in full pads and ran drills with the other receivers. It's still not clear if Smith will play in the Panthers preseason game against the Giants on Monday, but this is good news for Smith and fantasy owners alike.
Cincinnati Bengals QB Carson Palmer was injured just before the end of the 1st quarter, a quarter which also saw the Bengals newly acquired Laveranues Coles come out of the game as well. Palmer was said to have a high ankle sprain while Coles was helped on the field by the team's training staff, but was able to walk off under his own power with an undisclosed injury.
Pyro's Take:
The good news is that Coles seems to be okay, but it would be a devastating blow to the Bengals if Palmer was to be out for any amount of time. There has been a tremendous amount of anticipation around Cinci and the rest of league as to how the Bengals will fare this year with a healthy Palmer running the show. Let's hope the world doesn't have to wait too long to see the revamped Bungals in action.
Cincinnati Bengals QB Carson Palmer was injured just before the end of the 1st quarter, with a mild ankle sprain.
Pyro's Take:
Palmer's injury appears to be a mild sprain that is not expected to keep him out of any action. That said, you can bet that Marv will be looking to keep his meal ticket's mileage low for the rest of the pre-season. Palmer is good to go this year if he can stay on the field.
Lance Moore has missed all of training camp due to shoulder surgery he underwent earlier this spring. It was originally thought that he would be out up until the regular season started, but it now appears that he could see some time in the Saints 2nd pre-season game at Houston.
Pyro's Take:
This is encouraging news for Moore owners. The WR depth chart is all of the sudden crowded with Robert Meachem having a nice camp and the newly minted Devery Henderson. Moore should assume his slot duties once he's healthy, but Meachem will be close on his tails and making a case for targets.
He is scheduled for an MRI tomorrow. Knowshon was seen limping and it was reported that it could be something to do with his knee.
Pyro's Take:
It must be the start of pre-season. Highly touted fantasy saviors are dropping like flies already. We'll keep close tabs on this one. We had Knowshon ranked high for a rookie.
Andre Brown was having a great camp until practice early Friday evening. As he went up for a pass in traffic, he landed awkwardly on his foot and ruptured his achilles tendon. He will miss the entire season.
Pyro's Take:
Buzzkiller. Ouch. Just ask Dave Brass about those achilles injuries. Go on ahead and bump Ahmad Bradshaw, as at least one more threat is gone from the three-headed RBBC. Danny Ware moves up to third string, but we can't see him being used much. This will be Jacobs and Bradshaw until one of 'em goes down.
Dallas Cowboys RB Tashard Choice was held out of practice Wednesday because he felt major pain in his shoulder. However, the MRI revealed no structural damage.
Pyro's Take:
This appears to be just a minor injury, and Choice should be back on the field within the next couple of days.
Denver Broncos WR Brandon Marshall, who has been out since injuring his leg two weeks ago, could return to practice as soon as Sunday, the Denver Post reports.
Pyro's Take:
With all his legal woes behind him, and his leg just about healthy, Marshall should physically be ready to go full throttle in training camp. As for the mental aspect after new QB Kyle Orton threw three INTs in the Broncos' first preseason game, we'll leave that for the jury.
Detroit Lions' WR Calvin Johnson will miss today's preseason game against Atlanta due to a sprained thumb.
Pyro's Take:
Megatron doesn't have any bone damage in the thumb, so this is most likely just a precaution. He's still the second best receiver in the league.
Detroit Lions WR Bryant Johnson, who is expected to start opposite Calvin Johnson, still hasn't practiced during training camp as he's recovering from injuries sustained in a golf-cart incident in July.
Pyro's Take:
There's not really another option for the No. 2 receiver spot, so it's Johnson's as long as he stays out of golf carts. As far as his return goes, we have no idea when he'll come back.
Green Bay Packers' RB Ryan Grant has been focusing on his explosiveness this offseason as he tries to regain his 2007 form.
Pyro's Take:
Grant's struggles last year were well documented, as he went from 5.1 YPC in 2007 to 3.9 last year. However, coach Mike McCarthy pointed out that this is the first year Grant has had a full training camp with the Packers, and that can only help him as he tries to regain his form.
The Houston Texans' QB Matt Schaub, aka Mr. Glass, has remained healthy thus far this offseason, and is ahead of where he was this time last year when he was recovering from shoulder surgery.
Pyro's Take:
This is definitely news, because if Schaub can stay healthy, the Texans are a dynamic team. But if he goes down, we hesitate to put our faith in backups Dan Orlovsky and Rex Grossman. So no news means good news for Schaub.
Four days, six missed practices, and a sore achilles heel.
Pyro's Take:
Last year it was his toe. Achilles injuries tend to linger. We are down on the Panther rushing attack this season due to that brutal schedule. The wholes may not be as big this season.
QB Marc Bulger injured the pinkie finger on his right (throwing) hand in practice today. Coach Spags did not think it looked too serious, and Bulger did return to practice and took some throws on the sidelines. (queue chuckling) Backup Kyle Boller ran with the first team for the rest of practice.
**update** Bulger to miss two weeks of pre-season.
Pyro's Take:
This team is so screwed with or without Bulger,but we suppose we would bump Steven Jackson down out of the first round if Kyle Boller was under center to start the season. He's just bad.
**update** Bulger is a veteran and all this will do is give Boller a chance to grind the WR reps to a halt with his errant/noodle-armed throws. This team is in trouble no matter how you slice it.
Westbrook returned to practice this weekend but was limited. LeSean McCoy has been getting all of this reps in August and has been looking as good as billed.
Pyro's Take:
This situation is stinking of a RBBC. It's one thing if the Eagles don't have other options, but they do. McCoy is a 21 year old Westy clone. We are bumping Westy down.
The Vikings are playing it conservative with their new utility, and opted to delay Harvin's debut until next Friday's game vs. the Chiefs.
Pyro's Take:
Pussies. Grow a pair. Get this kid out on the field. The anticipation is killing us!!
Wrist taped, and wearing Patrick Crayton's #84 for some odd reason.
Pyro's Take:
Good news. We disagree with many that think Roy doesn't have it. He is injury prone, sure, but when healthy, and a QB like Romo, he can be elite.
Britt missed OTAs and the first part of camp w/ a hamstring issue, and this could be a recurrence of that.
Pyro's Take:
We'll report anything we hear, but hamstring issues tend to linger, and there is exactly one break once the season starts.
Jerry McDonald tweeted that Schilens left practice with an injury.
Pyro's Take:
Outside of injury, Schilens' fantasy value is entirely dependent on who is under center. If Russell wins the gig, he is barely a WR5, but if Garcia wins it, we would advocate Chaz as a WR3 with enormous upside and ability to return even greater value than that.
Minnesota Vikings QB Tavaris Jackson started out the day as the perceived backup QB to Sage Rosenfels. With the signing of Brett Favre, Jackson is now unlikely to make the final roster cut at the end of the preseason.
Pyro's Take:
Jackson has the talent to play in the league, but his injury history and contract situation is working against his playing with the Vikings. Rosenfels deserves the backup role to Favre at this point, so if the Vikings let loose of Jackson, we wouldn't be the least bit surprised.
Minnesota Vikings QB Tavaris Jackson started out the day as the perceived backup QB to Sage Rosenfels. With the signing of Brett Favre, Jackson is now unlikely to make the final roster cut at the end of the preseason.
Pyro's Take:
Jackson has the talent to play in the league, but his injury history and contract situation is working against his playing with the Vikings. Rosenfels deserves the backup role to Favre at this point, so if the Vikings let loose of Jackson, we wouldn't be the least bit surprised.
After Chaz Schilens left practice today with a broken foot, JaMarcus and the passing attack went straight into the pooper according beat writer, Jerry McDonald of the Oakland Tribune.
Pyro's Take:
This is a little glimpse of what could have been, we suppose. We weren't at all high on Russell having any sort of break through this season, and his ability to hit anyone under 6'4" has been in question since day one. You can give Zach Miller a slight bump on the Schilens injury news, though.
Donnie Avery is already out of the protective book he has been wearing since being injured about 1.5 weeks ago. Originally thought to be a 4-6 week thing, Avery is already lobbying to come back.
Pyro's Take:
We love to see the attitude, and we know that the Rams are woefully thin at the position. For that reason, we wouldn't rush the kid back. What is to be gained? Let him mend another week, the Rams are gonna suck anyway.
New Orleans Saints RB Reggie Bush was seen limping after practice, though there were no reports on what happened to him. He had been running routes for Drew Brees, who had also just returned to practice after attending his mother's funeral services earlier this week.
Pyro's Take:
This isn't the first injury alarm for Bush this off-season, and we're betting it won't be the last. When he's on the field, he's fun to watch, but over-rated as a fantasy player. Regardless, he's too much of an injury risk to be putting a lot of stock into him, and is merely a handcuff this season with the emergence of RB Pierre Thomas.
Newly signed QB Brett Favre is slated to start for the Vikings in tonight's game against the Chiefs. He'll likely play only one series, which won't give onlookers much of a chance to assess what his impact will be this year. Tavaris Jackson will take on the backup duties as Sage Rosenfels is expected to sit out due to an ankle injury.
Pyro's Take:
And so it begins. Round three of the Brett Favre saga is sure to be an interesting one, as the almost 40-year old gunslinger joins a Vikings team primed to make a run at the Super Bowl. The side soap opera storyline of joining a team within the same conference as the team that made him famous, the Green Bay Packers, should be fun to watch a couple times this year as well. At least we don't have to deal with the "is he or isn't he" riffraff anymore.
On a side note, this might be Tavaris Jackson's last chance to prove himself worthy of backup QB capabilities. He'll likely need a Fran Tarkingtonesque performance to do so.
Newly signed QB Brett Favre is slated to start for the Vikings in tonight's game against the Chiefs. He'll likely play only one series, which won't give onlookers much of a chance to assess what his impact will be this year. Tavaris Jackson will take on the backup duties as Sage Rosenfels is expected to sit out due to an ankle injury.
Pyro's Take:
And so it begins. Round three of the Brett Favre saga is sure to be an interesting one, as the almost 40-year old gunslinger joins a Vikings team primed to make a run at the Super Bowl. The side soap opera storyline of joining a team within the same conference as the team that made him famous, the Green Bay Packers, should be fun to watch a couple times this year as well. At least we don't have to deal with the "is he or isn't he" riffraff anymore.
On a side note, this might be Tavaris Jackson's last chance to prove himself worthy of backup QB capabilities. He'll likely need a Fran Tarkingtonesque performance to do so.
Newly signed QB Brett Favre is slated to start for the Vikings in tonight's game against the Chiefs. He'll likely play only one series, which won't give onlookers much of a chance to assess what his impact will be this year. Tavaris Jackson will take on the backup duties as Sage Rosenfels is expected to sit out due to an ankle injury.
Pyro's Take:
And so it begins. Round three of the Brett Favre saga is sure to be an interesting one, as the almost 40-year old gunslinger joins a Vikings team primed to make a run at the Super Bowl. The side soap opera storyline of joining a team within the same conference as the team that made him famous, the Green Bay Packers, should be fun to watch a couple times this year as well. At least we don't have to deal with the "is he or isn't he" riffraff anymore.
On a side note, this might be Tavaris Jackson's last chance to prove himself worthy of backup QB capabilities. He'll likely need a Fran Tarkingtonesque performance to do so.
Seattle Seahawks starting RB Julius Jones has practiced only once this week and might miss Saturday's preseason game against the Broncos because of it. The nature of his injury has not been disclosed.
Pyro's Take:
Julius stands to have a good comeback year running within new OC Greg Knapp's zone blocking scheme, so hopefully the injury is nothing major. We'll keep you updated as the situation progresses.
Minnesota Vikings WR Bernard Berrian was inactive for Friday night's preseason game against the Chiefs due to a hamstring injury.
Pyro's Take:
Berrian was out running around on Friday for the first time since he got injured last Friday, but still isn't ready for contact drills. We expect him to be ready for the beginning of the regular season, but you might not see him play for the rest of the preseason to rest his gimpy hamstring. We'll keep you updated on his progress over the next couple of weeks.
New Orleans RB Reggie Bush sat out the Saints preseason match-up against the Texans on Saturday night with knee and calf injuries, though neither injury is considered serious. The coaches felt it best to play it safe and not take any chances with their versatile RB.
Pyro's Take:
Pierre Thomas made the start and did his best impression of Bush, catching three balls for 27 yards, one of them for a 9-yard TD. It's no secret that Reggie has a tough time staying on the field, and this preseason has done nothing to debunk that thought. Bush's talent is undeniable, but his injury-prone status continues to make him a very tough pick on draft day, especially with the emergence of Pierre Thomas.
New Orleans RB Reggie Bush sat out the Saints preseason match-up against the Texans on Saturday night with knee and calf injuries, though neither injury is considered serious. The coaches felt it best to play it safe and not take any chances with their versatile RB.
Pyro's Take:
Pierre Thomas made the start and did his best impression of Bush, catching three balls for 27 yards, one of them for a 9-yard TD. It's no secret that Reggie has a tough time staying on the field, and this preseason has done nothing to debunk that thought. Bush's talent is undeniable, but his injury-prone status continues to make him a very tough pick on draft day, especially with the emergence of Pierre Thomas.
Titans big off-season addition WR Nate Washington went down with a right hamstring injury in practice Monday. Washington is scheduled to undergo an MRI and is expected to miss the final two preseason games.
Pyro's Take:
Washington has been everything the Titans were hoping for during the first part of training camp, but will now have to play the waiting game while combing through their roster for a temporary replacement. Washington stood to be the WR1 for the Titans this season, as his abilities were shown to outweigh the feeble Justin Gage's. For now, Justin Gage takes over as the WR1 again for the Titans and we'll keep you updated on Nate's progress with the injury as it unfolds.
Titans big off-season addition WR Nate Washington went down with a right hamstring injury in practice Monday. Washington is scheduled to undergo an MRI and is expected to miss the final two preseason games.
Pyro's Take:
Washington has been everything the Titans were hoping for during the first part of training camp, but will now have to play the waiting game while combing through their roster for a temporary replacement. Washington stood to be the WR1 for the Titans this season, as his abilities were shown to outweigh the feeble Justin Gage's. For now, Justin Gage takes over as the WR1 again for the Titans and we'll keep you updated on Nate's progress with the injury as it unfolds.
Shonn Greene ended up on the sidelines after taking a shot to the ribs during Monday night's preseason game against the Ravens.
Pyro's Take:
The injury does not appear to be serious, but it almost doesn't matter. He won't see enough touches to be fantasy relevant. He would need both Leon and TJ to go down to warrant starting - even as a stop-gap. That said, as a last round flier, you could do worse.
Pat Yasinskas of ESPN reports that Williams should see the bulk of the carries this season with or without the health of Jonathan Stewart. Stewart is recovering from a Achilles heel injury.
Pyro's Take:
Williams is the more talented runner - Period. We bumped up D after his crazy sick run from this weekend, and are feeling even better about it after thie report. DeAngelo will be hard-pressed to dupe last year's numbers, but at the end of the day, he can run, catch, and runs behind a strong O-line anchored by T Jordan Gross.
Oakland Raiders WR Javon Walker was activated off the PUP list on Monday. Walker had been running routes and working off to the side during practice and will now be getting back into the full-contact side of football.
Pyro's Take:
Great news for Al Davis we suppose, in that he won't see Jabroni Walker's $2 million salary completely flushed down the toliet. However, it must be pointed out that Walker can still barely stay on the field, playing in half a season or less in three of the past four years. Over the past two years, Jabroni has played in a combined 16 games, catching just 41 balls for 483 yards and one TD over that span. He may be the WR1 right now for the Raiders due to Chaz Schilens' injury, but that still doesn't mean we'd ever draft him to our fantasy team.
Tennessee Titans first-round pick, rookie WR Kenny Britt, will take over the starting duties for the time being while the injured Nate Washington deals with his right hamstring injury. Washington's status for the Titans Week 1 game at Pittsburgh is up in the air. "I'll say it is not season-ending," Coach Jeff Fisher said. "With the information I have right now I haven't ruled him out for the opener. I don't know."
Pyro's Take:
Britt has played well enough and shown enough skills to warrant the role at this point, but the Titans would love to have Washington back sooner than later. Washington has been a bright spot for the Titans thus far in the preseason, but Britt seems ready for the chance to show his worth. "It is my opportunity to show if somebody goes down I can fill their shoes," said Britt. "If anyone goes down on the receiving corps you're expected to step up and fill their shoes."
Washington could emerge as a back-end fantasy starter this year as the WR1 on the Titans, while Britt has enough talent and upside to warrant a late-round flier in drafts as well. We'll keep you updated on the situation as it goes.
Tennessee Titans first-round pick, rookie WR Kenny Britt, will take over the starting duties for the time being while the injured Nate Washington deals with his right hamstring injury. Washington's status for the Titans Week 1 game at Pittsburgh is up in the air. "I'll say it is not season-ending," Coach Jeff Fisher said. "With the information I have right now I haven't ruled him out for the opener. I don't know."
Pyro's Take:
Britt has played well enough and shown enough skills to warrant the role at this point, but the Titans would love to have Washington back sooner than later. Washington has been a bright spot for the Titans thus far in the preseason, but Britt seems ready for the chance to show his worth. "It is my opportunity to show if somebody goes down I can fill their shoes," said Britt. "If anyone goes down on the receiving corps you're expected to step up and fill their shoes."
Washington could emerge as a back-end fantasy starter this year as the WR1 on the Titans, while Britt has enough talent and upside to warrant a late-round flier in drafts as well. We'll keep you updated on the situation as it goes.
Detroit Lions star WR Calvin Johnson returned to practice on Monday after being sidelined for two weeks with a right thumb injury. Also returning to the practice field were the Lions second and third WRs, Bryant Johnson (off-season golf cart accident) and Dennis Northcutt (hand). It was the first time in training camp the three receivers were all on the field at the same time.
Pyro's Take:
"It feels pretty good, especially with having everybody back. It's back like it was in (the off-season workouts)," said receiver Calvin Johnson. "As long as it felt good today, I knew we'd be good to go, and it felt good today."
After going a woeful 0-16 last season, the Lions need all their players healthy, along with every bit of good news they can get. Megatron is the star of the team, but he can't do it alone, so having his fellow injured WRs back with him can only help. Keep 'Tron up in the top three spots on your WR chart.
Detroit Lions star WR Calvin Johnson returned to practice on Monday after being sidelined for two weeks with a right thumb injury. Also returning to the practice field were the Lions second and third WRs, Bryant Johnson (off-season golf cart accident) and Dennis Northcutt (hand). It was the first time in training camp the three receivers were all on the field at the same time.
Pyro's Take:
"It feels pretty good, especially with having everybody back. It's back like it was in (the off-season workouts)," said receiver Calvin Johnson. "As long as it felt good today, I knew we'd be good to go, and it felt good today."
After going a woeful 0-16 last season, the Lions need all their players healthy, along with every bit of good news they can get. Megatron is the star of the team, but he can't do it alone, so having his fellow injured WRs back with him can only help. Keep 'Tron up in the top three spots on your WR chart.
Cleveland Browns RB Jerome Harrison has been riding a bike on the sidelines during practice the past couple of weeks. It's unclear exactly what the injury is and when it occurred.
Pyro's Take:
The Browns may have a running back controversy on their hands. Jamal Lewis has been unimpressive this preseason, and isn't getting any younger. At the same time, the guy who was supposed to be stealing carries from Lewis this season has been injured the past few weeks. What's more is that in Harrison's absence, the back who has been the most outstanding thus far is rookie James Davis, who many are saying should take over for Jamal Lewis sometime during the regular season, if not to begin the season. Whatever happens in this situation, stay away from Cleveland RBs in your upcoming drafts.
Cleveland Browns RB Jerome Harrison has been riding a bike on the sidelines during practice the past couple of weeks. It's unclear exactly what the injury is and when it occurred.
Pyro's Take:
The Browns may have a running back controversy on their hands. Jamal Lewis has been unimpressive this preseason, and isn't getting any younger. At the same time, the guy who was supposed to be stealing carries from Lewis this season has been injured the past few weeks. What's more is that in Harrison's absence, the back who has been the most outstanding thus far is rookie James Davis, who many are saying should take over for Jamal Lewis sometime during the regular season, if not to begin the season. Whatever happens in this situation, stay away from Cleveland RBs in your upcoming drafts.
Cleveland Browns RB Jerome Harrison has been riding a bike on the sidelines during practice the past couple of weeks. It's unclear exactly what the injury is and when it occurred.
Pyro's Take:
The Browns may have a running back controversy on their hands. Jamal Lewis has been unimpressive this preseason, and isn't getting any younger. At the same time, the guy who was supposed to be stealing carries from Lewis this season has been injured the past few weeks. What's more is that in Harrison's absence, the back who has been the most outstanding thus far is rookie James Davis, who many are saying should take over for Jamal Lewis sometime during the regular season, if not to begin the season. Whatever happens in this situation, stay away from Cleveland RBs in your upcoming drafts.
New Orleans Saints RB Reggie Bush sat out the last preseason game with a strained calf, but on Monday declared himself ready to play. "It's just precautionary, taking it slow, building back to the season," Bush said of missing the Texans' game. "I'm sure I'll play quite a bit this game. I know I'm looking forward to it."
Bush also said that his surgically repaired left knee is 100 percent.
Pyro's Take:
Bush said he expects to carry a heavy workload in the game, though we're not so sure the Saints are ready to take that chance. Bush has been prone to injury over the years, and the Saints now have the guy they want in there to reduce Reggie's load in Pierre Thomas. Reggie is no doubt important to the team, so we expect the coaching staff to ease him back into action instead of throwing him in the fire.
Jacksonville Jaguars rookie RB Rashad Jennings returned to practice on Monday after sitting out Saturday night's preseason game with a groin injury.
Pyro's Take:
Jennings had been working real hard in camp and was impressing his coaches until the minor setback. He needs to come back strong if he wants to beat out Greg Jones for the backup duties to Maurice Jones-Drew. If Jennings can show the Jaguar brass a little something the next few days in practice, then have a nice game on Thursday against the Eagles, he will be the one fantasy owners need to handcuff to MJD. Keep a watchful eye on this situation.
Jacksonville Jaguars rookie RB Rashad Jennings returned to practice on Monday after sitting out Saturday night's preseason game with a groin injury.
Pyro's Take:
Jennings had been working real hard in camp and was impressing his coaches until the minor setback. He needs to come back strong if he wants to beat out Greg Jones for the backup duties to Maurice Jones-Drew. If Jennings can show the Jaguar brass a little something the next few days in practice, then have a nice game on Thursday against the Eagles, he will be the one fantasy owners need to handcuff to MJD. Keep a watchful eye on this situation.
Eagles head coach Andy Reid said that besides Michael Vick, Brian Westbrook will also play in Thursday's preseason game against the Jaguars.
Pyro's Take:
This is great news for Eagles fans and fantasy owners alike. There were nerves circling around that Westbrook wouldn't be ready to go until the first regular season game, sparking speculation that he wasn't quite over the off-season ankle surgery just yet. Reid quickly put all those nerves to rest today. If you happened to move Westy down your cheet sheet due to the injury, you can safely move him back up now.
Detroit Lions second first-round pick, TE Brandon Pettigrew, returned to practice on a limited basis Monday after dealing with a thigh injury for most of camp.
Pyro's Take:
Pettigrew has a chance to play in Saturday's preseason matchup against the Colts if he shows he can withstand a weeks worth of practice. Brandon has tremendous upside and could turn out to be a good backup fantasy TE this season. If rookie QB Matthew Stafford ends up starting, Pettigrew could turn out to be his outlet valve as rookie QBs tend to lean on their TEs more than veterans.
New York Giants WRs Domenik Hixon and Steve Smith came into camp as the first-team receivers and will leave the same way, despite Smith missing two weeks of practice due to knee injury.
Pyro's Take:
Nobody else in the Giants WR corps stood out enough to take the job, so Hixon and Smith will remain the starters for now. Rookie Hakeem Nicks probably has the most upside out of the group, with Ramses Barden being the most consistent and red-zone capable. Sinorice Moss, Mario Manningham, and Derek Hagan could all sneak into the mix as well. The Giants will most likely run a WRBC (wide receiver by committee) all year, so consider this your warning before drafting any of these guys.
New York Giants WRs Domenik Hixon and Steve Smith came into camp as the first-team receivers and will leave the same way, despite Smith missing two weeks of practice due to knee injury.
Pyro's Take:
Nobody else in the Giants WR corps stood out enough to take the job, so Hixon and Smith will remain the starters for now. Rookie Hakeem Nicks probably has the most upside out of the group, with Ramses Barden being the most consistent and red-zone capable. Sinorice Moss, Mario Manningham, and Derek Hagan could all sneak into the mix as well. The Giants will most likely run a WRBC (wide receiver by committee) all year, so consider this your warning before drafting any of these guys.
New York Giants WRs Domenik Hixon and Steve Smith came into camp as the first-team receivers and will leave the same way, despite Smith missing two weeks of practice due to knee injury.
Pyro's Take:
Nobody else in the Giants WR corps stood out enough to take the job, so Hixon and Smith will remain the starters for now. Rookie Hakeem Nicks probably has the most upside out of the group, with Ramses Barden being the most consistent and red-zone capable. Sinorice Moss, Mario Manningham, and Derek Hagan could all sneak into the mix as well. The Giants will most likely run a WRBC (wide receiver by committee) all year, so consider this your warning before drafting any of these guys.
New York Giants WRs Domenik Hixon and Steve Smith came into camp as the first-team receivers and will leave the same way, despite Smith missing two weeks of practice due to knee injury.
Pyro's Take:
Nobody else in the Giants WR corps stood out enough to take the job, so Hixon and Smith will remain the starters for now. Rookie Hakeem Nicks probably has the most upside out of the group, with Ramses Barden being the most consistent and red-zone capable. Sinorice Moss, Mario Manningham, and Derek Hagan could all sneak into the mix as well. The Giants will most likely run a WRBC (wide receiver by committee) all year, so consider this your warning before drafting any of these guys.
New York Giants WRs Domenik Hixon and Steve Smith came into camp as the first-team receivers and will leave the same way, despite Smith missing two weeks of practice due to knee injury.
Pyro's Take:
Nobody else in the Giants WR corps stood out enough to take the job, so Hixon and Smith will remain the starters for now. Rookie Hakeem Nicks probably has the most upside out of the group, with Ramses Barden being the most consistent and red-zone capable. Sinorice Moss, Mario Manningham, and Derek Hagan could all sneak into the mix as well. The Giants will most likely run a WRBC (wide receiver by committee) all year, so consider this your warning before drafting any of these guys.
With Detroit kicker Jason Hanson out at least until the end of the preseason, the Lions signed free agent Billy Cundiff to take his place. The signing came after the original replacement, Swayze Waters, went down with a hamstring injury on Tuesday. The Lions held a group tryout following the morning practice on Wednesday and ended up choosing Cundiff out of the bunch.
Pyro's Take:
Hanson's availability for Week 1 is still up in the air, so the Lions had to make a move of some sort here. However, they could have turned to a player already on the team, as WR Dane Looker took over the duties on Tuesday when Waters went down and kicked himself a 53-yarder without a problem. This situation again begs the age-old question: Are kickers really considered football players, or are they just playground soccer players with no stamina?
Detroit Lions rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew went through a physical practice on Wednesday and came out the other side feeling fine. Pettigrew had been dealing with a thigh injury for most of camp, but has since recovered enough to take part in full-contact practices.
Pyro's Take:
It's looking more and more like the Lions will be starting the big rookie TE, as Pettigrew has the most skills of any TE on the roster and maybe the best skill-set the Lions have ever seen at the position. If the Lions other first-round pick, QB Matthew Stafford, ends up starting, expect Pettigrew to be a happy man as rookie QBs tend to lean on their TEs heavily during their rookie seasons. Despite Brandon never having played a down in the NFL, we still like him as a low-end backup fantasy TE this year with the possibility of high ROI towards the middle of the season.
Buffalo Bills RB Fred Jackson went through a bit of a scare recently when he took a hit on his left hand during a running play, the same hand he injured a week ago. "It was a little scary yesterday when I first did it, but I feel fine right now," Jackson said. "That's always a good thing when the X-rays come back negative, so I'm enthusiastic about that." Coach Dick Jauron said it's too early to say if Jackson would play in the exhibition game on Saturday.
Pyro's Take:
Jackson will be leaned on while Lynch serves his suspension, so this is good news. Dominic Rhodes is also on the depth chart but is a downgrade relative to Jackson.
Arizona Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin strained his right hamstring during practice on Tuesday and sat out Wednesday's practice as a result. Coach Ken Whisenhunt said that Boldin merely tweaked his hamstring and wouldn't rule him out for Friday's preseason matchup. He did, however, say that the team would play it safe with Boldin's injury.
Pyro's Take:
The Cardinals should play it safe with the stud receiver, as there's no need to go risking further injury to one of their starters. With Steve Breaston still out with a right knee injury, Jerheme Urban will likely take on the starting role alongside Larry Fitzgerald for Friday's game.
Arizona Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin strained his right hamstring during practice on Tuesday and sat out Wednesday's practice as a result. Coach Ken Whisenhunt said that Boldin merely tweaked his hamstring and wouldn't rule him out for Friday's preseason matchup. He did, however, say that the team would play it safe with Boldin's injury.
Pyro's Take:
The Cardinals should play it safe with the stud receiver, as there's no need to go risking further injury to one of their starters. With Steve Breaston still out with a right knee injury, Jerheme Urban will likely take on the starting role alongside Larry Fitzgerald for Friday's game.
Tampa Bay head coach Raheem Morris ruled out both WR Antonio Bryant and WR Michael Clayton for Thursday night's game. Bryant is coming off a meniscus scope done earlier this month while Clayton has been dealing with a hamstring injury he sustained in early August.
Pyro's Take:
This is a smart move by Morris, as both receivers could use one more week of rest before going back into full-contact mode. If this were a regular season game, both players probably would have been able to play, but considering the lack of depth at the position on the Bucs, it's better to be safe than sorry at this point in the year. Bryant's numbers will most likely take a small hit this year due to having a new (and worse) QB under center, but he's still worthy of starting status on your fantasy team. Clayton, however, is barely draftable.
Tampa Bay head coach Raheem Morris ruled out both WR Antonio Bryant and WR Michael Clayton for Thursday night's game. Bryant is coming off a meniscus scope done earlier this month while Clayton has been dealing with a hamstring injury he sustained in early August.
Pyro's Take:
This is a smart move by Morris, as both receivers could use one more week of rest before going back into full-contact mode. If this were a regular season game, both players probably would have been able to play, but considering the lack of depth at the position on the Bucs, it's better to be safe than sorry at this point in the year. Bryant's numbers will most likely take a small hit this year due to having a new (and worse) QB under center, but he's still worthy of starting status on your fantasy team. Clayton, however, is barely draftable.
That Rib injury that Greene suffered in the last game is apparently more serious than originally thought as Greene won't see any further action in the pre season.
Pyro's Take:
Greene was merely a short yardage option and not likely to see much action anyway. He is still someone to target late in drafts as a handcuff to TJ.
Smith injured the hip in practice earlier this week after colliding with LB Jordan Dizon. He sat out today's practice as well.
Pyro's Take:
We are high on the dude, and will monitor this injury closely.
Pittsburgh Steelers starters RB Willie Parker (hamstring) and WR Santonio Holmes (back) were both listed as questionable for Saturday night's game against Buffalo.
Pyro's Take:
FWP has been sitting out practice all week, and though the injury is not considered serious, the Steelers will probably be cautious with the smallish Parker. Holmes should be fine and again, coach Mike Tomlin is likely just playing it cautious with Holmes.
Pittsburgh Steelers starters RB Willie Parker (hamstring) and WR Santonio Holmes (back) were both listed as questionable for Saturday night's game against Buffalo.
Pyro's Take:
FWP has been sitting out practice all week, and though the injury is not considered serious, the Steelers will probably be cautious with the smallish Parker. Holmes should be fine and again, coach Mike Tomlin is likely just playing it cautious with Holmes.
Roy Williams will miss the rest of the preseason with an injury to his collarbone. X-rays did not reveal any broken bones, and he will have an MRI on the shoulder on Friday.
Pyro's Take:
We are going to be bumping him down based on this news. He has a history of injury and has not shown us much. We are going to be eating a little crow on this one, too, because we originally had high hopes for Roy.
The Denver Post is reporting that Moreno's injury is taking longer to recover from than expected and that even if his knee is healthy by Week 1, his conditioning will still be a concern. Peyton Hillis and Correll Buckhalter have been splitting the carries while Moreno and Lamont Jordan are on the mend.
Pyro's Take:
Moreno will be fine. He may be light on carries Week 1, but is much more talented and has a ton more upside than the aforementioned backs.
Dallas Cowboys WR Roy Williams, who injured his collarbone at practice on Thursday, is now being listed as day-to-day after original reports had him out 6-8 weeks with a broken collarbone. The X-rays came back negative and the Cowboys are now calling the injury a "shoulder contusion".
Pyro's Take:
We're blaming Jerry Jones for this one. Everything around this guy seems to be overblown or made too big (nice scoreboard buddy!). Though Roy is being listed as day-to-day now, we're betting they keep their top WR out of the lineup for the final two preseason games and let him rest up for Week 1. In light of the readjusted news, we will be keeping Williams right where he should be as a top-tier fantasy WR2.
Pittsburgh Steelers RB Rashard Mendenhall will likely get the start Saturday night because Willie Parker has not practiced all week due to a hamstring injury. "We'd like to get an extended look at Rashard Mendenhall whether Willie plays or not," coach Mike Tomlin said.
Pyro's Take:
The role Mendenhall will be playing this year has yet to be determined, as FWP is still the starter and Mewelde Moore the third-down back. Both Parker and Mendenhall are coming off of injury-plagued seasons, and though Parker will start games in the backfield, the Steelers will likely use these two in a RBBC this season. Mendenhall remains a necessary handcuff to Parker on draft day.
Pittsburgh Steelers RB Rashard Mendenhall will likely get the start Saturday night because Willie Parker has not practiced all week due to a hamstring injury. "We'd like to get an extended look at Rashard Mendenhall whether Willie plays or not," coach Mike Tomlin said.
Pyro's Take:
The role Mendenhall will be playing this year has yet to be determined, as FWP is still the starter and Mewelde Moore the third-down back. Both Parker and Mendenhall are coming off of injury-plagued seasons, and though Parker will start games in the backfield, the Steelers will likely use these two in a RBBC this season. Mendenhall remains a necessary handcuff to Parker on draft day.
Vikings WR Bernard Berrian said today that he’s not able to practice fully because of a hamstring injury and isn’t sure whether he will play Monday night against the Texans. Vikings coach Brad Childress said Berrian is “progressing” and has a chance of playing.
Pyro's Take:
The main concern is getting Berrian enough reps with Favre before the start of the regular season so that they can get their timing down. So far the two have only been playing catch on the side, which is a far cry from where they need to be come Week 1. We'll keep you posted on Berrian's availability for Monday night's game.
The New England Patriots came out throwing on Friday night, and it looks like QB Tom Brady and WR Randy Moss haven't missed a step. Brady went 12-of-19 for 150 yards and two TDs (both to Moss) in the first half, while Moss had six catches for 90 yards and two TDs.
Pyro's Take:
As long as Brady and Moss are healthy, you can expect this sort of production all year. However, Brady was slammed on his right shoulder towards the end of the first half, and he didn't come back out for the second half. What the extent of the injury is at this point is unclear, but he looked to be okay sitting on the bench after the play. We'll keep you updated on the situation once we know.
The New England Patriots came out throwing on Friday night, and it looks like QB Tom Brady and WR Randy Moss haven't missed a step. Brady went 12-of-19 for 150 yards and two TDs (both to Moss) in the first half, while Moss had six catches for 90 yards and two TDs.
Pyro's Take:
As long as Brady and Moss are healthy, you can expect this sort of production all year. However, Brady was slammed on his right shoulder towards the end of the first half, and he didn't come back out for the second half. What the extent of the injury is at this point is unclear, but he looked to be okay sitting on the bench after the play. We'll keep you updated on the situation once we know.
Kansas City Chiefs QB Matt Cassel's X-rays came back negative after leaving the game Saturday night with a leg injury.
Pyro's Take:
Kansas City spent their vacation money on Cassel, so a negative X-ray or two was certainly worth the effort. Cassel's availability for the final preseason game is in question, but he should be fine for Week 1 of the regular season.
Washington Redskins RB Clinton Portis won't be playing in the Redskins final preseason game according to coach Jim Zorn. Portis is dealing with a bruised rib right now, and though the injury is not serious, the 'Skins don't feel the need to risk it.
Pyro's Take:
Portis had a great camp up to this point, but his work hasn't translated over to the games as he has rushed the ball 11 times for just 34 yards with no catches.
Yahoo sports is reporting that Cassel has a sprained MCL and will likely miss some time in the regular season - possibly 2-4 weeks.
Pyro's Take:
You can assume from this that the Chiefs are no longer shopping Tyler Thigpen. It doesn't appear that Pioli and Haley are doing any better than their predecessors from a decision-making standpoint. The Chiefs are going to be terrible on both sides of the ball again this season.
Kyle Orton was 9-of-16 for 96 yards in Sunday's game against the Bears before being forced to leave with a cut index finger.
Pyro's Take:
The cut didn't look severe enough that he should end up missing any regular season games - we will update here if it's reported that he should. The Bears and Cutler clearly got the better end of this first matchup.
Buccaneers WR Michael Clayton returned to practice on Monday after dealing with a hamstring injury for much of the preseason.
Pyro's Take:
Clayton has missed a bunch of game and practice time this past month and will need the next two weeks to get in sync with starting QB Byron Leftwich. Before the injury he may have been worth a late-round flier, but currently is no more than a waiver wire pickup.
Atlanta Falcons RB Jerious Norwood suffered a knee injury in Saturday's game against the Chargers. The injury is not considered serious as Norwood is being listed as being day-to-day.
Pyro's Take:
The Falcons need Norwood to be healthy this year in their efforts to keep Michael Turner strong throughout the season. Norwood was allowed back on the sidelines Saturday night with a plastic airbag taped around the knee, which the Falcons wouldn't have let happen if there was anything to be concerned about.
New England RB Sammy Morris was back practicing with the team on Monday after being absent with an undisclosed injury the past three weeks. He was wearing a red non-contact jersey during drills.
Pyro's Take:
With the logjam at the running back position, Morris doesn't seem to figure in the high-powered offense as much this year, but it's nice to have him back practicing nonetheless.
At this point, New Orleans Saints RB Reggie Bush is scheduled to get some playing time Thursday night against the Dolphins. "I'm hopeful that we can get him some work like we did Lance (Moore against the Raiders)," coach Sean Payton said. "I am confident that he has gotten plenty of work in the practices, but I'd like to see him get some work in this game, maybe a quarter if it's possible. We'll just see where he's at, and if not, we just have to be judicious as we bring him back in."
Pyro's Take:
Reggie's injury history reads more like the devil's Christmas wish list than anything else, and that's just in the past year. What good it would do to play Bush in the preseason game Thursday night and risk further injury is beyond us, but the fact is, he will get injured again this year. The Saints should wait until a real game to have it happen though.
Baltimore Ravens WR Mark Clayton is not expected to play in the final preseason game Thursday night against Atlanta. Clayton had returned to practice last week after recovering from a hamstring injury suffered August 2nd, but was held out of the last preseason game as well.
Pyro's Take:
The Ravens would be wise to keep Clayton on the bench Thursday night as their WR corps is already thin and gimpy behind him and Derrick Mason.
Buffalo Bills WR Terrell Owens was back at practice on Monday after sitting out the majority of August with a toe injury. TO said that he's not worried about the injury lingering and that it must have been caused by the type of shoe he was wearing.
Pyro's Take:
Well that's a new one. We thought TO had blamed just about everyone and everything possible for his daily problems, but stand corrected as it MUST have been the shoes this time. Owens did practice without any limitations on Monday, so the Bills must have ponied up for a new pair of loafers for the guy.
This is what the Detroit Lions had to say about Culpepper's injury: "Detroit Lions QB Daunte Culpepper sustained a minor cut to his toe at his home Saturday evening. The injury, which required eight stitches, is not considered serious. Culpepper will not practice today and his status for Thursday's game will be determined later this week."
Pyro's Take:
We knew Culpepper would eventually fold under the pressure, we just thought it would be in an actual game and not playing it on his X-box. Let's hope Stafford is more into Yahtzee or pillow fighting.
Carolina Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart missed practice again on Monday, but this time it was due to personal reasons instead of the Achilles injury he's been battling most of August.
Pyro's Take:
The Panthers have been doing their best to keep quiet about the injury, so it's possible Stewart was out getting a second opinion concerning his ongoing Achilles problem. The further this situation gets stretched out, the more we have to bump Stewart down and Mike Goodson up in our rankings. Keep a close eye on this situation and be ready to grab the rookie Goodson as your handcuff to DeAngelo on draft day.
Carolina Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart missed practice again on Monday, but this time it was due to personal reasons instead of the Achilles injury he's been battling most of August.
Pyro's Take:
The Panthers have been doing their best to keep quiet about the injury, so it's possible Stewart was out getting a second opinion concerning his ongoing Achilles problem. The further this situation gets stretched out, the more we have to bump Stewart down and Mike Goodson up in our rankings. Keep a close eye on this situation and be ready to grab the rookie Goodson as your handcuff to DeAngelo on draft day.
New York Jets rookie RB Shonn Greene was back at practice on Monday despite coach Rex Ryan saying two weeks ago that Greene would miss the remainder of the preseason.
Pyro's Take:
Coaches like to play it safe when speaking to the media, so it's really no surprise that Greene is back sooner than expected. The Jets third-round pick will likely be used in short-yardage situations this year, so don't expect him to play in their final preseason game so as not to re-aggravate the rib injury.
Cleveland Browns RB Jerome Harrison was back at practice on Monday wearing a brace on his left knee. Harrison, who has been sidelined the past few weeks with an undisclosed injury, had no problem participating in 11-on-11 drills.
Pyro's Take:
The Browns look to be shaky at the RB position heading into Week 1 of the regular season. Jamal Lewis is over the hill and showing it, while Harrison has been injured for most of the preseason. Rookie James Davis is the one guy taking advantage of the situation and should be bumped up in rankings across the board.
St. Louis Rams starting QB Marc Bulger, who is recovering from a broken pinkie finger, threw around 30 passes in practice on Monday and took some snaps from the shotgun position, but still is not under center taking direct snaps yet.
Pyro's Take:
“If we had a game tomorrow, I could play,” Bulger said. We suspected as much, but the Rams will still probably play it safe and sit their starting QB the rest of the preseason. Nothing has changed concerning your draft as Bulger was waiver wire material before the injury and still remains that way.
After spraining his ankle in the first preseason game, Cincinnati Bengals starting QB Carson Palmer was finally back at practice throwing passes to his receivers, something he hasn't done since sustaining the injury August 14th.
Pyro's Take:
Palmer was seen taking snaps and dropping back in the pocket without any problem on his sprained left ankle. Head coach Marvin Lewis also exclaimed after practice that it's possible Palmer sees a bit of action in the final preseason game Thursday.
Minnesota Vikings WR Bernard Berrian came out with the team for pregame warmups, but put his street clothes back on for the start of the game.
Pyro's Take:
Berrian has been recovering from the hamstring injury he sustained three weeks ago and the Vikings likely did not want to risk aggravating it further.
Philadelphia Eagles starting QB Donovan McNabb will sit out the team's final preseason game Thursday night against the Jets.
Pyro's Take:
The Eagles already know what they're getting out of McNabb this year, so why take the chance on an injury. Coach Andy Reid said that Kevin Kolb will start instead of McNabb and Michael Vick will start the second half.
Philadelphia Eagles starting QB Donovan McNabb will sit out the team's final preseason game Thursday night against the Jets.
Pyro's Take:
The Eagles already know what they're getting out of McNabb this year, so why take the chance on an injury. Coach Andy Reid said that Kevin Kolb will start instead of McNabb and Michael Vick will start the second half.
Philadelphia Eagles starting QB Donovan McNabb will sit out the team's final preseason game Thursday night against the Jets.
Pyro's Take:
The Eagles already know what they're getting out of McNabb this year, so why take the chance on an injury. Coach Andy Reid said that Kevin Kolb will start instead of McNabb and Michael Vick will start the second half.
The Kansas City Chiefs placed RB Kolby Smith on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list on Tuesday. Smith will be eligible to return in Week 7 of the regular season.
Pyro's Take:
Smith had been busy rehabbing from a knee injury he suffered last season and never got to fully practice with the team. He wouldn't have been useful this year regardless of the news.
New England Patriots WR Wes Welker was sidelined at practice once again on Tuesday. Welker also missed the Patriots last preseason game due to an undisclosed injury.
Pyro's Take:
As instructed by dictator-overlord Bill Belichick, Welker kept mum as to what the injury was and how severe it is. Welker also said that he hopes to be ready for the season opener, but just him saying that has us nervous. We'll keep you posted as any info comes across.
Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said after practice on Tuesday that rookie QB Matthew Stafford would start the preseason finale against the Bills on Thursday.
Pyro's Take:
With Daunte Culpepper recovering from a cut he sustained on his foot at home Saturday night, and Drew Stanton likely having arthroscopic surgery on Wednesday to repair torn cartilage in his left knee, the coaches have no choice but to start Stafford Thursday night. Though coach Schwartz claims he hasn't made a decision who will start Week 1 yet, we have to think that Culpepper's recent dumbass injury (that required eight stitches by the way) paves the way for the Stafford regime to begin.
Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said after practice on Tuesday that rookie QB Matthew Stafford would start the preseason finale against the Bills on Thursday.
Pyro's Take:
With Daunte Culpepper recovering from a cut he sustained on his foot at home Saturday night, and Drew Stanton likely having arthroscopic surgery on Wednesday to repair torn cartilage in his left knee, the coaches have no choice but to start Stafford Thursday night. Though coach Schwartz claims he hasn't made a decision who will start Week 1 yet, we have to think that Culpepper's recent dumbass injury (that required eight stitches by the way) paves the way for the Stafford regime to begin.
Joining rookie Knowshon Moreno back at practice on Tuesday was Denver Broncos RB LaMont Jordan. Jordan was out all of last week dealing with a leg injury.
Pyro's Take:
Jordan may be back with the team, but the question is for how long? With first-round draft pick Moreno now back, Peyton Hillis running well, and Correll Buckhalter the current starter, Jordan would seem to be the odd man out. We'll see how the always crowded Denver backfield shakes out in the coming week.
Joining rookie Knowshon Moreno back at practice on Tuesday was Denver Broncos RB LaMont Jordan. Jordan was out all of last week dealing with a leg injury.
Pyro's Take:
Jordan may be back with the team, but the question is for how long? With first-round draft pick Moreno now back, Peyton Hillis running well, and Correll Buckhalter the current starter, Jordan would seem to be the odd man out. We'll see how the always crowded Denver backfield shakes out in the coming week.
Joining rookie Knowshon Moreno back at practice on Tuesday was Denver Broncos RB LaMont Jordan. Jordan was out all of last week dealing with a leg injury.
Pyro's Take:
Jordan may be back with the team, but the question is for how long? With first-round draft pick Moreno now back, Peyton Hillis running well, and Correll Buckhalter the current starter, Jordan would seem to be the odd man out. We'll see how the always crowded Denver backfield shakes out in the coming week.
Joining rookie Knowshon Moreno back at practice on Tuesday was Denver Broncos RB LaMont Jordan. Jordan was out all of last week dealing with a leg injury.
Pyro's Take:
Jordan may be back with the team, but the question is for how long? With first-round draft pick Moreno now back, Peyton Hillis running well, and Correll Buckhalter the current starter, Jordan would seem to be the odd man out. We'll see how the always crowded Denver backfield shakes out in the coming week.
Oakland Raiders RB Justin Fargas was still on the sidelines during practice on Tuesday. Fargas has been recovering from a hamstring injury the past two weeks.
Pyro's Take:
Fargas was listed as the starting tailback on their first depth chart three weeks ago, but nobody in their right mind expected that to stick, injury or no injury. Expect Darren McFadden and Michael Bush to be ahead of Fargas in playing time come Week 1.
Cincinnati Bengals starting QB Carson Palmer will not play in Thursday's final preseason game in order to rest his sprained ankle and be ready for the season opener September 13th against the Broncos.
Pyro's Take:
Palmer also told people on Wednesday that his ankle was feeling the best it's felt since the injury. Although he could probably play Thursday if necessary, it's wise of the Bengals to sit him and wait for the regular season to get him going again.
The Dallas Cowboys experimented with the idea of RB Felix Jones returning punts this year, but instead will keep the electric Jones just on kickoff duties for now. "We've kind of ditched that a little bit because he's not comfortable catching them back there," special teams coach Joe DeCamillis said. "But as the season goes on, if he becomes more comfortable, we will. We're still going to work him there."
Pyro's Take:
We don't blame the Cowboys for doing all they can to get this kid on the field, but they might want to consider getting him more touches out of the backfield instead. Punt and kick returners are more exposed to injury than others, and a healthy Jones will be needed if the Cowboys want to make some noise this year.
Carolina Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart, who has been dealing with an Achilles injury for most of camp, is unlikely to be ready for Week 1 of the regular season. Stewart has currently missed 40 of the 48 practices the Panthers have had in 2009.
Pyro's Take:
Luckily the Panthers made a move in the off-season to soothe this sort of situation by drafting RB Mike Goodson in the fourth round. Goodson may not bring the power that the Panthers depend on out of Stewart, but he's shown himself to be more than capable in a backup role. It's time to boost DeAngelo Williams and Goodson up and drop Stewart a few spots on your cheat sheet.
Carolina Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart, who has been dealing with an Achilles injury for most of camp, is unlikely to be ready for Week 1 of the regular season. Stewart has currently missed 40 of the 48 practices the Panthers have had in 2009.
Pyro's Take:
Luckily the Panthers made a move in the off-season to soothe this sort of situation by drafting RB Mike Goodson in the fourth round. Goodson may not bring the power that the Panthers depend on out of Stewart, but he's shown himself to be more than capable in a backup role. It's time to boost DeAngelo Williams and Goodson up and drop Stewart a few spots on your cheat sheet.
The MRI taken on Jacksonville Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew's leg came back negative today, so his injury is just a bruise. The injury originally occurred during the first series of the exhibition game Thursday night against the Redskins.
Pyro's Take:
Jack Del Rio can untie the noose now as his money-maker is just fine. We'll bet MJD never plays another final preseason game snap for the rest of his career however. MJD fantasy owners can feel free to put away the harakiri knives as well.
St. Louis Rams WR Donnie Avery came back from a fractured foot to play in the first two series of Thursday night's game against the Chiefs. Though he didn't catch a pass, he looked just fine and should be ready for Week 1.
Pyro's Take:
The injury, was sustained on August 7th and was supposed to keep him out 4-6 weeks. If Donnie fell to you later on in your draft, you should be getting great value out of your pick. If you haven't drafted yet, boost him back up on your cheat sheet.
Green Bay Packers backup RB Brandon Jackson was still being held out of practice on Monday after missing the past week and a half due to an ankle injury.
Pyro's Take:
If Jackson isn't healthy enough to practice this week, DeShawn Wynn will move into the backup role for Sunday's opening game against the Bears. Ryan Grant may end up with a few more carries than expected in Week 1.
Green Bay Packers backup RB Brandon Jackson was still being held out of practice on Monday after missing the past week and a half due to an ankle injury.
Pyro's Take:
If Jackson isn't healthy enough to practice this week, DeShawn Wynn will move into the backup role for Sunday's opening game against the Bears. Ryan Grant may end up with a few more carries than expected in Week 1.
Tennessee Titans WR Nate Washington, who was recovering from a hamstring injury suffered on August 24th, returned to practice Monday on a limited basis.
Pyro's Take:
Washington claims that he is better than 80 percent at this point, and would love to play a limited number of snaps against the Steelers on Thursday if cleared. The Titans want to start the season off with a win, but will they risk further injuring their most talented receiver to get it? “I haven’t ruled him out for the game," head coach Jeff Fisher said. “So we’ll just have to see how he is."
Our guess is he's sitting. Either way, don't start him this week against a tough Pittsburgh D.
Cleveland Browns backup RB Jerome Harrison was practicing with his teammates again on Monday. Harrison, who had been sidelined with an undisclosed injury for most of camp, was wearing a brace on his left knee.
Pyro's Take:
Harrison is still listed on the latest team depth chart as the backup RB, but we're not sure how long that will last. Rookie James Davis has been awesome this preseason, and may end up with the starting job at some point with Jamal Lewis declining rapidly. Harrison may actually end up as the backup to Davis here.
Even though he missed most of camp with a thigh injury, Detroit Lions rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew still looks like he will be the starter in Week 1.
Pyro's Take:
This isn't a surprise as Pettigrew has the most talent and upside of any other TE on the Lions roster. He's a great blocker to run behind and will be a huge target for rookie QB Matthew Stafford to dump off to when in trouble. His potential alone makes him a fringe backup fantasy TE this year.
Absent yet again from practice on Monday was Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Anquan Boldin. Boldin missed the last two preseason games with a pulled right hamstring.
Pyro's Take:
Head coach Ken Whisenhunt said when asked about Boldin's injury that he will be evaluated as the week goes on. The Cards don't get back to practice until Wednesday, the heaviest work day of the week, so what happens that day will tell us a lot more about Boldin's injury than anything else. We'll keep you updated on the situation as we find out.
Denver Broncos wide receiver Jabar Gaffney practiced with an orange non-contact jersey on this Tuesday after injuring his thumb at practice just over a week ago. He was supposed to be out for "several weeks", but the injury seems to not be as serious as once thought.
Pyro's Take:
Gaffney likely won't play in Week 1, but could be ready for action in Week 2. Either way, he's waiver wire fodder.
The availability of Houston Texans wide receiver Kevin Walter for Sunday's game against the Jets is uncertain at this point. Walter has been dealing with a hamstring injury since the third preseason game.
Pyro's Take:
If Walter can't go, Andre Davis will step into the starting role for the week, which likely means triple-teams for Andre Johnson. Walter isn't quite a fantasy starter, but can be a real nice plug-in player when your studs are on their bye weeks. He'll be back sooner than later, and since you probably wouldn't have been starting him anyway (unless you got screwed at the WR position in your draft), there aren't any worries here.
The availability of Houston Texans wide receiver Kevin Walter for Sunday's game against the Jets is uncertain at this point. Walter has been dealing with a hamstring injury since the third preseason game.
Pyro's Take:
If Walter can't go, Andre Davis will step into the starting role for the week, which likely means triple-teams for Andre Johnson. Walter isn't quite a fantasy starter, but can be a real nice plug-in player when your studs are on their bye weeks. He'll be back sooner than later, and since you probably wouldn't have been starting him anyway (unless you got screwed at the WR position in your draft), there aren't any worries here.
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Deion Branch missed practice on Wednesday dealing with a hamstring injury.
Pyro's Take:
Wait, Branch is injured? We don't believe it. It just can't be so.
Rookie receiver Deon Butler is a better option anyway at this point, so the Seahawks just lucked out.
Even though Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Anquan Boldin didn't play in the final two preseason games and has been missing practices, coach Ken Whisenhunt said the chances of Boldin playing Sunday "are very good." "I think we've got a history with 'Q'," he said. "That's why I have a good feeling about him playing."
Pyro's Take:
We believe Boldin will be playing as well, but will most likely be held back in terms of the number of snaps he takes just to make sure he's through his hamstring injury. We'll update you with more news on Quan the closer it gets to Sunday.
Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart was back at practice working with the team without restrictions after missing a month of the preseason due to an Achilles injury. It also looks like he will be playing in Week 1.
“We just didn't want it to be a month during the regular season,” coach John Fox said. “The good news is it was a month during the preseason. That was the plan, and if we had our druthers, that is the way we'd prefer it.”
Pyro's Take:
From what it sounds like, Stewart will be a go for Week 1 against Philly. Whether that means he'll play one series or 30 snaps, we won't know until Sunday, but we're guessing somewhere in between. After missing a month of contact like he has, we can't imagine he's in that good of game condition yet. Hold off on playing him for at least the first week, and possibly one or two beyond that.
Philadelphia Eagles running back Brian Westbrook was not listed on the Eagles Week 1 injury report despite missing all of preseason recovering from off-season ankle surgery.
Pyro's Take:
Westbrook will get the starting nod, as expected, and should be rolling right out of the gates. He will most likely be getting a full work load against the Panthers on Sunday, which means a bunch of good fantasy stats as Carolina was very susceptible to the run last year. Start him if you got him.
Tennessee Titans tight end Bo Scaife left Thursday night's game with a knee injury in the third quarter.
Pyro's Take:
On the play, Scaife caught a pass near the sidelines when James Harrison tackled him at the knees, buckling Scaife and pushing his knee inwards. He was on the sidelines with an ice-bag on his knee well into the fourth quarter, so it doesn't look like he will return tonight.
Barring a setback over the next day and a half, Denver Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton will start the game under center against the Bengals on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Orton has been working with the first-team offense in practice all week wearing a glove to protect his dislocated right index finger. Whether or not he'll be wearing the glove on Sunday is unknown, but Orton is said to be throwing the ball with his normal zip regardless. He's still not a great play this week due to the injury and the Brandon Marshall situation.
Tennessee Titans tight end Bo Scaife had an MRI taken on his knee on Friday after getting injured in Thursday night's regular season opening game. The MRI showed that the injury is not serious and Scaife is now listed as day-to-day.
Pyro's Take:
Scaife was having a nice game until the injury, mostly due to the Titans inability to rush the ball effectively and having to turn to the pass. Whether or not Scaife will play in next week's game is uncertain right now, but we'll keep you posted throughout the week.
New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker (knee) was limited in practice on Friday. We won't know how the Patriots will have him listed for the game Monday night until they issue their injury report, which comes out tomorrow.
Pyro's Take:
We suspect that Welker will play, but he might not be as involved in the team's game plan as usual due to his missed practice time. He could still be used as a WR3 this week, but if you have other options on your fantasy squad, you might want to consider those instead.
Houston Texans wide receiver Kevin Walter (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Jets and will be a game-time decision after not practicing on Friday.
Pyro's Take:
Walter would have had a nice match-up this week and could have started for fantasy teams as a WR3, but in light of the news that he didn't practice Friday, we'd suggest staying away from him altogether this week.
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Anthony Gonzalez left the game in the first quarter with an apparent knee injury.
Pyro's Take:
We couldn't tell exactly what happened as he went down without being hit on the play. He had trouble putting pressure on the leg as he was coming off the field. We'll keep you updated on the situation as we find out.
Philadephia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb broke his ribs during a TD run in the third quarter. How long he'll be out for is in question as the team will be taking more tests tomorrow to determine just how bad the injury is.
Pyro's Take:
Head coach Andy Reid didn't say too much about the injury and downplayed the extent of it when he did. We'll see just how bad it is later in the week, but it's obvious the Eagles need McNabb as healthy as possible because Vick is still suspended and Kevin Kolb is plain awful.
An MRI taken on the left foot of Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks revealed that he did not sustain an injury to the Lisfranc joint and should only be out 2-3 weeks with a foot sprain.
Pyro's Take:
The Giants throw out a WRBC (wide receiver by committee), which dilutes the fantasy impact Nicks will have this year, but it's clear that Nicks is the most talented of the bunch. If a couple of the other receivers happen to go down before Nicks comes back from his injury, he could be worth your time. Otherwise, don't take the week-to-week chance on him.
Dallas Cowboys coach Wade Phillips said on Monday that running back Felix Jones suffered a thigh bruise in the first half of Sunday's game and that the injury was why Jones didn't get as many touches as was planned.
Pyro's Take:
Here we go again. Felix may be one of the better playmakers in the game, but the constant injury trouble has to have fantasy owners concerned. We hope you handcuffed him to Marion Barber as Barber's value just shot back up again with this latest injury news.
Dallas Cowboys coach Wade Phillips said on Monday that running back Felix Jones suffered a thigh bruise in the first half of Sunday's game and that the injury was why Jones didn't get as many touches as was planned.
Pyro's Take:
Here we go again. Felix may be one of the better playmakers in the game, but the constant injury trouble has to have fantasy owners concerned. We hope you handcuffed him to Marion Barber as Barber's value just shot back up again with this latest injury news.
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo injured his ankle in the third quarter of Week 1 action against the Bucs, but didn't miss a play because of it. Tests are scheduled for Monday.
Pyro's Take:
Romo was seen limping after the game, but he didn't need crutches and said that the ankle will be just fine. We'll keep you posted on the injury and at this point, it looks like he'll be fine for next week's game against the Giants.
Updating a news-breaker from earlier today, the MRI taken on the ankle of Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo showed no structural damage. The injury is a normal sprain and he should be able to start next week's game against the Giants.
Pyro's Take:
Romo had a fantasy dream debut to the 2009 season and all systems look to be a go for Week 2. The match-up isn't nearly as favorable as last week's, but the Giants secondary is a little banged up so Romo should be able to put up some good fantasy numbers once again. We'll keep you posted on any changes to his status throughout the week.
Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew wore a wrap around his right forearm, wrist and hand when he spoke to the media on Monday. He did not say a word about the injury when asked.
Pyro's Take:
We assume that MJD was just icing down the normal wear and tear a running back receives on game day. His debut as the undisputed Jaguar workhorse was as expected, especially considering the Jags were playing from behind most of the game. We'll let you know if there's anything more to the wrapped arm throughout the week.
Chris Mortensen of ESPN is reporting that the Indianapolis Colts will be meeting with team doctors tonight to discuss the injury to Anthony Gonzalez's knee and that the team is bracing itself for a lengthy absence from their No. 2 wide receiver.
Pyro's Take:
Colts coach Jim Caldwell will have his hands full trying to fill the vacancy and will have to depend on either second-year wide-out Pierre Garcon or rookie Austin Collie to fill the role. Look for Collie to stay in the slot as the WR3 and Garcon to man the WR2 until the team comes up with a different plan. Marvin Harrison's number should still be lurking in the team Rolodex, right?
Chris Mortensen of ESPN is reporting that the Indianapolis Colts will be meeting with team doctors tonight to discuss the injury to Anthony Gonzalez's knee and that the team is bracing itself for a lengthy absence from their No. 2 wide receiver.
Pyro's Take:
Colts coach Jim Caldwell will have his hands full trying to fill the vacancy and will have to depend on either second-year wide-out Pierre Garcon or rookie Austin Collie to fill the role. Look for Collie to stay in the slot as the WR3 and Garcon to man the WR2 until the team comes up with a different plan. Marvin Harrison's number should still be lurking in the team Rolodex, right?
Chris Mortensen of ESPN is reporting that the Indianapolis Colts will be meeting with team doctors tonight to discuss the injury to Anthony Gonzalez's knee and that the team is bracing itself for a lengthy absence from their No. 2 wide receiver.
Pyro's Take:
Colts coach Jim Caldwell will have his hands full trying to fill the vacancy and will have to depend on either second-year wide-out Pierre Garcon or rookie Austin Collie to fill the role. Look for Collie to stay in the slot as the WR3 and Garcon to man the WR2 until the team comes up with a different plan. Marvin Harrison's number should still be lurking in the team Rolodex, right?
Updating a previous report, Indianapolis Colts team president Bill Polian said on his Monday evening radio show regarding Anthony Gonzalez's knee injury that "there is some sprained ligaments and we know that it isn't year-ending."
Pyro's Take:
Gonzalez, however, isn't likely to be back within the next month or so as the team also stated that they would go out and sign a veteran wide receiver if the injury was going to cost Gonzalez more than four weeks. "We could add a veteran receiver," Polian said. "We'll talk about that tonight or tomorrow."
Polian also said that the veteran will not be Marvin Harrison. We'll keep you updated on who is trying out for the Colts later this week.
San Diego Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson rolled his ankle on a play in which he fumbled the ball for the first time in 987 touches Monday night.
Pyro's Take:
The injury isn't a concern, but LT21 starting to look his age is. It seems like the Chargers may go with a RBBC from here on out as Darren Sproles and Tomlinson each got 14 touches in the game. We hope you did the right thing in your fantasy draft and handcuffed these two guys together.
Stay classy, San Diego.
San Diego Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson rolled his ankle on a play in which he fumbled the ball for the first time in 987 touches Monday night.
Pyro's Take:
The injury isn't a concern, but LT21 starting to look his age is. It seems like the Chargers may go with a RBBC from here on out as Darren Sproles and Tomlinson each got 14 touches in the game. We hope you did the right thing in your fantasy draft and handcuffed these two guys together.
Stay classy, San Diego.
New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker (knee) had 12 catches for 93 yards Monday night despite only being on the field for 62 of the 81 offensive snaps.
Pyro's Take:
To put his work in perspective, Randy Moss had the same amount of catches while being on the field for 80 of 81 snaps. Welker seems to be over his injury and is a safe play as a fantasy WR2 going forward.
Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew had 26 touches in the game against the Colts on Sunday while his backup, Rashad Jennings, had zero.
Pyro's Take:
MJD is an every-down back, and there's no reason he won't be going forward. The only reason to have Jennings handcuffed to Jones-Drew is in case of injury.
Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew had 26 touches in the game against the Colts on Sunday while his backup, Rashad Jennings, had zero.
Pyro's Take:
MJD is an every-down back, and there's no reason he won't be going forward. The only reason to handcuff Jennings to Jones-Drew at this point is in case of injury.
Green Bay Packers kicker Mason Crosby was limited in practice on Wednesday due to an abdominal injury.
Pyro's Take:
The Packers haven't said anything yet about the injury, nor have they approached any free agent kickers yet about signing them for a week. We'll update you with any news that comes across.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel has lost his limp, but the Chiefs will remain cautious with him. "I haven't talked to the doctors. But to my eye, he was improved some from last week," coach Todd Haley said. "There are medical issues involved when an injury occurs. There are certain times that things take. But the player is doing everything under his power to be ready."
Pyro's Take:
It's still up in the air as to whether or not Cassel will play on Sunday, but if he does, he might be worth considering for a fantasy start as the Chiefs play the Raiders in KC. We'll keep you updated.
Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart was held out of practice today to rest his Achilles. However, coach John Fox did say on Wednesday that Stewart did not re-aggravate the injury.
Pyro's Take:
We'll presume, for now, that sitting Stewart today was just a precaution. He got in a good load of work last Sunday and seems to be fine going forward. We'll update you with any changes throughout the week.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Antonio Bryant, who re-aggravated his knee injury during the game on Sunday, was absent from the Bucs practice on Wednesday. The team has him listed as day-to-day for now.
Pyro's Take:
The Bucs are going to have to handle their star receiver with kiddie gloves this year if they expect his surgically repaired knee to hold up. His status for Sunday's game against the Bills is unknown right now.
New Orleans Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey was held out of practice on Wednesday to deal with an ankle injury.
Pyro's Take:
Shockey missed practice last week with the same issue, but it didn't seem to affect him on Sunday. He'll be good to go for your fantasy team in Week 2.
Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson was limited in practice on Wednesday because of a groin injury.
Pyro's Take:
Jackson only came down with two catches for nine yards on Sunday, but he also had two rushes for 33 yards and an 85-yard punt return for a TD. How he got injured, we don't know, but it seems mild and we'll update you on any changes to that throughout the week. He should be a good fantasy play this week in an expected shootout with the Saints.
Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb sat out practice yet again on Thursday and will likely miss the rest of the week mending his broken rib.
Pyro's Take:
This isn't a surprise with an injury like that. McNabb will be a game-day decision on Sunday, but even if he does play, we'd suggest looking elsewhere for your fantasy starter this week.
Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall exclaimed on Thursday that he believes his surgically repaired hip was 100 percent healthy awhile ago.
Pyro's Take:
It's good to see that Marshall isn't blaming his poor play last Sunday on an injury of any kind. The Broncos play the Browns this Sunday, so feel free to keep Marshall in your fantasy lineup despite his outing in Week 1.
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Limas Sweed missed practice on Thursday with a foot injury. Sweed suffered the injury while practicing on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
Sweed was already starting to fall behind rookie Mike Wallace for the WR3 job, so the injury couldn't come at a worse time for the 6'5" wideout. Don't give up on him yet, but stash him deep at the end of your fantasy bench for now.
Texans wide receiver Kevin Walter was still limited at practice on Thursday as he continues to recover from his hamstring injury.
Pyro's Take:
Walter was inactive for the game last week against the Jets, but his status for this week's game is still up in the air. Check back later on to find out what to do with him fantasy-wise this week.
San Diego Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson missed a second straight day of practice on Thursday with a bad ankle.
Pyro's Take:
There hasn't been much said about the severity of LT's ankle injury, but he'll likely go down as questionable for the game on Sunday. Even if he does play, not only will he be splitting carries with Darren Sproles and Michael Bennett, but he'll also playing against the Ravens D. Sit him down for a week.
The Indianapolis Colts picked up wide receiver Hank Baskett to fill the hole created in the WR corps by Anthony Gonzalez's injury.
Pyro's Take:
Hank will start as the WR4 behind Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie, but he could move into the WR2 slot before long. Garcon is inexperienced, and Collie is mainly a slot guy, so the 6'4" target that Baskett is could be what Manning needs to keep his offensive machine rolling. He's worth a pickup in any case.
The Indianapolis Colts picked up wide receiver Hank Baskett to fill the hole created in the WR corps by Anthony Gonzalez's injury.
Pyro's Take:
Hank will start as the WR4 behind Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie, but he could move into the WR2 slot before long. Garcon is inexperienced, and Collie is mainly a slot guy, so the 6'4" target that Baskett is could be what Manning needs to keep his offensive machine rolling. He's worth a pickup in any case.
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings returned to fully participate in practice on Thursday and will start against the Bengals on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Jennings was just taking it easy with the wrist injury and is just fine going into this Sunday's match-up against Cinci. Start him at all costs.
Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart went through a normal practice on Friday and is good to go for the game against the Falcons on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Stewart seems to have gotten through the Achilles injury he suffered in the preseason and is a safe bet to start getting his normal touches again. Feel free to start him as a low-end RB2 or flex this week.
Falcons running back Jerious Norwood left the game against the Saints today in the second quarter with an apparent head injury. His return is questionable.
Pyro's Take:
Norwood shouldn't have been starting for your team unless you are in a 16-team fantasy league anyway.
Eagles coach Andy Reid said on Monday that wide receiver DeSean Jackson is considered day-to-day with the groin injury he re-aggravated in the game against the Saints on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Why Jackson is still on punt returns is beyond us, but we're guessing he won't be anymore. He should be fine by next week's game, but we'll keep you updated on his status throughout the week.
Eagles running back Brian Westbrook is day-to-day with a right ankle sprain, though coach Andy Reid said that the injury will not require an MRI.
Pyro's Take:
The bothersome part is that the injury is to the same ankle that Westy just had off-season surgery on. The ankle doesn't seem to be that bad as of now, but we doubt he'll be practicing all week and could end up being a game-time decision next Sunday.
As stated by Profootballtalk.com, Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Troy Williamson is expected to be out for the year with an arm/shoulder injury.
Pyro's Take:
The former 2005 first-round pick was looking to turn his career around with an amazing preseason, but now will have to wait till next year to get the chance. Mike Sims-Walker, who was already starting to take back his WR2 job, will be in the starting lineup for the Jags moving forward and should be considered a decent fantasy pickup if he's still on the waiver wire.
As stated by Profootballtalk.com, Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Troy Williamson is expected to be out for the year with an arm/shoulder injury.
Pyro's Take:
The former 2005 first-round pick was looking to turn his career around with an amazing preseason, but now will have to wait till next year to get the chance. Mike Sims-Walker, who was already starting to take back his WR2 job, will be in the starting lineup for the Jags moving forward and should be considered a decent fantasy pickup if he's still on the waiver wire.
When asked what the reason was behind his inaccuracy, whether his shoulder or rust had anything to do with it, Patriots quarterback Tom Brady said “I just think it has to do with poor technique... I’ve got to improve on that. I’m going to do everything I can to work on it. I always feel being an accurate passer is really like a good golf swing."
Pyro's Take:
Our guess is that his knee injury is still in his head a little bit. The slightest hesitation on a throw or throwing the ball too soon can make all the difference. It might take him a bit to work it all out, but count on him being just fine.
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner was pulled from the game on Sunday by coach Ken Whisenhunt because Warner informed him that he had re-aggravated a right shoulder injury.
Pyro's Take:
Kurt should be fine going into next week's game against the Colts. If the game were closer on Sunday, Warner would have stayed in, so it's probably not much to worry about. Keep him in your fantasy lineup until informed otherwise.
Saints wide receiver Lance Moore was pulled from the Week 2 win over the Eagles with a strained hamstring, but the injury is not as bad as the team thought it might be. He could be ready to go for Week 3 against Buffalo.
Pyro's Take:
It seems the bloom is certainly off the rose with this guy, as Moore didn't have any catches before being pulled in Week 2 and had just two catches while healthy in Week 1. Still, keep him on your fantasy bench for now, as anyone in a Saints uniform can eventually be useful.
When asked about his rib injury and his status for next week, Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck said, "What I have is a painful injury, but I have definitely woken up on a Monday feeling worse... I'm absolutely hoping to play."
Pyro's Take:
We'll wait and see if he practices this week to say anything definitive, but you shouldn't be starting the guy anyway. He's a fantasy backup at best.
The MRI that Saints running back Mike Bell had taken on his right knee Monday showed no structural damage and the injury is said to be a sprained MCL.
Pyro's Take:
It's early in the week, so the Saints have no idea whether Bell will be available or not to play on Sunday. The news is good for fantasy owners as things could have been a lot worse.
Chargers coach Norv Turner is holding out hope that running back LaDainian Tomlinson will be able to play in Week 3, but is preparing the team as if he won't be. He also did not have any news on the progress of LT's ankle injury.
Pyro's Take:
It would be nice to have Tomlinson available against the Dolphins next Sunday as the running game never really got going with Sproles last week. We'll update you on the situation as it progresses throughout the week.
NBC 5 in Dallas-Ft. Worth's Newy Scruggs reported on Tuesday that Cowboys running back Marion Barber will be out 1-2 weeks with the quadriceps injury he suffered on Sunday night.
Pyro's Take:
The news has not been confirmed in any way, so take this assessment with a grain of salt. If it is true, Felix Jones becomes a very nice fantasy play next Monday against the porous Carolina D. We'll keep you updated as the news comes in.
NBC 5 in Dallas-Ft. Worth's Newy Scruggs reported on Tuesday that Cowboys running back Marion Barber will be out 1-2 weeks with the quadriceps injury he suffered on Sunday night.
Pyro's Take:
The news has not been confirmed in any way, so take this assessment with a grain of salt. If it is true, Felix Jones becomes a very nice fantasy play next Monday against the porous Carolina D. We'll keep you updated as the news comes in.
The Dallas Cowboys made a move today adding running back Chauncey Washington to the practice squad. The move was finally made after putting a waiver wire claim in on him two weeks ago.
Pyro's Take:
This move may or may have something to do with Barber's quad injury, but that's not necessarily the case seeing that their claim was put in two weeks ago. However, it's interesting that they didn't sign him to the practice squad until today. We'll keep you posted on Barber's injury.
The Dallas Cowboys made a move today adding running back Chauncey Washington to the practice squad. The move was finally made after putting a waiver wire claim in on him two weeks ago.
Pyro's Take:
This move may or may have something to do with Barber's quad injury, but that's not necessarily the case seeing that their claim was put in two weeks ago. However, it's interesting that they didn't sign him to the practice squad until today. We'll keep you posted on Barber's injury.
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Santonio Holmes was seen around the Steelers' facility on Monday with a large wrap on his left wrist and hand.
Pyro's Take:
Holmes was injured against the Bears on Sunday when he hit the ground and tried to support himself with his left hand. It shouldn't be a big deal, as it's probably just a little sore, but we'll keep you updated in case there's anything more to the injury.
If Cowboys running back Marion Barber (quad) is out for 1-2 weeks as reported, RB Tashard Choice could see a good amount of work beside Felix Jones for the next couple of weeks.
Pyro's Take:
It's possible Choice and Jones could get more touches anyway, as the Cowboys want to protect their workhorse Barber from further injury. As electric as Felix is, he could turn out to be a nice fantasy RB2 for this coming week, while Choice might be a pretty good flex play.
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Limas Sweed (foot injury) did some running today and will practice on Wednesday, though probably in a limited fashion according to coach Mike Tomlin.
Pyro's Take:
Was the absence of Limas last week the reason the Super Bowl champion Steelers lost to the Bears last week? If he comes back this week and the Steelers win out the rest of the year, we're going with Yes. Rookie Mike Wallace didn't do much as the replacement WR3 on Sunday.
Arizona Cardinals running back Tim Hightower leads the NFL in targets out of the backfield with 17 thus far, while Darren Sproles comes in a close second with 16.
Pyro's Take:
Sproles was already tabbed to take on a bigger role this season, but with Tomlinson out with a bum ankle, it's not unexpected to see the little guy targeted as much as he has been. Expect more of the same as the year moves along regardless of LT's injury.
Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson sat out practice again on Wednesday due to the ankle injury he suffered in Week 1.
Pyro's Take:
The Chargers aren't planning on LT21 being ready for the game this week against the Dolphins, so Darren Sproles is likely to carry the load once again. He's an option if you got him.
Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson sat out practice again on Wednesday due to the ankle injury he suffered in Week 1.
Pyro's Take:
The Chargers aren't planning on LT21 being ready for the game this week against the Dolphins, so Darren Sproles is likely to carry the load once again. Sit him if you got him.
Redskins running back Clinton Portis was limited in practice on Wednesday with an ankle injury.
Pyro's Take:
Clinton should be fine to play this Sunday, and look for him to push for a big fantasy day as the 'Skins play the Detroit Lions this week.
Vikings running back Adrian Peterson was limited in practice on Wednesday due to a back injury.
Pyro's Take:
Maybe if the Purple Jesus didn't have to carry the offense on his back so much, this wouldn't be a problem. Hey Favre, think you could go for a little more than the 132.5 yards/game you're currently at?
Peterson should be fine and ready to roll for your fantasy team again on Sunday.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Cadillac Williams was held out of practice Thursday morning for unknown reasons.
Pyro's Take:
Caddy played until the very last snap of last Sunday's game, so we're not quite sure where the injury came from. The resurgent back might just need a little rest, but we'll update you if there is anything more to this.
Vikings running back Adrian Peterson, who was limited in practice yesterday, said on Thursday that his back injury is "not a big deal at all".
Pyro's Take:
We didn't think it was, but still, any little scare with AP is a big scare to fantasy owners. He should be fine to go on Sunday against the 49ers, but we'll continue to update you on his back situation as the week rolls on.
Cleveland Browns running back Jamal Lewis was not on the field at the beginning of practice on Thursday after missing Wednesday's practice with a hamstring injury.
Pyro's Take:
Nobody in a league less than 32 teams would be starting Jamal anyway, but the news is still significant for those waiting to see rookie James Davis get his shot. Too bad it might be against a team (Ravens) that could end his career before it even starts.
Cleveland Browns running back Jamal Lewis was not on the field at the beginning of practice on Thursday after missing Wednesday's practice with a hamstring injury.
Pyro's Take:
Nobody in a league less than 32 teams would be starting Jamal anyway, but the news is still significant for those waiting to see rookie James Davis get his shot. Too bad it might be against a team (Ravens) that could end his career before it even starts.
Buccaneers running back Earnest Graham sat out practice on Thursday with a hamstring injury.
Pyro's Take:
Graham is pretty much insignificant in the fantasy world right now and would only accrue value if either Cadillac or Ward were to get injured.
Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry finally admitted that the strained quadriceps he suffered in the middle of preseason has been bothering him ever since. "It's been killing me. I can't really open up," Henry said. "I never had an injury like this ... I don't want to miss any time."
Pyro's Take:
Henry seems to have gotten his life in order, but that doesn't mean he got any smarter. If you have an injury that hampers your ability to do what you do best in the NFL, you should tell the coaches and rest until it gets better instead of hurting the team just trying to play.
When Henry is healthy, we fully expect him to regain his fantasy sleeper status, but not until then.
The Buffalo Bills placed tight end Derek Schouman on Injured Reserve with a knee injury on Tuesday.
Pyro's Take:
Though not a great fantasy player, Schouman was a good tight end for the Bills. This opens the door for rookie Shawn Nelson, who is a much better fantasy option than Schouman. Keep Nelson on your radar for a couple of weeks.
Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe was limited in practice today due to a leg injury, not an illness as originally thought. The specifics of the injury are unknown at this point.
Pyro's Take:
We don't think there is anything to worry about here, but keep checking back as we'll update the situation as it gets closer to game day. Consider it safe to keep him in your fantasy lineup for now.
Saints running back Mike Bell once again missed practice on Thursday dealing with the knee injury he suffered last Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
It's not looking good for Bell this Sunday, and maybe not for next weekend either. If the injury is along the lines of what Pierre Thomas was dealing with, the Saints might just keep Bell out until after their bye week in Week 5. Get him out of your fantasy lineup for now.
Saints wide receiver Lance Moore sat out practice again on Thursday as he works to recover from the hamstring injury he incurred last Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
The strain was said to not be as bad as originally thought, but with Lance sitting out practice again on Thursday, we doubt he'll be on the field come Sunday. He wasn't worth putting in your fantasy lineup yet anyway.
Bengals running back Cedric Benson returned to practice today in a limited fashion after missing Wednesday's practice with an ankle injury.
Pyro's Take:
Benson should be just fine as the injury he suffered in Week 2 was merely a tweak of the ankle. Keep him in your fantasy lineup as a low-end RB2 as the Bengals play the tough Steelers D on Sunday.
Jets coach Rex Ryan said that quarterback Mark Sanchez has a little tendinitis in his right knee, but it shouldn't affect his play on Sunday. "It's not that big a deal," Ryan said of Sanchez's knee. "He has something. I don't know how to describe it than just to say it's a little tendinitis. But he's fine."
Pyro's Take:
We're sure it's no big deal either, but the rookie is a big reason for the Jets 2-0 record thus far, so any injury news means something. He'll play on Sunday, but the Dirty One still shouldn't be considered a fantasy starter for awhile.
Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson (ankle) missed practice again on Thursday and is doubtful for this week's match-up against the Dolphins.
Pyro's Take:
The injury has taken much longer to return from than originally expected, and it looks like LT may even miss Week 4 as well so he can get healthy during the bye week in Week 5. If you have his handcuff (Sproles) on your team, consider him a decent fantasy play this weekend.
Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey was at practice in full on Thursday after limiting himself due to an ankle injury the previous two weeks.
Pyro's Take:
Shockey's done being a diva for now, but we'll see what he comes up with to skip practice next week. Regardless of his pussdom, he's a nice fantasy play this week against a Bills team that can't seem to cover tight ends.
Broncos rookie running back Knowshon Moreno did not participate in practice on Friday because of a groin injury and is now listed as questionable on the team's injury report.
Pyro's Take:
Moreno must have hurt himself at practice on Thursday as he had been practicing in full earlier this week. If Moreno is healthy enough to play, he has a chance to have his first big game as a pro against a shaky Oakland rush D.
Titans kicker Rob Bironas is listed as questionable on the team's injury report after missing practice Friday with a right ankle injury.
Pyro's Take:
The normally dependable Bironas is just 2-for-4 on field goals this year so far. Get him out of your fantasy lineup for a week just in case his ankle isn't quite up to snuff.
Redskins running back Clinton Portis has been declared active for Sunday's game against the Lions.
Pyro's Take:
Get Portis back into your fantasy lineup immediately if you took him out because of his minor ankle injury. He's a good bet to go ballistic today.
Packers running back Brandon Jackson has been declared inactive for the game against the Rams on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
This was expected as Jackson is still working to come back from his ankle injury. Ryan Grant should get a major load today against a crap Rams squad and should be a great fantasy start this week.
49ers running back Frank Gore re-aggravated his ankle injury on his first carry of the game. He was carted back to the locker room and his return is questionable at this point.
Pyro's Take:
Glen Coffee has taken over for Gore and will carry the load while Frank is tended to in the locker room. We'll update you on Gore's condition as the game moves along.
Detroit Lions running back Kevin Smith suffered a shoulder injury in the second half of the game against the Redskins on Sunday. Smith did not return to the field, and more tests are being done today to find out the significance of the injury.
Pyro's Take:
The Lions losing Smith for any amount of time would be huge, as the only other backs they have on the team are little Maurice Morris and rookie Aaron Brown. We'll update you on Smith's condition when the tests come back.
Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson told the media that he ended up taking a pain-masking injection before the game on Sunday so that he could play with his groin injury.
Pyro's Take:
No wonder he looked so fast on that 64-yard TD sprint he had in the 2nd quarter, and how he was able to do the splits in his celebration of that touchdown despite an injured groin.
He may be an idiot, but he's fantasy gold right now.
The 49ers and coach Mike Singletary continue to assure that running back Frank Gore's ankle injury is a "strain" and not a high ankle sprain as is being reported.
Pyro's Take:
Singletary also stated that the injury is "not believed to be serious" and that it is completely unrelated to the "sprain" he sustained a week ago. Check back later in the week for updates on the situation.
Cowboys running back Marion Barber has been declared inactive for tonight's game against the Panthers. Felix Jones will get the start in his place, with Tashard Choice acting as the backup.
Pyro's Take:
As much as Barber has been pleading to play all week, we didn't figure the Cowboys to be dumb enough to risk him furthering his thigh injury. Felix Jones should get the majority of the backfield workload with Choice relieving him from time to time.
Cowboys running back Marion Barber has been declared inactive for tonight's game against the Panthers. Felix Jones will get the start in his place, with Tashard Choice acting as the backup.
Pyro's Take:
As much as Barber has been pleading to play all week, we didn't figure the Cowboys to be dumb enough to risk him furthering his thigh injury. Felix Jones should get the majority of the backfield workload with Choice relieving him from time to time.
Cowboys running back Marion Barber has been declared inactive for tonight's game against the Panthers. Felix Jones will get the start in his place, with Tashard Choice acting as the backup.
Pyro's Take:
As much as Barber has been pleading to play all week, we didn't figure the Cowboys to be dumb enough to risk him furthering his thigh injury. Felix Jones should get the majority of the backfield workload with Choice relieving him from time to time.
Redskins running back Clinton Portis was pulled in the 4th quarter on Sunday due to a minor calf injury he suffered during the game. Coach Jim Zorn added that Portis is "doing well" the day after.
Pyro's Take:
Portis was already dealing with bone spurs in both ankles, so any other injury could slow him down even more. His fantasy numbers have taken a hit this year as he has zero touchdowns and has failed to break the 80-yard mark in any of the three games.
An MRI taken on the right foot of 49ers running back Frank Gore revealed that he has a right ankle strain and right hind foot sprain. The injuries are said to keep him out for approximately three weeks.
Pyro's Take:
The 49ers will turn to rookie Glen Coffee in the interim while Gore heals his busted foot. Coffee could be in line for some nice fantasy numbers too as the Niners face the Rams and Falcons over the next couple of weeks.
Chiefs coach Todd Haley wants to be cautious with his star wide receiver, Dwayne Bowe (hamstring), and stated as much on Monday. “Anytime you’re talking about a hamstring, especially with a skill position, you’ve got to err on the side of caution because those things can end up being a long-term thing if you’re not careful,” Haley said.
Pyro's Take:
It would probably be a smart move for the Chiefs to sit Bowe for one more week while he recovers from his hamstring injury. Keep Over-the-Dwayne-Bowe on your fantasy football bench until he's 100 percent again.
Lions running back Kevin Smith's availability for Sunday's game against the Bears is still up in the air after injuring his shoulder last week in the win over the Redskins.
Pyro's Take:
Smith has been icing the shoulder and getting treatment for the injury, but the report was that the injury is considered "week-to-week", which doesn't bode well for fantasy football owners this Sunday. We'll keep you posted.
Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker was in pads and out on the field for the start of practice on Wednesday. Welker has missed the past two games dealing with a knee injury.
Pyro's Take:
Welker has been at practice on and off for the whole season, so his being there today says nothing at all. He'll likely be a game-time decision once again in Week 4. Keep him on your fantasy football bench until otherwise noted.
Bears running back Matt Forte was limited in practice on Wednesday due to the tweaked knee he sustained in the Week 3 game against the Seahawks, but is expected to return to a full practice today.
Pyro's Take:
Forte should be just fine as the injury was minor, and should be in line for a big day this Sunday against a soft Detroit defense. Start him in all fantasy football formats this weekend.
Giants rookie wide receiver Hakeem Nicks returned to a full practice on Thursday after not playing since spraining his foot back in Week 1.
Pyro's Take:
Nicks had a chance to make a quick mark on the league with the mish-mosh of receivers employed in New York, but his injury stomped out that possibility. Leave him at the end of your fantasy football bench if you haven't dropped him already.
When Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt was asked about wide receiver Anquan Boldin's injury and the bye week, Ken said, "'Q' has battled his tail off, especially since that first game where he was about 80 percent. He's been working through it and I've been very impressed with that. He's looking better and better."
Pyro's Take:
Boldin and fellow receiver Steve Breaston both could use the break to completely heal from their injuries. When the two come back in Week 5, look for some fantasy football goodness coming your way.
When Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt was asked about wide receiver Anquan Boldin's injury and the bye week, Ken said, "'Q' has battled his tail off, especially since that first game where he was about 80 percent. He's been working through it and I've been very impressed with that. He's looking better and better."
Pyro's Take:
Boldin and fellow receiver Steve Breaston both could use the break to completely heal from their injuries. When the two come back in Week 5, look for some fantasy football goodness coming your way.
Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw has not run yet without the boot on his sprained right ankle/foot, but remains confident he will play Sunday. "I don't think it will be any problem at all," he said. "I'm just resting right now. The boot keeps me from just pounding it with the aggravation that's in my ankle."
Pyro's Take:
Coach Tom Coughlin is cautiously optimistic that Bradshaw will play Sunday, but we're not so sure the Giants will risk further injury against bottom-feeder Kansas City in Week 4. Keep him on your fantasy football bench for a week just in case.
Titans tight end Bo Scaife (knee) practiced in full again on Thursday and looks to be active for the game against the Jaguars on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Scaife led the team in receptions last year, so his return should help the Titans get off the schneid. Being his first game back from injury, however, we'd let him sit on your fantasy football bench for one more week.
Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle) got rid of the protective boot he was wearing and practiced in full on Friday. He is listed as probable on the Giants injury report.
Pyro's Take:
The Giants would love to get Bradshaw some work on Sunday against a weak KC defense, but his carries might be limited. We'd look elsewhere on your fantasy football team for a play this week.
Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson (ankle, probable) missed the last two games due to injury, but has practiced in full all week and is ready to go against the Steelers on Sunday night.
Pyro's Take:
It's tough to see one of your studs return from injury, yet not be able to play him. The match-up against a tough Steelers D and possibly being a bit rusty has us thinking you should let LT rest on your fantasy football bench until after his Week 5 bye.
Browns rookie running back James Davis (shoulder) was placed on injured reserve on Saturday thus ending his 2009 season.
Pyro's Take:
We didn't see this coming at all. There was no indication that his shoulder injury was this bad, but obviously it was worse than anyone thought. You can drop the young prospect from your fantasy football team now.
Buccaneers running back Derrick Ward (knee) has been declared inactive for the game against the Redskins today.
Pyro's Take:
This isn't too much of a surprise as Ward has been dealing with a knee injury all week. Make sure you get him out of your fantasy football lineup immediately.
Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (knee) has been declared inactive for the game against the Chiefs on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Hixon has been week-to-week with his knee injury, so it's not surprising that he was ruled out for this match-up. Keep him on your fantasy football bench for now.
Despite getting just one touch in the second half yesterday, Cowboys running back Marion Barber did not aggravate his injured quad. "We're not afraid to put Tashard [Choice] out there, but Marion is coming off the quad injury, and I thought he did a good job of playing through some things," OC Jason Garrett said.
Pyro's Take:
Barber seemed to be doing just fine throughout the first half, so we have to question why he got just one touch the second half of the game. We'll keep you updated on whether there's any more to this story than the team is letting on.
Lions all-world wide receiver Calvin Johnson left Sunday's game in the fourth quarter after taking a helmet to the thigh, but will be okay for Week 5. "I'll be all right," Johnson said after the game.
Pyro's Take:
Megatron was putting his own hurt on the Bears secondary going off for 133 yards on eight catches before the injury. He'll be just fine and is still a weekly start for your fantasy football squad.
Buccaneers quarterback Byron Leftwich (hip) was inactive for the game on Sunday, and said after the game that he couldn't have played even if he was active.
Pyro's Take:
There was no mention of his hip injury all week, but our bet is that he injured it trying to kick his own ass for not being able to keep his job over Josh Johnson and rookie Josh Freeman. Drop him from your fantasy football squad if you still have him.
Eagles wide receiver Kevin Curtis (knee) returned to practice on Monday after being inactive for the Week 3 game against the Chiefs.
Pyro's Take:
This kid is a broken record that the Eagles can no longer afford to listen to anymore. Nagging injury after nagging injury, blah blah blah. Dump him from your fantasy football team, even if the Eagles won't.
After suffering a heel injury in Week 4 against the Chiefs, Giants quarterback Eli Manning has confirmed that he has plantar fasciitis in his right foot. His availability going forward is as yet unknown.
Pyro's Take:
Eli has a nice streak of 75 straight starts to his credit, but the Giants would be wise to let him take a seat in Week 5 against a weak Raiders team to rest the injury. We'll let you know how this affects his fantasy football status as more information is let known.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, it doesn't look like Broncos running back Correll Buckhalter (ankle) will be able to play this Sunday against the Patriots. Rookie RB Knowshon Moreno will get the first start of his career should Buckhalter not be able to go.
Pyro's Take:
Moreno seems to be getting better each week and would deserve to get his first start soon regardless of Buckhalter's injury. Use him as a RB2 on your fantasy football team this week if you have him.
Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle) was on the sidelines during practice on Wednesday resting his foot injury.
Pyro's Take:
This can be an expected occurrence for a few weeks while Bradshaw deals with his bum ankle. He should still be a good fantasy football flex play this weekend against the Raiders.
Patriots running back Fred Taylor sat out practice on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
There was no mention of a sustained injury last Sunday, so this is likely just a rest day for the 33-year old back.
Steelers running back Willie Parker (turf toe) missed practice again on Thursday and doesn't look like he will play this Sunday against the Lions.
Pyro's Take:
Turf toe is a lot more painful of an injury than it sounds, so we wouldn't be surprised to see Parker out at least another week past Sunday. Keep him buried on your fantasy football bench.
Patriots running back Fred Taylor is expected to have surgery on his injured right ankle, though the surgery is not supposed to be season-ending.
Pyro's Take:
Taylor suffered the injury on the final play of the game last Sunday. Sammy Morris and Laurence Maroney will be depended on to pick up the slack with Taylor out, with the better fantasy football value edging towards Morris.
Patriots running back Fred Taylor is expected to have surgery on his injured right ankle, though the surgery is not supposed to be season-ending.
Pyro's Take:
Taylor suffered the injury on the final play of the game last Sunday. Sammy Morris and Laurence Maroney will be depended on to pick up the slack with Taylor out, with the better fantasy football value edging towards Morris.
Patriots running back Fred Taylor is expected to have surgery on his injured right ankle, though the surgery is not supposed to be season-ending.
Pyro's Take:
Taylor suffered the injury on the final play of the game last Sunday. Sammy Morris and Laurence Maroney will be depended on to pick up the slack with Taylor out, with the better fantasy football value edging towards Morris.
Buccaneers wide receiver Michael Clayton returned to a full practice on Thursday after being limited on Wednesday due to a rib injury.
Pyro's Take:
Not that he was worth a whole hell of a lot before, but with Josh Johnson now running the team, he should be the next guy you drop off your fantasy football team.
Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (knee) is listed as probable on the team's injury report after practicing in full on Friday.
Pyro's Take:
Hixon hasn't even come close to being the receiver he was supposed to be this year. Keep him at the end of your fantasy football bench in case of injury.
Panthers running back Mike Goodson (concussion) will not suit up for the game on Sunday against the Redskins.
Pyro's Take:
Goodson also has some sort of illness, so it's not a surprise to see the Panthers sitting him down for the game. Keep him at the end of your fantasy football bench in case of injury to Jonathan Stewart and/or DeAngelo Williams.
Jets coach Rex Ryan said on Friday that it's possible wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery will miss Monday night's game against Miami due to the hamstring injury he suffered in practice on Thursday.
Pyro's Take:
It didn't seem like the injury was going to be bad enough to miss a game, so we'll see what kind of progress he makes in the next couple days. If you have another option on your fantasy football bench, you might want to consider throwing him in there as Cotchery's game isn't until Monday night.
Coach Marvin Lewis and the Bengals don't seem too concerned about quarterback Carson Palmer's sprained left thumb as it didn't look to affect his ability to throw the ball.
Pyro's Take:
Carson doesn't seem concerned either as he had no problem hooking up with Andre Caldwell for the game-winning touchdown with 22 seconds remaining on Sunday. Continue to use Palmer as a QB1 on your fantasy football team despite the injury.
When asked if he re-injured his hamstring in the game Monday night, Jets wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery said "probably so". Cotchery was forced to play more than planned when WR Brad Smith suffered a foot injury himself.
Pyro's Take:
Hopefully Cotch can loosen it up enough to be able to play the Bills next Sunday. Check back later in the week to see if you can get him back into your fantasy football lineup in Week 6.
Saints beat writer Jeff Duncan expects running backs Pierre Thomas and Mike Bell to split carries when Bell comes back from injury this week.
Pyro's Take:
We can see Bell eating into Thomas' carries some for sure, but an even split? Not unless coach Sean Payton truly thinks Thomas won't be able to stay healthy all year. Pierre is still the one with the most fantasy football value the rest of the year.
Saints beat writer Jeff Duncan expects running backs Pierre Thomas and Mike Bell to split carries when Bell comes back from injury this week.
Pyro's Take:
We can see Bell eating into Thomas' carries some for sure, but an even split? Not unless coach Sean Payton truly thinks Thomas won't be able to stay healthy all year. Pierre is still the one with the most fantasy football value the rest of the year.
With Saints wide receivers Marquis Colston and Devery Henderson entrenched as the team's starters, Lance Moore will continue his role as the slot receiver in three-WR sets.
Pyro's Take:
After a surprising 2008 season, Moore has been a huge disappointment in 2009. The shoulder injury he suffered in the off-season seems to have taken it's toll on his game and his fantasy football value.
Dolphins running back Ricky Williams made his way off the field under his own power after suffering an ankle injury late in the game Monday night. The Miami Herald states that the injury is not considered serious.
Pyro's Take:
Ricky should be just fine as he continues his rejuvenated 2009 campaign. Williams is currently putting up some decent flex numbers for your fantasy football team.
With Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri nursing a knee injury right now, the team decided to use the bye week to bring in Matt Stover for a tryout and are seriously considering signing the free agent later today.
Pyro's Take:
Vinatieri is 6-of-8 on field goals this year and has made all his extra points. With the Colts scoring at the pace they do, any kicker is worth fantasy football consideration. Check back on Stover.
Patriots wide receiver Randy Moss (undisclosed) sat out practice on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
That "undisclosed injury" is what we like to call divapussitis. Sure, Randy is 32-years old now, but it doesn't take 3 days to get over being sore after a one-catch game. If he thinks he and Brady don't need the practice, just take a look at your record and stats buddy.
Cowboys running back Felix Jones (knee) said on Wednesday that even though he is frustrated by the injury, he should return to practice next week and be ready to play in Week 7.
"It's a little tough to go through the off-season, the preseason feeling good, get into the season a couple of games then get hurt," Jones said. "Last year it happened the same way."
Pyro's Take:
Classic comment by an injury-prone player: "I'll try to stay on the field next time." - Felix Jones on Wednesday
The kid is a stud when healthy, electric as they come, but he's only been on the field for 8 of his first 21 games in the league. Wait until he's healthy, then trade that Cowboys backfield off your fantasy football team for whatever you can get.
Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin (shoulder) missed practice on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
It's unclear how or when Harvin sustained the shoulder injury, but we'll let you know as soon as we find out. He can still be used as a WR3 or flex player on your fantasy football team until further notice.
Broncos running back Correll Buckhalter (ankle) returned to practice to take hand-offs and catch screen passes on Wednesday, but third-string RB LaMont Jordan sat out with an unknown injury.
Pyro's Take:
Knowshon Moreno still took all the first-team reps and should carry the load again this coming Monday night against the Chargers. Moreno looks to be a solid RB2 fantasy football play for the time being.
Broncos running back Correll Buckhalter (ankle) returned to practice to take hand-offs and catch screen passes on Wednesday, but third-string RB LaMont Jordan sat out with an unknown injury.
Pyro's Take:
Knowshon Moreno still took all the first-team reps and should carry the load again this coming Monday night against the Chargers. Moreno looks to be a solid RB2 fantasy football play for the time being.
Broncos running back Correll Buckhalter (ankle) returned to practice to take hand-offs and catch screen passes on Wednesday, but third-string RB LaMont Jordan sat out with an unknown injury.
Pyro's Take:
Knowshon Moreno still took all the first-team reps and should carry the load again this coming Monday night against the Chargers. Moreno looks to be a solid RB2 fantasy football play for the time being.
Steelers wide receiver Santonio Holmes claims that his early-season troubles with holding onto the ball are due to a wrist injury he suffered in Week 2 against the Bears. "That had an impact on me dropping those balls in Chicago," Holmes said about the wrist injury. "But, after that, no. I can't make any excuses. I play wide receiver. I'm supposed to catch the ball."
Pyro's Take:
After watching that catch you made for the winning TD in the Super Bowl last year, we'll give you the benefit of the doubt, especially if you promise you'll step it up the rest of the year for us fantasy football owners who drafted you.
Steelers running back Willie Parker (turf toe) will begin wearing a special shoe in practice and in games in order to protect the injured toe on his left foot.
Pyro's Take:
Willie's game has always been based on speed, so having an injury that takes away from the only part of his game that was worth anything dropped his fantasy football value to being a flex play at best.
Browns kicker Phil Dawson (calf) returned to practice on a limited basis Wednesday after missing the previous three games due to injury.
Pyro's Take:
Billy Cundiff or Phil Dawson... hmmmm... We'll take Door #3 please.
Neither one is worth your fantasy football energy.
Seahawks wide receiver Nate Burleson was limited in practice on Wednesday due to back injury.
Pyro's Take:
Burleson has been a major surprise this year, which has led to him being picked up and started regularly in most fantasy football leagues. Check back with us later in the week on his status for the upcoming game against the Cardinals.
Cardinals wide receiver Steve Breaston (knee) was limited in practice on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
When The Third Nipple gets in the game, he produces, but he's been battling this knee injury of his all year so it's been hard to find the right time to get him into starting fantasy football lineups.
Pierre Thomas was limited in practice on Wednesday due to an ankle injury, while Mike Bell (knee) returned to a full practice after missing time to rehab his knee.
Pyro's Take:
The coaches don't seem too concerned about the ankle injury, but still, who are fantasy football owners supposed to start now? Check back later in the week to see how this situation will shake out for Sunday's game against the Giants.
Pierre Thomas was limited in practice on Wednesday due to an ankle injury, while Mike Bell (knee) returned to a full practice after missing time to rehab his knee.
Pyro's Take:
The coaches don't seem too concerned about the ankle injury, but still, who are fantasy football owners supposed to start now? Check back later in the week to see how this situation will shake out for Sunday's game against the Giants.
Broncos third-string running back LaMont Jordan missed practice again on Thursday, though no injury was reported.
Pyro's Take:
Buckhalter is back, so his role would have been limited anyway. Knowshon Moreno should continue to get the most touches and have the best fantasy football value this Monday night.
Eagles wide receiver Kevin Curtis (knee) practiced for the third straight day on Friday, but is still listed as questionable on the injury report and will likely be a game-time decision.
Pyro's Take:
Even if Curtis plays, expect Jeremy Maclin to not only get more targets, but to probably start ahead of him as well. Feel free to drop the injury-laden receiver from your fantasy football team anytime now.
Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon looks to be in line to take his return duties back from Sinorice Moss this week now that he is fully recovered from his knee injury.
Pyro's Take:
That will help him in some fantasy football formats, but he'll still likely be just a fourth or fifth option for Eli on offense.
Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon looks to be in line to take his return duties back from Sinorice Moss this week now that he is fully recovered from his knee injury.
Pyro's Take:
That will help him in some fantasy football formats, but he'll still likely be just a fourth or fifth option for Eli on offense.
Lions rookie QB Matthew Stafford (knee) missed practice again on Friday and is highly unlikely to play this weekend against the Packers.
Pyro's Take:
With the amount of cash they're giving this kid, they simply can't risk further injury by pushing him to play. If you had him starting on your fantasy team for any reason, take him out now.
WR Randy Moss is listed as probable on the team's injury report this week with a shoulder injury.
Pyro's Take:
Sorry Belichick, we're not biting on this one. Moss is just fine and will regain his WR1 fantasy football status this week against a weak Titans pass D. Start him at all costs.
Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt said on Friday that he is getting more comfortable with rookie Beanie Wells in the backfield. Wells, who missed a large chunk of training camp with an ankle injury, said the first month of pro ball has been "a humbling experience" and that "I just have to wait my time, and they (coaches) know when I'm ready".
Pyro's Take:
It's not Beanie's running ability that's the problem. It's that he can't block, can't catch, and can't hold onto the ball. The Cards will be working him into the offense more, however, so keep him on your fantasy football bench and see if his value goes up in the near future.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning (plantar fasciitis) has been declared active for the showdown against the Saints today
Pyro's Take:
This was expected, and it looks like Manning will be able to last the whole game, unless the Saints get to him and re-aggravate his injury. Start him on your fantasy football team if you got him.
After getting stepped on a few times during the game Sunday, Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco said that his ankle was sore on Monday, but that the injury itself is nothing serious.
Pyro's Take:
Flacco has grown up in a hurry as he is among the top-10 in the league in most QB categories. However, he has a bye this coming week, and probably shouldn't be started on your fantasy football team against a tough Denver secondary in Week 8.