With Brett Favre out of the picture, Vikings quarterbacks Sage Rosenfels and Tarvaris Jackson split first team reps on the first day of training camp.
Pyro's Take:
Favre screwed everything up for Minnesota, so now Rosenfels and Jackson have to duke it out for the starting job up in the 'soooota. Neither of them is going to win it, but one of them will lose it, but this decision won't be announced until deep in preseason.
The Browns QB, who is fighting with Brady Quinn for the starting job, said Saturday that he'll take on whatever job he gets. "What my role is is going to be determined and I’ll embrace whatever it is."
Pyro's Take:
Nobody knows who's winning this race. You could talk to 50 people and 20 would say Anderson, 20 would say Quinn, and 10 would not give a flying hoot. We don't have any real updates as both QBs have been given equal chances with the first-team.
Head coach Eric Mangini said Sunday that he expects both Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn to remain with the team throughout the season, no matter who wins the starting job. "In my mind, Brady and D.A. will both be here," Mangini said.
Pyro's Take:
This will be tough for whoever loses. Quinn is getting impatient with backup duty but Anderson went to the Pro-Bowl just a few seasons ago. However, Anderson has said he will embrace whatever role he is given and we expect Quinn to do the same.
Head coach Eric Mangini said Sunday that whoever wins the QB battle between Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson will remain the starter, and that he will not use a two-QB system.
Pyro's Take:
We're not high on any of these guys. Let Quinn continue to drink his protein crap and Anderson to continue to play one-year wonder boy and let's leave it at that.
The Denver Broncos signed their sixth-round draft choice, QB Tom Brandstater, to a four-year contract on July 26th.
Pyro's Take:
Coach Josh McDaniels hopes to nurture Brandstater behind Kyle Orton and Chris Simms this season. He's not going to see the field.
The Detroit Free Press is predicting that Detroit Lions QB Daunte Culpepper will start in week one, beating out rookie QB Matt Stafford.
Pyro's Take:
The Press' reasoning for this statement was that Culpepper is reunited with OC Scott Linehan, with whom he worked in Minnesota. We're not so sure the Press is right on this one, but either way, we expect Culpepper to give way by at most midseason.
The Detroit Free Press is predicting that Detroit Lions QB Daunte Culpepper will start in week one, beating out rookie QB Matt Stafford.
Pyro's Take:
The Press' reasoning for this statement was that Culpepper is reunited with OC Scott Linehan, with whom he worked in Minnesota. We're not so sure the Press is right on this one, but either way, we expect Culpepper to give way by at most midseason.
Detroit Lions rookie QB Matthew Stafford has impressed OC Scott Linehan so much during training camp, that Linehan said, ""I don't feel like I'm coaching or talking to a rookie when we work with him."
Pyro's Take:
Linehan doesn't expect to make a decision before the last preseason game about the starting job. But this is great news for Stafford, who we like to beat out the geezer Culpepper for the starting QB job. We like the Lions to turn it around this season. 3 wins, baby. Lets go, D-town!
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.
Minnesota Vikings QB Tarvaris Jackson returned to practice Thursday after sitting out for just less than a week with an MCL sprain.
Pyro's Take:
Jackson, who is battling Sage Rosenfels for the starting QB spot, jumped right in and split first-team reps with Rosenfels. Jackson ended the season strong last year, but he's very injury prone, which could work against him.
Minnesota Vikings coach Brad Childress isn't happy with all phases of the passing game, saying, "We’ve got a long way to go to be happy with the passing game."
Pyro's Take:
Childress is probably still fuming about the rejection from Mr. Brett Favre, because now he's left with two pretty good backup QBs to battle for the starting job. However, he didn't just single out the QBs, but the RBs and O-line as well, but we all know the passing game starts with the QB, and this is not a good sign from Childress.
Minnesota Vikings coach Brad Childress isn't happy with all phases of the passing game, saying, "We’ve got a long way to go to be happy with the passing game."
Pyro's Take:
Childress is probably still fuming about the rejection from Mr. Brett Favre, because now he's left with two pretty good backup QBs to battle for the starting job. However, he didn't just single out the QBs, but the RBs and O-line as well, but we all know the passing game starts with the QB, and this is not a good sign from Childress.
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."
The New York Giants QB and former Super Bowl MVP agreed to a six-year, $97.5 million contract extension. The average of $15.27 million per year is the highest in NFL history.
Pyro's Take:
Some people were reporting that this deal could top $120 million. It didn't reach that, but it still makes Eli the 8th person ever to have a contract worth over $100 million, if you include the $9.4 mil he's due this year. The deal includes $35 million in guaranteed money. That's just absurd.
New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan said that he expects to name a staring QB before the Jets third preseason game on August 29.
Pyro's Take:
Ryan is just procrastinating because neither QB has looked good this preseason. Sanchez will win the competition and unseat Clemens, but it's a lose-lose situation for the Jets.
New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan said that he expects to name a staring QB before the Jets third preseason game on August 29.
Pyro's Take:
Ryan is just procrastinating because neither QB has looked good this preseason. Sanchez will win the competition and unseat Clemens, but it's a lose-lose situation for the Jets.
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.
The New England Patriots have signed former Oakland Raiders QB Andrew Walter to a contract for an undisclosed amount.
Pyro's Take:
Walter was brought in for veteran experience with second-year man Kevin O'Connell tabbed as the backup QB. Walter will challenge O'Connell for the backup spot but Bill Belichick said he was "comfortable" with O'Connell as the backup so Walter will probably end up as the No. 3.
According to New England Patriots beat writer Christopher Gasper, QB Andrew Walter was brought in "to compete with second-year signal caller Kevin O’Connell," and that O'Connell has gotten decreased reps since Walter arrived.
Pyro's Take:
This contradicts the marks coach Bill Belichick made a week ago when he told of a O'Connell who had come a long way and with whom he felt comfortable as the No. 2 QB on the roster. But should Brady go down again, don't expect another Matt Cassel to develop.
Jets' head coach, Rex Ryan, named Kellen Clemens the starter for the first pre-season game vs. the Rams on Friday, August 14th.
Pyro's Take:
hahahahahahaha
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?
Two sources have told Yahoo! Sports that the threat of veteran QB Brian St. Pierre overtaking incumbent Matt Leinart at the No. 2 QB position is "very real."
Pyro's Take:
The Arizona Cardinals coaches raved about Leinart earlier in the offseason, so we're not too sure how "real" this threat is. If (when) Leinart does beat out Brian what-ever-his-name-is, he is a must-handcuff to Warner, given Warner's old brittle bones and the two all-pro WRs lining up in either direction of him.
According to CBSSports.com senior writer Pete Prisco, "don't expect a sophomore slump from [Atlanta Falcons' QB] Matt Ryan."
Pyro's Take:
Ryan has lost four percent of his body fat while also bulking up in the weight room, and he's "throwing the heck out of the football" as Prisco puts it. We also predict no sophomore slump, especially considering the Falcons added future Hall-of-Fame TE Tony Gonzalez.
Atlanta Falcons Examiner writer Daniel Cox believes that Chris Redman is one of six Falcons that are on the bubble in training camp.
Pyro's Take:
One thing's for certain, the Falcons aren't going to wait much longer for fourth-year QB D.J. Shockley to progress, so it looks like Redman's job is safe. Redman is a veteran and Shockley hasn't done anything with his three years in the NFL, so we disagree with this statement. But regardless, Matt Ryan is No. 1.
According to Baltimore Ravens beat writer Jamison Henry, QB Joe Flacco has thrown "a high number of interceptions" and Henry said media and fans "haven't been impressed with [his] progress at training camp."
Pyro's Take:
Ravens' OC Cam Cameron said he wasn't concerned, as he wants his QBs to throw INTs in training camp to test their limits, but then later he said, "in the preseason, I want to throw completions." We think he's just confused because his first and last name are the same. As far as Flacco goes, the Ravens are always going to be a pound-the-rock possession offensive team with a stellar defense.
Carolina Panthers backup QB Josh McCown is reportedly very happy in training camp as it's the first time in his eight-year NFL career that he's had the same offensive coordinator in back-to-back seasons. "It’s been nice to know the offense and have a sound base that I can take into camp," McCown said.
Pyro's Take:
That's nice. Really, we're happy for you Josh. Now if only you could play football...
Chicago Bears' QB Jay Cutler went 22-28 in the Bears scrimmage last weekend. It's worth noting that he didn't face a pass rush.
Pyro's Take:
There's not much to read into this, other than it proves that Cutler is accurate, precise, and can put the ball where it needs to be placed. We'll see what he does when he faces another team for the first time Saturday night.
According to NFL Post writer Michael Lombardi, the Chicago Bears wanted to sign former Oakland Raiders' QB Andrew Walter before the New England Patriots got him last week.
Pyro's Take:
the fact that the Bears were interested in a mediocre, old QB a week into training camp isn't good news for Bears' backup QB Caleb Hanie. Hanie must not be impressing and the Bears could be in deep dung if Cutler misses any time.
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 coach Eric Mangini listed QBs Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson as co-starters on the team's first depth chart Tuesday. Their names were separated by just a slash.
Pyro's Take:
This is truly an indication that nobody has any idea what will happen with this race. We could make all the guesses and assumptions in the world, but honestly nothing has been settled and won't be for a few weeks.
Cleveland Browns coach Eric Mangini listed QBs Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson as co-starters on the team's first depth chart Tuesday. Their names were separated by just a slash.
Pyro's Take:
This is truly an indication that nobody has any idea what will happen with this race. We could make all the guesses and assumptions in the world, but honestly nothing has been settled and won't be for a few weeks.
The QB competition remains unsettled in Tampa, however McCown gets the start on Saturday in Tennessee.
Pyro's Take:
Whoever ends up winning this job actually should have some fantasy value. Antonio Bryant (though hurt in camp), Kellen Winslow, and Michael Clayton is an impressive trio of pass-catchers. Add in Derrick Ward and his sticky mitts out of the backfield, and Leftwich or McCown could command QB2/3 status with upside.
Denver Broncos beat writer Mike Kils believes that rookie Tom Brandstater will become the Broncos' No. 3 QB.
Pyro's Take:
Brandstater doesn't have much competition, but he won't see the field unless Kyle Orton and Chris Simms both go down.
QB Daunte Culpepper will start for the Detroit Lions in their preseason opener against the Falcons this afternoon and Matthew Stafford will probably come on early in the second quarter.
Pyro's Take:
Coach Jim Schwartz said that QB rotation will be switched for the next game, so don't read too much into this other than someone needed to start at QB. The race for the week one starter is still wide open.
Detroit Lions rookie QB Matthew Stafford will start on the bench in the team's first preseason game this afternoon as veteran QB Daunte Culpepper gets the starting nod.
Pyro's Take:
Coach Jim Schwartz said that the QB rotation will change next week, so don't read too much into this, other than someone had to start the game at QB. Stafford still has a legit shot at starting in week one.
NFL.com writer Jason LaCanfora writes that Detroit Lions' QBs Daunte Culpepper and Matthew Stafford have "performed to a near dead heat through the first few weeks of camp."
Pyro's Take:
It's tough to predict who will start in week one and the preseason games will go a long way to determine the starter. However, we predict that if Stafford doesn't begin the season as the starter, he will take over in mid-season at the latest.
NFL.com writer Jason LaCanfora writes that Detroit Lions' QBs Daunte Culpepper and Matthew Stafford have "performed to a near dead heat through the first few weeks of camp."
Pyro's Take:
It's tough to predict who will start in week one and the preseason games will go a long way to determine the starter. However, we predict that if Stafford doesn't begin the season as the starter, he will take over in mid-season at the latest.
Green Bay Packers' QB Aaron Rodgers said that practicing against the new 3-4 defensive scheme the Packers have implemented has helped him and the offense improve.
Pyro's Take:
The Packers were 3-4 last year against teams that ran the 3-4 defense, and Rodgers thinks that routinely practicing against an aggressive defensive scheme that also reduces the passing window has helped the offense improve. Rodgers himself should also improve this season.
Houston Texans head coach Gary Kubiak confirmed that Dan Orlovsky is the backup QB to Rex Grossman, and will play about half the game in Houston's preseason opener.
Pyro's Take:
Either way, the Texans are not in good shape at the backup spot. You got Orlovsky, who needs some help determining where the back of the end zone is, and Grossman, who severely undercut expectations in Chicago. For the Texans' sake, we hope Schaub can stay healthy.
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.
At this point, according to Stephen Holder of the St Petersburg Times, Leftwich would have to regress dramatically to let McCown back into this contest.
Pyro's Take:
We find it amusing that anyone ever really thought McCown had a chance to start this season. He... and his brother... are barely backups in this league.
Newly signed Kansas City Chiefs QB Matt Cassel put in a much stronger effort in his second preseason game going 9-of-14 for 99 yards and a TD against the Minnesota Vikings defense. He also added 13 yards rushing on two quarterback scrambles.
Pyro's Take:
The Chiefs and their fans can let out a sigh of relief now as their $63 million QB finally showed them what they paid for. Cassel showed a tremendous amount of athleticism throughout the game as well as leading the offense past mid-field four separate times in the first half. If this were against one of the bottom-dweller defenses, we wouldn't put much stock into, but to play like this against the Vikings, who are one of the best D's in the league, is something that should really excite fantasy owners.
Andrew Walter now slides into the primary backup spot to Brady. Now all three QBs from last season's depth chart are gone as the Pats previous cut Matt Gutierrez and of course traded away Cassel.
Pyro's Take:
Pretty much any QB can perform well fantasy-wise with Randy Moss on the field, so Brady owners would be wise to snag Andrew Walter. This article did go on to speculate that the Pats could now hit the free agent market, or perhaps even now consider pulling off a trade, in order to provide more stability between the Tommy Boy. On second thought, hold off on that Walter call for now.
Detroit Lions QB Daunte Culpepper was not at practice on Thursday and has not been at practice all week, but he's still not ruled out of Thursday's game. "He was a little sore from walking around yesterday," coach Jim Schwartz said. "We thought the best course of action today was keep him from walking around."
Pyro's Take:
That might be one of the funniest quotes we've ever seen regarding an NFL player. Maybe Culpepper should just go home and be an armchair quarterback for the rest of his days. Can't get sore from that, can ya Pooper!
QB Daunte Culpepper returns to practice on Monday and will have a full week to show what he's got, as Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz hinted that he might wait until the end of the week to announce his team's starting quarterback.
Pyro's Take:
Rookie Matthew Stafford was good enough in the preseason to warrant the starting nod, especially since Daunte has been out of commission for over a week now. Culps must have something pretty juicy on coach Schwartz to have stuck around in this race for so long.
QB Daunte Culpepper returns to practice on Monday and will have a full week to show what he's got, as Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz hinted that he might wait until the end of the week to announce his team's starting quarterback.
Pyro's Take:
Rookie Matthew Stafford was good enough in the preseason to warrant the starting nod, especially since Daunte has been out of commission for over a week now. Culps must have something pretty juicy on coach Schwartz to have stuck around in this race for so long.
Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz has announced that first-round pick QB Matthew Stafford will be the starting quarterback for the team in Week 1. He also said that Stafford won't have to be looking over his shoulder after every mistake either. "This isn't an internship or an experiment," Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said.
Pyro's Take:
Coach Schwartz recently said that he'd take the week to figure out his starter, but finally came to his senses and made Daunte Culpepper the backup. Stafford will have growing pains to be sure, but he's better suited for the job as he already has a good rapport with his star WR Calvin Johnson.
Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz has announced that first-round pick QB Matthew Stafford will be the starting quarterback for the team in Week 1. He also said that Stafford won't have to be looking over his shoulder after every mistake either. "This isn't an internship or an experiment," Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said.
Pyro's Take:
Coach Schwartz recently said that he'd take the week to figure out his starter, but finally came to his senses and made Daunte Culpepper the backup. Stafford will have growing pains to be sure, but he's better suited for the job as he already has a good rapport with his star WR Calvin Johnson.
With just six days before the first game, St. Louis Rams starting QB Marc Bulger still isn't taking snaps under center after breaking his pinkie on an ill-timed snap three weeks ago. The earlier he will try to will be at practice on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
Bulger could have six fingers on each hand and be 110 percent healthy and we still wouldn't take him as a third-string fantasy quarterback. His 2006 season has been getting him drafted the past couple of years only to disappoint terribly, so don't be the sucker of your league this year.
A day after not speaking to the media concerning the coaches decision to make him the backup, Detroit Lions QB Daunte Culpepper had this to say on Tuesday: "Coach (Jim) Schwartz gave me a fair opportunity to compete for the starting job and now the decision has been made that Matt (Stafford) is the best quarterback in Detroit... I support the decision and I am ready to settle into my role... The Lions organization has treated me with respect and class and they can expect the same from me."
Pyro's Take:
Is Culpepper really this gracious of a loser, or is he just a loser, period? We re-read his statements and found out what he really said: "It would have been nice to be the starter on a team with zero expectations, because I kind of suck now, but either way, thanks for the free cash. I really needed that more than anything."
Denver Broncos estranged wide receiver Brandon Marshall is back with the team and displaying a "great" attitude according to coach Josh McDaniels. When asked about his availability for Week 1, McDaniels had this to say: "Look, he's a good football player. If he's ready to go and we go through this week of practice and feel that's the direction we want to play on Sunday, certainly we all know what he can do as a football player."
Pyro's Take:
The Broncos need Marshall, period. With a new head coach, new quarterback, new running back, and a whole new game-plan, Denver could use all the talent out on the field they can get. Whether Marshall's improved attitude holds up or not remains to be seen, but you can bet fantasy owners who took a chance on him hope it does. We'll keep you posted on the Broncos plans for TO Jr.
Kansas City Chiefs head coach confirmed on Wednesday that starting quarterback Matt Cassel will be listed as questionable for the game against Baltimore on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Shocker. Another Bill Belichick disciple strikes again as Chiefs GM Scott Pioli continues the dictator's tradition of being a schmuck when it comes to the weekly injury report.
Denver Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton had this to say about his prospects for playing on Sunday: "I'm preparing that I'm going to play. No question about it," Orton said before practice today. "(I'm trying) to take as many reps as I can this week in practice to get ready, and be ready to go on Sunday... Everybody wants to play opening day, obviously, and I'm no different. I want to get out and compete and do everything I can do to help this team win."
Pyro's Take:
Orton has been wearing a protective glove during practice all week, but he's not sure if he would wear it on Sunday if he plays. We're betting he guts it out and gets in there on Sunday, but we'd stay far away fantasy-wise.
Cincinnati Bengals starting QB Carson Palmer said in a press conference on Wednesday that he's 100 percent and ready to go. “Oh yeah, 100 percent. I practiced on Monday, did everything, felt great and felt great yesterday after that, and that was a good test. So I’m full-go all week,” said Palmer.
Pyro's Take:
If Carson can stay healthy all year, he's a top 8 quarterback who could bring back top 5 numbers with the talent he has at receiver. For now, you can feel safe in starting him weekly for your team again.
Detroit Lions second-year running back Kevin Smith is looking forward to making a big impact on the league this year. New offensive coordinator, Scott Linehan, has already stated that he will use Smith more on screen passes this year, an area that Smith is sure to excel at, and is ready to make Kevin Smith a household name.
Pyro's Take:
We've been high on Smith ever since watching him towards the end of last year, and marked him high up our cheat sheet accordingly. It seems Smith just kept getting better and better the more they used him, and now that the Lions have a rookie quarterback running the show, we expect Smith to be leaned on quite a bit throughout the year.
Steelers wide receiver Santonio Holmes is starting off the year right. At halftime of the first game of the 2009 season, Santonio already has five catches for 83 yards including a 34-yard touchdown.
Pyro's Take:
We had Holmes ranked as a bottom tier WR2 to start off the season, and it looks as if he'll be right along those lines as the year progresses. Santonio could be in for a nice year as he seems to be in sync with his big quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger.
St. Louis Rams quarterback Marc Bulger told head coach Steve Spagnuolo after practice on Friday "Coach, I am ready to go."
Pyro's Take:
The match-up for Bulger is pretty good this week playing at home against a weak Seattle secondary, but that doesn't off-set the fact that both Bulger and the Rams receivers suck. If you actually have him on your fantasy team, don't be tempted to play him.
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.
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was a full participant in practice on Friday and is set to start the game under center on Monday night against the Bills.
Pyro's Take:
Tommy Bundchen practiced every day this week, so all that concern over his shoulder can be tossed out the window. He's an automatic start for your fantasy team each week, unless Gisele calls in one Sunday morning saying Tommy won't be able to make it to work because she lost the key to the handcuffs...
We hate you Tom Brady, you lucky dog.
Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub (ankle) participated fully in practice for the third straight day on Friday and will start under center on Sunday against the Jets.
Pyro's Take:
"Glass Joe" has a good match-up this week and should be inserted into your fantasy lineups without reservation. Might as well get all you can out of the kid before he (inevitably) goes down again.
According to NFL radio, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel has been declared inactive for the match-up against the Ravens on Sunday. Brodie Croyle will start in his place.
Pyro's Take:
The Chiefs don't seem to want to risk their big off-season acquisition by throwing he and his sprained MCL to the wolves. The Ravens would tear him apart if he was to play, as the KC offensive line won't be able to handle their pass rush. Hopefully you have other (better) options at QB for Week 1.
The Cleveland Browns officially named their starting quarterback for the season, and his name is Brady Quinn.
Pyro's Take:
If Quinn is still starting by mid-year, it'll shock the shit out of us. Please, do not start this guy, especially against the Vikings defense this week.
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.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb, who cracked his rib during the game against the Panthers yesterday, is uncertain whether or not he'll play next week. "...anything can happen. It's just Monday right now, but if Friday and Saturday come along and I'm feeling a lot better, you just never know," he said.
Pyro's Take:
Even though the Eagles in no way want to go into the game next Sunday with Kevin Kolb as their starter, it's a good bet that McNabb takes a seat Week 2. Expect Philly to sign a QB in the next couple of days to either be a backup to Kolb or maybe even start the game over him against the Saints.
According to league sources, quarterback Jeff Garcia agreed to terms with the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday.
Pyro's Take:
With Donovan McNabb's availability for next week's game up in the air, the Eagles decided not to let fate decide their future and took matters into their own hands. Being a veteran who has knowledge of the Eagles offensive scheme, we're guessing that Garcia comes in and starts right away, assuming McNabb can't go next Sunday. He could be a nice one-week fantasy pickup playing in what will probably be a shoot-out with the Saints on Sunday.
According to league sources, quarterback Jeff Garcia agreed to terms with the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday.
Pyro's Take:
With Donovan McNabb's availability for next week's game up in the air, the Eagles decided not to let fate decide their future and took matters into their own hands. Being a veteran who has knowledge of the Eagles offensive scheme, we're guessing that Garcia comes in and starts right away, assuming McNabb can't go next Sunday. He could be a nice one-week fantasy pickup playing in what will probably be a shoot-out with the Saints on Sunday.
Carolina Panthers backup quarterback Josh McCown was put on injured reserve with knee and foot injuries on Monday, thus ending his 2009 season.
Pyro's Take:
This is both good and bad news for the Panthers. The move leaves Carolina thin at the QB position, but if McCown ever had to start for the team, they would probably have been worse off than whatever else they would find on the free agent market. Look for a QB signing to happen within the day.
The Carolina Panthers signed quarterback A.J. Feeley on Monday to take the place of Josh McCown on the roster. McCown was put on IR just hours before the signing.
Pyro's Take:
This was expected, and in fact should have been done long before this. McCown was as weak of a backup QB as there was in the league, and though A.J. Feeley is no diamond in the rough, he's still a better option to lead the team should Jake 'past-his-prime' Delhomme go down.
The Carolina Panthers signed quarterback A.J. Feeley on Monday to take the place of Josh McCown on the roster. McCown was put on IR just hours before the signing.
Pyro's Take:
This was expected, and in fact should have been done long before this. McCown was as weak of a backup QB as there was in the league, and though A.J. Feeley is no diamond in the rough, he's still a better option to lead the team should Jake 'past-his-prime' Delhomme go down.
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.
ESPN's Adam Schefter said that despite Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo's sprained ankle, he will practice on Wednesday and play in the game Sunday night against the Giants.
Pyro's Take:
After the clean MRI yesterday, this was expected. The Giants boast a tough defense, but they're a little banged up right now. Romo should be a safe play for fantasy owners next week.
When asked about the Wildcat offense the team has instilled, Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tavaris Jackson had this to say: "I don't want to do that," he said Monday. "(Other quarterbacks) can have that wildcat. I'm good. I want to run from the quarterback position."
Pyro's Take:
Tavaris doesn't have much of a chance to get on the field with Favre as the QB, so why he would deny one of his only shots is beyond us. Either way, he's not even the handcuff to Favre right now as Sage Rosenfels still sits above him on the depth chart.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford threw to receiver Calvin Johnson 13 times on Sunday, but only three catches were made. Said Stafford, "It's going to take it happening again and again. I've got to get to that point where I trust he's going to get to that spot and I'll cut it loose. It's going to happen, it really is."
Pyro's Take:
We believe you buddy. You'll get used to the fact that all you have to do is throw the ball near Megatron and he'll catch it. When you do, you might start to become fantasy viable. What matters more, however, is getting Johnson back up into the fantasy elite where he belongs.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford threw to receiver Calvin Johnson 13 times on Sunday, but only three catches were made. Said Stafford, "It's going to take it happening again and again. I've got to get to that point where I trust he's going to get to that spot and I'll cut it loose. It's going to happen, it really is."
Pyro's Take:
We believe you buddy. You'll get used to the fact that all you have to do is throw the ball near Megatron and he'll catch it. When you do, you might start to become fantasy viable. What matters more, however, is getting Johnson back up into the fantasy elite where he belongs.
Speaking about Bears quarterback Jay Cutler's post-game press conference, former head coaches Jim Mora and Mike Martz took shots at Cutler saying things like "he looked completely immature", "he acted like he didn't even care", and "he just doesn't get it".
Pyro's Take:
Mora and Martz are spot on with their comments. Here's another quote that fits:
"Come on, 'rook, show us that million-dollar arm. 'Cause I got; oh yeah, I got a good idea about that five-cent head of yours." - Crash Davis to Ebby Calvin LaLoosh in Bull Durham
Chiefs coach Todd Haley said on Tuesday that it's too early to know whether quarterback Matt Cassel (knee) will play on Sunday or not.
Pyro's Take:
Cassel was declared inactive just hours before the first game, but the Chiefs should know before that time in Week 2. We'll keep you updated on the situation as it comes across.
Eagles coach Andy Reid said that QB Donovan McNabb is making progress with his broken rib, but won't practice on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
Reid also said that he might not make his decision on a starting quarterback until the morning of the game. We don't expect McNabb to play, especially since they went out and got Jeff Garcia, so you might want to look to another option for your fantasy team in Week 2.
Eagles coach Andy Reid has already stated that QB Kevin Kolb will start if Donovan McNabb can't go on Sunday against the Saints.
Pyro's Take:
We understand that Kolb has been there throughout camp and knows the playbook and all, but the guy is a skid-mark on Jeff Garcia's briefs. Look for Garcia to get in this game at some point if Kolb actually starts.
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.
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner suffered a "stinger" during last week's game that affected his throwing arm, but he should be fine for the contest against the Jags in Week 2.
Pyro's Take:
Warner is old and has been beat up over the years. He won't make it through the season at this pace, so we hope you grabbed his handcuff, Matt Leinart, in your fantasy draft. If not, you might want to start thinking of a trade offer for him.
Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio had this to say about quarterback David Garrard on Tuesday: "He missed some things. I don't think there's any question about that... He's got to execute. We've just got to execute plays. If the plays are there, you've got to be able to take advantage of them. There are some things we feel we could have done better."
Pyro's Take:
Garrard didn't look very good in the opener, that's for sure. However, his fantasy worth isn't as a starter, so that shouldn't have affected your team last week. He's still a decent backup for the '09 season.
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.
The current contract for quarterback Peyton Manning runs through the end of 2010, but Colts owner Jim Irsay said this week that he expects a new contract to be worked out before the 2010 season starts. "With Peyton, it's about the last thing you worry about," Irsay said. "I expect it to quietly get done..."
Pyro's Take:
Peyton's brother Eli got a monster six-year extension this past off-season, as did Philip Rivers. Since Peyton is probably twice as good as his brother, expect this next contract he signs to be of Alex Rodriguez-sized proportions.
Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel has practiced in a limited fashion all week after missing the opening game and will be a game-time decision on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Coach Todd Haley also said the Cassel is "clearly ahead" of where he was last week, but doesn't want to risk the roster spot if there's the possibility that Cassel can't finish the game. Wait another week before considering a fantasy start for the guy.
Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb (broken rib) missed practice yet again on Friday and is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Saints.
Pyro's Take:
McNabb's a tough cookie, but one hit to the ribs on Sunday and he could be out for long long time. We don't believe coach Andy Reid will risk that, and neither should you. Find another fantasy option for Week 2.
"That's going to be my mindset for all 16 games that we have," Rams running back Steven Jackson said. "I anticipate defenses going with eight men in the box for the rest of the year because we are just so young at the receiver position."
Pyro's Take:
Young at receiver? Yes. Crappy quarterback? Yes. Either way, Jackson is renowned for slow starts as he only has two TDs in the month of September for his career. If you were expecting Jackson to be a RB1 for your fantasy team this year, you might have to wait awhile for that type of return.
Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (probable, ankle) practiced in full all week and is expected to play against the Giants Sunday night.
Pyro's Take:
As expected, he's fine, and a good fantasy bet against a banged up Giants secondary this weekend. Feel free to start him.
According to coach Gary Kubiak, Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub (ankle) is "98 percent" healthy heading into this weekend's game against the Titans. "He's moving around real good this week," Kubiak said. "I don't see any limitations on him going into this game. He's obviously better than he was last week."
Pyro's Take:
We would hope so, as Schaub really stunk up the place last week against the Jets. With two of his top three receivers hurt this week and going against a tough Titans D, if you have a better fantasy option, we'd go with that.
Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel has been declared active and told he would be starting the game against the Raiders today.
Pyro's Take:
It's safe to put him in your lineup if you want, though we'd suggest turning elsewhere for a fantasy QB today. Oakland's pass D is pretty darn good.
Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck was taken to the hospital after the game today to have a CT scan taken on his on his ribs. The scan only revealed a bruise, so his status for next week is iffy at this point.
Pyro's Take:
Hasselbeck did well in the first game against the Rams, but was mediocre at best while in the game against the 49ers today. He shouldn't be starting for your fantasy team anyway, but we'll keep you updated on the injury throughout the week.
Oakland Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell had a terrible game on Sunday, but the team still got the win and coach Tom Cable never thought of giving his QB the hook.
Pyro's Take:
Russell knows full well that the Raiders have to stick with him through thick and thin as the team's other options are even worse than he is. However, completing just three passes all game before completing four more on the final winning drive is mind-blowing, especially since it was against the Chiefs. Russell cannot be considered a fantasy pickup at any point this season.
Vikings quarterback Brett Favre injured his right hand on a completion to Bernard Berrian in the fourth quarter on Sunday, but stayed in the game and tossed a three-yard touchdown to Percy Harvin on the next play.
Pyro's Take:
When asked about it after the game, Favre said his hand was alright. It's tough to believe anything that comes out of his mouth nowadays, but we'll give him the benefit of the doubt for now.
Updating a previous report, Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck does indeed have a fractured rib and his availability for next week's game against Chicago is in question.
Pyro's Take:
Will QBs never learn? Though it may look heroic to sacrifice your body on a touchdown run, QBs need to understand that when defensive players get the chance, they will do their best to bury you for the season. Seattle will fly with Seneca Wallace if Hasselbeck can't go, and they will lose because of it.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Brady Quinn may have won the QB competition over Derek Anderson this preseason, but he hasn't won a thing since, including coach Eric Mangini's praise. “There were definitely some opportunities for him to get the ball to receivers that were open... but it’s consistency, it’s consistency, it’s consistency..." said Mangini.
Pyro's Take:
We're not exactly sure who you thought won the job here Mangina, but if you're looking for consistency, you might want to look beyond your current roster.
Neither Brady nor Anderson should be on your fantasy team.
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.
Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell thought he merely tweaked his ankle after Sunday's game, but found out it's more of a foot sprain on Monday after it swelled up overnight. He could be limited in practice this week.
Pyro's Take:
So is this a good thing or a bad thing for the Redskins? After barely beating the lowly Rams in their home opener, the team might be starting to wonder. Campbell is no more than a third-string fantasy QB at this point.
St. Louis Rams quarterback Marc Bulger took a hit on a slide in the third quarter Sunday which left him with an aching back after the game. Bulger ended up needing treatment from the team's medical staff and his status for next week is unknown.
Pyro's Take:
If it's not one thing with this guy, it's another. Back, finger, mangina, whatever. He's fantasy crap, and should stay on the shit-heap until every other QB is either hurt or taken by another team.
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.
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.
Despite two below-average performances thus far, Browns quarterback Brady Quinn will remain the starter according to coach Eric Mangini.
Pyro's Take:
That's why you're the coach of the Browns Mangina... you always make the crappiest decisions. Actually, neither Quinn or Derek Anderson should start... or be on your fantasy team.
Chiefs coach Todd Haley reiterated on Tuesday that no job is safe, not even quarterback Matt Cassel's.
Pyro's Take:
Nobody is blind to these mind games, especially considering that Cassel pretty much broke the KC bank in the off-season. Matt Cassel may be no more than a backup QB, in fantasy or otherwise, but Brodie Croyle? Really?
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner went through practice on Monday without any limitations due to continued problems with a stinger to his throwing arm.
Pyro's Take:
Warner was supposedly pulled from the game last Sunday after complaining that his arm was bothering him. True or not, he seems fine now, so have no fear starting him this upcoming fantasy week.
Eagles OC Marty Mornhinweg confirmed on Thursday that quarterback Michael Vick will indeed play on Sunday. "How much we'll see as the week goes on. I think hes in top physical condition," said Mornhinweg.
Pyro's Take:
The bigger question is when McNabb be back. Kevin Kolb did a fine job filling in for a week, but if Vick couldn't mesh well with McNabb, we fail to see how he and Kolb will work out at all. Still, Vick being ready to play is a positive for the Eagles.
Eagles OC Marty Mornhinweg confirmed on Thursday that quarterback Michael Vick will indeed play on Sunday. "How much we'll see as the week goes on. I think hes in top physical condition," said Mornhinweg.
Pyro's Take:
The bigger question is when McNabb be back. Kevin Kolb did a fine job filling in for a week, but if Vick couldn't mesh well with McNabb, we fail to see how he and Kolb will work out at all. Still, Vick being ready to play is a positive for the Eagles.
Seahawks coach Jim Mora said on Wednesday that quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (ribs) could play this Sunday against the Bears without practicing all week.
Pyro's Take:
“This is a guy who can pick things up without having to do the repetitions on the field,” Mora said. “But the key thing is what’s best for Matt’s health and for this football team in terms of long-term success.”
We're betting on Seneca Wallace taking the reins this week. Hasselbeck probably wouldn't be starting for your fantasy team anyway.
The Jets rookie quarterback, Mark Sanchez, was seen fussing over his right knee in practice on Thursday, repeatedly reaching down to the knee and flexing it throughout team drills.
Pyro's Take:
The Dirty One usually wears a sleeve on his knee, but wasn't today, so that may be the reason behind the fuss. We doubt there's anything wrong, but we'll update this post as soon as we know.
With nine TDs and 669 yards, Saints quarterback Drew Brees is flirting with changing the history books. Computed out over a 16-game season, Brees would break both the passing touchdowns record with 72 TDs, and the passing yards record with 5,352 yards.
Pyro's Take:
Can Brees keep this pace? We'll give him a 25 percent chance on the yards, but no more than a one percent chance on the TDs. Either way, Brees is putting up fantasy league winning numbers this year, much in the way that Manning did in 2004 and Brady in 2007.
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.
Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell was limited yet again at practice on Thursday due to a sore foot.
Pyro's Take:
Campbell injured the foot last week in the second quarter, but finished out the game anyway. He should be fine to play on Sunday, and could possibly be considered a starter for your fantasy team as he plays the Lions indoors.
Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb sat out practice again on Friday with a fractured rib. McNabb is listed as doubtful on the Eagles injury report and is not expected to suit up on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
The Eagles are looking to get McNabb back to full strength after their bye week in Week 4. Until then, expect Kevin Kolb to get the start behind center.
Jets rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez went through a full practice on Friday and is expected to start the game against the Titans on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Sanchez is just fine and will play against the Titans. The Dirty One could have a pretty good game on Sunday as the Titans boast the worst pass D in the NFL thus far.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (ribs) is officially listed as doubtful on the injury report, but Fox's Jay Glazer is reporting that Matt definitely will not play on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
We weren't expecting him to play, so the report from Jay is not surprising in the least. With Seneca Wallace at the helm, the only fantasy viable player on the team for Sunday's match-up with the Bears would be tight end John Carlson.
Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell is listed as probable on the injury report, but says he plans to start on Sunday. "It's a whole lot better," Campbell said. "I rested it a little and it got better during the week. It's good."
Pyro's Take:
Normally a third-string fantasy QB, this could be the one game in 2009 that you might consider putting him in your fantasy lineup. If you have unlimited pickups and he's out there to be had, depending on your other QBs, you might want to think about grabbing him for a week.
Buccaneers quarterback Byron Leftwich has been demoted to third string after being benched in the fourth quarter of Sunday's game against the Giants. Leftwich finished the game 7-of-16 passing for 22 yards and one interception.
Pyro's Take:
It's no surprise that coach Morris is yanking Big Lefty. The whole team should probably be yanked out of the NFL at this point actually. If you had Leftwich on your fantasy team, slap yourself, then drop him immediately.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington suffered a torn capsule in his throwing shoulder on Sunday and is likely done for the year. However, he is seeking a second opinion just to be sure.
Pyro's Take:
Chad hadn't been doing much this year for his 0-3 team, so it's just as well that strong-armed Chad Henne takes over the reins for the bottom-dwelling Dolphins. He might even be worth a pickup in fantasy leagues if you need a QB.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington suffered a torn capsule in his throwing shoulder on Sunday and is likely done for the year. However, he is seeking a second opinion just to be sure.
Pyro's Take:
Chad hadn't been doing much this year for his 0-3 team, so it's just as well that strong-armed Chad Henne takes over the reins for the bottom-dwelling Dolphins. He might even be worth a pickup in fantasy leagues if you need a QB.
What was first feared to be a torn rotator cuff, St. Louis Rams quarterback Marc Bulger's tests came back today to show that his throwing shoulder is merely bruised.
Pyro's Take:
We must admit, we're confused as to whether this is good or bad news for the Rams. Bulger has been awful, and though Kyle Boller played decent in relief on Sunday, he's worse than Bulger. Don't be goaded into picking Boller up on the waiver wire.
In his post-game press conference, Eagles coach Andy Reid stated that he fully expects quarterback Donovan McNabb (rib) to return after the Week 4 bye.
Pyro's Take:
McNabb will take back his starting gig the second he returns despite backup Kevin Kolb's two straight 300+ yard games. McNasty has a nice easy fantasy game as well as the Eagles face the Buccaneers in Week 5.
The Kansas City Chiefs traded quarterback Tyler Thigpen to the Miami Dolphins today for an undisclosed draft pick in the 2010 draft.
Pyro's Take:
With Chad Pennington lost for the year, the Dolphins needed to do something, and with the free agents floating around out there, one can't blame them for opting for a trade. Thigpen will be the backup to newly anointed starter Chad Henne and has no affect on fantasy football.
Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington (shoulder) was put on injured reserve Tuesday afternoon, thus ending his 2009 season.
Pyro's Take:
The move was made on the heels of the Tyler Thigpen trade as Miami needed to open a roster spot for their new backup QB. Neither Chad Henne or Thigpen should be on your fantasy football team at this point.
Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington (shoulder) was put on injured reserve Tuesday afternoon, thus ending his 2009 season.
Pyro's Take:
The move was made on the heels of the Tyler Thigpen trade as Miami needed to open a roster spot for their new backup QB. Neither Chad Henne or Thigpen should be on your fantasy football team at this point.
Eagles quarterback Jeff Garcia was released by the team on Tuesday.
Pyro's Take:
With Kevin Kolb proving his worth as a backup, Michael Vick coming back from suspension, and Donovan McNabb being expected back after their Week 4 bye, the Eagles no longer had any room for the aging vet. Feel free to dump him from your fantasy football team.
Eagles quarterback Jeff Garcia was released by the team on Tuesday.
Pyro's Take:
With Kevin Kolb proving his worth as a backup, Michael Vick coming back from suspension, and Donovan McNabb being expected back after their Week 4 bye, the Eagles no longer had any room for the aging vet. Feel free to dump him from your fantasy football team.
Eagles quarterback Jeff Garcia was released by the team on Tuesday.
Pyro's Take:
With Kevin Kolb proving his worth as a backup, Michael Vick coming back from suspension, and Donovan McNabb being expected back after their Week 4 bye, the Eagles no longer had any room for the aging vet. Feel free to dump him from your fantasy football team.
Eagles quarterback Jeff Garcia was released by the team on Tuesday.
Pyro's Take:
With Kevin Kolb proving his worth as a backup, Michael Vick coming back from suspension, and Donovan McNabb being expected back after their Week 4 bye, the Eagles no longer had any room for the aging vet. Feel free to dump him from your fantasy football team.
Rams wide receiver Donnie Avery took a shot to the ribs on Sunday that required X-rays, which turned out to be negative. "We think he's going to be OK," coach Steve Spagnuolo said. "He's a little bit sore."
Pyro's Take:
Avery has had an atrocious year thus far, but more due to the constant double-teams and a piss-poor quarterback than anything else. He's at best a bye week plug-in on your fantasy football team at this point.
Coach John Fox firmly stated on Wednesday after practice that Jake Delhomme is still the Panthers quarterback. "I didn't think that was a question, but if that needs to be clarified, yes with a capital Y," said Fox.
Pyro's Take:
BIG mistake Johnny. Get some cujones and yank that sorry-ass excuse for a QB. Second to last in QB rating (JaMarcus Russell is last) with seven INTs and two fumbles already?!?! Good lord!
If Delhomme is on your fantasy football team, you might have a future as the new Carolina head coach soon.
Cleveland Browns head coach Eric Mangini has named Derek Anderson his starting quarterback for the Week 4 game against the Bengals. "Giving Derek the opportunity is something I think will help us offensively," said Mangini.
Pyro's Take:
The Browns have one offensive touchdown in 2009 and the second fewest points (29) in the league (Rams, 24), so something needed to be done. Anderson, however, is not the answer. Not for the Browns, and not for your fantasy football team.
Cleveland Browns head coach Eric Mangini has named Derek Anderson his starting quarterback for the Week 4 game against the Bengals. "Giving Derek the opportunity is something I think will help us offensively," said Mangini.
Pyro's Take:
The Browns have one offensive touchdown in 2009 and the second fewest points (29) in the league (Rams, 24), so something needed to be done. Anderson, however, is not the answer. Not for the Browns, and not for your fantasy football team.
Seahawks coach Jim Mora said on Wednesday that the team plans to play their Week 4 game against the Colts without quarterback Matt Hasselbeck.
Pyro's Take:
Seneca Wallace didn't do a bad job filling in against the Bears last week, but Hasselbeck still gives the 'Hawks the best chance to win. Keep the aging vet on your fantasy football bench for the time being.
Browns wide receiver Braylon Edwards had a career year catching 16 touchdown passes in 2007 with Derek Anderson as the quarterback. "You know DA. He's a guy who likes to throw the deep ball, likes to get the ball out," Edwards said. "I like to run deep routes, so it's natural he'd look for me in those situations."
Pyro's Take:
Braylon has a point, and there's no denying the past, but the past is the past. The Browns have a new coach now, and more importantly, a different offensive coordinator than 2007, one who led the Browns to a ranking of 30th in passing TDs and 31st in passing yards last year.
Don't let your fantasy football team buy into the hype.
Browns wide receiver Braylon Edwards had a career year catching 16 touchdown passes in 2007 with Derek Anderson as the quarterback. "You know DA. He's a guy who likes to throw the deep ball, likes to get the ball out," Edwards said. "I like to run deep routes, so it's natural he'd look for me in those situations."
Pyro's Take:
Braylon has a point, and there's no denying the past, but the past is the past. The Browns have a new coach now, and more importantly, a different offensive coordinator than 2007, one who led the Browns to a ranking of 30th in passing TDs and 31st in passing yards last year.
Don't let your fantasy football team buy into the hype.
Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (ribs) has officially been ruled out for the game against the Colts on Sunday. "The holdup quite simply with Matt is that he can't run yet (and) when he takes deep breaths there is pain," coach Jim Mora said.
Pyro's Take:
Not a shock at all. He's old, he can't breathe, he can't run, he's out. Leave the quickly aging vet at the end of your fantasy football bench for awhile.
"I thought it would be a little better than it's feeling," Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell said. "I still feel it a little bit, but it was worse against Detroit. I'm not really worried about it."
Pyro's Take:
Campbell did well against a super-soft Detroit secondary, but they still lost the game. We expect the 'Skins to run like crazy in Week 4, so put Campbell back on your fantasy football bench.
Even though he wanted to test out his range of motion, the St. Louis Rams held quarterback Marc Bulger (shoulder) out of practice for a second straight day while Kyle Boller took the first-team reps.
Pyro's Take:
Boller gives the Rams a better chance to win right now, so holding Bulger out can only help the team. When we say "better chance", we mean a jump from 1 percent chance to 2 percent.
Rams quarterback Marc Bulger was unable to throw at practice on Friday, but did take some snaps of the ball. Bulger is listed as questionable on the team's injury report.
Pyro's Take:
Kyle Boller will be getting the start, which gives the Rams a slightly better chance to put up some points against the 'Niners. Either way, the Rams passing game is basically a fantasy football junkyard.
Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (ribs) has been declared inactive for the game against the Colts today. Seneca Wallace will again get the start in his place.
Pyro's Take:
Hasselbeck still isn't quite ready to go, so Wallace will have to do what he can for one more week. Wallace is not a good fantasy football play this Sunday against a tough Colts pass D.
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.
When asked about Kerry Collins and the Titans starting quarterback situation, head coach Jeff Fisher said "Kerry's our starter. Kerry gives us our best chance to win. That was my decision today, to stay with him and try and find a way to win."
Pyro's Take:
Sounds a little too wishy-washy for the normally balls-out Fisher. Come on Jeff, you're 0-4 with a 36-year old QB. Grab your cujones and turn to Vince Young already, will ya?
When asked about Kerry Collins and the Titans starting quarterback situation, head coach Jeff Fisher said "Kerry's our starter. Kerry gives us our best chance to win. That was my decision today, to stay with him and try and find a way to win."
Pyro's Take:
Sounds a little too wishy-washy for the normally balls-out Fisher. Come on Jeff, you're 0-4 with a 36-year old QB. Grab your cujones and turn to Vince Young already, will ya?
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.
Seahawks head coach Jim Mora said on Monday that quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (ribs) will practice on Wednesday, but that there are "no promises" he will play in Week 5.
Pyro's Take:
The Seahawks would really like to see their starting QB return as they have gone 0-2 without his services. Either way, keep him on your fantasy football bench until he gets his feet wet again.
Rams quarterback Marc Bulger (bruised rotator cuff) threw lightly while at the team's practice facility on Monday and will be "probably questionable" for Week 5 according to coach Steve Spagnuolo.
Pyro's Take:
Kyle Boller had himself a whopper of a game posting a 48.6 QB rating while putting up a goose-egg against the Niners on Sunday. Bulger's the better option, but neither are even mentionable in the world of fantasy football.
Lions coach Jim Schwartz told the media on Monday that quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee) is "day to day" at the moment and that the team would know more on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
Not the greatest of news for Stafford fantasy football owners, but not terrible either. We'll see on Wednesday if there's anything to the dislocation of his right kneecap story. Stay tuned.
Browns coach Eric Mangini is satisfied enough with the play of quarterback Derek Anderson to keep him the starter. "I thought he played really well. In terms of managing the game, there were some times where he checked a few things and got us into a good play," Mangini said.
Pyro's Take:
Whether it be Tweedledee or Tweedledum, love the one you're with, eh Man-gina?
Neither Anderson nor Brady Quinn are worth the piss in the pot in your fantasy football league.
Browns coach Eric Mangini is satisfied enough with the play of quarterback Derek Anderson to keep him the starter. "I thought he played really well. In terms of managing the game, there were some times where he checked a few things and got us into a good play," Mangini said.
Pyro's Take:
Whether it be Tweedledee or Tweedledum, love the one you're with, eh Man-gina?
Neither Anderson nor Brady Quinn are worth the piss in the pot in your fantasy football league.
The Cleveland Browns traded WR Chansi Stuckey, LB Jason Trusnik, and two non-first round draft picks to the Jets for wide receiver Braylon Edwards on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
Stuckey will likely be inserted into the starting lineup immediately, but with the quarterback situation in Cleveland, his fantasy football value takes a hit. He wasn't much more than a flex play before the trade and won't be more than that now.
Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner practiced in full pads during the Cards bye week and looks to be ready to go for the game against the Texans on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Warner has suffered a couple of stingers so far this season that were affecting his throwing arm, but that seems to be behind him now. Kurt should be a decent QB1 fantasy football play this weekend against a below-average Houston D.
Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb (ribs) will return to the field against the Buccaneers this weekend and make his first start behind center since Week 1.
Pyro's Take:
Kevin Kolb did a fine job filling in for the injured McNabb, but will rightfully return to the bench with the star QB being healthy again. McNabb looks to be a decent QB1 fantasy football play this weekend, despite the fact that he might wear a protective jacket during the game.
Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb (ribs) will return to the field against the Buccaneers this weekend and make his first start behind center since Week 1.
Pyro's Take:
Kevin Kolb did a fine job filling in for the injured McNabb, but will rightfully return to the bench with the star QB being healthy again. McNabb looks to be a decent QB1 fantasy football play this weekend, despite the fact that he might wear a protective jacket during the game.
Though he hasn't said so publicly, a league source says that Browns starting quarterback Derek Anderson is happy that receiver Braylon Edwards has been traded to the Jets.
Pyro's Take:
We're sure that the feeling is mutual buddy. Not just because you and that other crap QB (Brady Quinn) suck, but because your team sucks, your coach sucks, your organization sucks, your city sucks.....
Braylon's fantasy football value takes a jump up while Anderson's is still swirling around the toilet.
Though he hasn't said so publicly, a league source says that Browns starting quarterback Derek Anderson is happy that receiver Braylon Edwards has been traded to the Jets.
Pyro's Take:
We're sure that the feeling is mutual buddy. Not just because you and that other crap QB (Brady Quinn) suck, but because your team sucks, your coach sucks, your organization sucks, your city sucks.....
Braylon's fantasy football value takes a jump up while Anderson's is still swirling around the toilet.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning (plantar fasciitis) missed practice on Wednesday, but coach Tom Coughlin said that he could still play in Week 5 even if he doesn't practice all week. He'll likely be a game-time decision on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
We still believe it's a good idea to rest Eli for a bit, as backup David Carr should have no problem disposing of the lowly Raiders on Sunday. Either way, we suggest looking elsewhere for your starting fantasy football QB this week.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning (plantar fasciitis) missed practice on Wednesday, but coach Tom Coughlin said that he could still play in Week 5 even if he doesn't practice all week. He'll likely be a game-time decision on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
We still believe it's a good idea to rest Eli for a bit, as backup David Carr should have no problem disposing of the lowly Raiders on Sunday. Either way, we suggest looking elsewhere for your starting fantasy football QB this week.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning (plantar fasciitis) missed once again on Thursday to rest his ailing foot.
Pyro's Take:
He'll most likely miss practice all week and be a game-time decision on Sunday. If he ends up playing, we'd still suggest looking elsewhere on your fantasy football team for a starting QB. Check back Sunday morning to see if he's a go.
First overall pick in the draft, Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee), missed practice again on Thursday and is expected to miss the game on Sunday against the Steelers.
Pyro's Take:
Stafford hasn't even been cleared to run yet, so sit him on your fantasy football bench if you were playing him for any reason. Daunte Culpepper will get the start, but don't even consider him a pickup for any reason.
First overall pick in the draft, Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee), missed practice again on Thursday and is expected to miss the game on Sunday against the Steelers.
Pyro's Take:
Stafford hasn't even been cleared to run yet, so sit him on your fantasy football bench if you were playing him for any reason. Daunte Culpepper will get the start, but don't even consider him a pickup for any reason.
Rams quarterback Marc Bulger practiced in limited fashion all week and is listed as questionable on the team's injury report. Bulger, however, is expected to sit out one more week as he gains mobility in his throwing shoulder.
Pyro's Take:
Kyle Boller will get another start against a defense that could easily shut the Rams out as they were last week. There's not a single Ram that we can say should start for your fantasy football team this week. Not even Steven Jackson.
Vikings quarterback Brett Favre (foot) turned 40-years old today and for his birthday, the team gave him a "probable" label on their weekly injury report.
Pyro's Take:
Favre is just fine, for a 40-year old, and can be used as a decent QB1 on your fantasy football team this week as he faces the worst team in the league.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning (plantar fasciitis) took half of the first-team snaps in practice on Friday and coach Tom Coughlin said that he "did fine". Eli is listed as questionable on the injury report and will be a game-time decision.
Pyro's Take:
It's looking like Manning will play, but we doubt he'll be passing the ball very often. The Giants will likely run quite a bit against a weak Oakland rush D, so look for another fantasy football QB1 this week if possible.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford went through some individual drills on Friday, but is listed as questionable on the injury report and is expected to be inactive on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Coach Jim Schwartz doesn't want Pittsburgh to be able to game-plan one way or the other, so he's being aloof about Stafford's status. Check back Sunday morning to see if he's active, though we would sit him on your fantasy football bench regardless.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford went through some individual drills on Friday, but is listed as questionable on the injury report and is expected to be inactive on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Coach Jim Schwartz doesn't want Pittsburgh to be able to game-plan one way or the other, so he's being aloof about Stafford's status. Check back Sunday morning to see if he's active, though we would sit him on your fantasy football bench regardless.
Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (ribs) practiced in full both Thursday and Friday and is expected to get the start against the Jaguars on Sunday. He is currently listed as probable on the team's injury report.
Pyro's Take:
The Jaguars have an awful pass defense, so Hasselbeck might actually be considered for your fantasy football lineup. He may be a bit rusty, however, so if you have another option, we'd go with him.
Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb has been declared active and will start the game under center against the Bucs today.
Pyro's Take:
This has been expected all week, so if you have him on your fantasy football team, feel free to get him in there for a favorable match-up against the lowly Bucs.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford has been declared inactive for today's game against the Steelers. Daunte Culpepper will get the start in his place.
Pyro's Take:
This should be fun to watch. Culpepper should not be played in fantasy football leagues, and if you had Stafford in there starting for you for whatever reason, you should find someone else to plug in there immediately.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford has been declared inactive for today's game against the Steelers. Daunte Culpepper will get the start in his place.
Pyro's Take:
This should be fun to watch. Culpepper should not be played in fantasy football leagues, and if you had Stafford in there starting for you for whatever reason, you should find someone else to plug in there immediately.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning is active for the game against the Raiders today, and will supposedly start the game and play as long as he can.
Pyro's Take:
Coach Tom Coughlin might take it real easy on Manning today, so we'd suggest finding another QB option on your fantasy football team for today.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning thinks he'll be able to get in a full week of practice before the team's Week 6 match-up against the Saints.
Pyro's Take:
He's gonna need it too, as the Giants offense will need to be working on all cylinders to keep up with the Brees-led Saints. Eli figures to be a good fantasy football start again as this contest could very well be a shootout.
The Green Bay Packers got some help along the offensive line on Monday by re-signing OT Mark Tauscher and getting LT Chad Clifton (ankle) back at practice. Tauscher had off-season ACL surgery, but passed the team's physical.
Pyro's Take:
Aaron Rodgers has been sacked an unheard of 20 times already, so we're sure the young quarterback is happy as hell to hear the good news. Rodgers will continue as a QB1 for your fantasy football team going forward.
After Kyle Boller struggled and suffered a concussion against the Vikings on Sunday, the Rams fully expect quarterback Marc Bulger to take over as the starter again for the Week 6 game against the Jaguars.
Pyro's Take:
Even though the Jaguars defense has been abysmal this year, we still would have a tough time advocating a fantasy football start out of a Rams QB.
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.
Lions coach Jim Schwartz said on Monday that the team would not make a decision concerning the availability of quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee) until later in the week.
Pyro's Take:
We expect the Lions to make sure Stafford is completely healthy and hold their 2009 first overall pick out until after the Week 7 bye. Find another fantasy football option for Week 6 if you can.
Colts coach Jim Caldwell said that though quarterback Peyton Manning's knee is sore today, he would have received a report from the team doctor if there were any concern. "We have doctors that are there all the time. They certainly have taken a look at it," Caldwell said Monday.
Pyro's Take:
Manning has a bye this week to rest it up before the game against the Rams in Week 7, so no worries there. Peyton continues to be a fantasy football juggernaut and should be in your lineup every single week.
Despite putting forth one of the worst performances in QB history, Browns quarterback Derek Anderson will remain the starter according to coach Eric Mangini.
Pyro's Take:
"DA will continue to start," Mangini said without hesitation. "Some of the throws could've been better..." Granted, your receivers sucked badly Mr. Man-gina, but you didn't even pick this guy in the first place, and now you want to keep him as the starter?
No Browns player should be on your fantasy football team, save for maybe Jerome Harrison.
Despite putting forth one of the worst performances in QB history, Browns quarterback Derek Anderson will remain the starter according to coach Eric Mangini.
Pyro's Take:
"DA will continue to start," Mangini said without hesitation. "Some of the throws could've been better..." Granted, your receivers sucked badly Mr. Man-gina, but you didn't even pick this guy in the first place, and now you want to keep him as the starter?
No Browns player should be on your fantasy football team, save for maybe Jerome Harrison.
Buccaneers coach Raheem Morris stated on Monday that Josh Johnson will continue to be the team's quarterback and that rookie Josh Freeman needs to wait his turn. "You'll see Josh Johnson. Freeman's got to take advantage of the opportunity whenever it comes," Morris said.
Pyro's Take:
The Bucs are awful, so the time will come when they need to check out what they have in their first-round pick, Freeman. However, he probably won't be worth much in terms of fantasy football this year.
When asked by former coach Mike Holmgren on his radio show last week, Vikings quarterback Brett Favre typically avoided the question of if he would be back playing in 2010. "At some point it's got to end, and the thing is you never know unless you make that decision one way or the other," Favre said.
Pyro's Take:
Oh boy, here we go again. Do we really have to put up with this during the year now as well?
Favre has been throwing up some nice fantasy football numbers as of late and can be used as a nice QB2 on your team going forward.
The Saints waived rookie quarterback Chase Daniel on Monday to make room for kicker Garrett Hartley. Hartley will likely be the backup to John Carney for the starting kicker duties.
Pyro's Take:
Hartley is the future for the team, but Carney will continue to retain the starting job for now. Either one is a good fantasy football option with the amount that the Saints score each week.
The Saints waived rookie quarterback Chase Daniel on Monday to make room for kicker Garrett Hartley. Hartley will likely be the backup to John Carney for the starting kicker duties.
Pyro's Take:
Hartley is the future for the team, but Carney will continue to retain the starting job for now. Either one is a good fantasy football option with the amount that the Saints score each week.
Seahawks coach Jim Mora stated that quarterback Matt Hasselbeck appeared to be just fine on Monday and will not be limited in practice this upcoming week.
Pyro's Take:
Hasselbeck will be facing the Cardinals in Week 6, a team that gives up an insane 303 passing yards per game (worst in the NFL). He seems fine and in tune with his receivers, so feel free to get him in your fantasy football lineup this week.
It was revealed on Tuesday that the trade that brought quarterback Tyler Thigpen to the Dolphins from Kansas City was for a fifth-round draft pick in the 2010 NFL draft.
Pyro's Take:
Not that Thigpen is a total slouch, but the Chiefs should be happy to have picked up an extra fifth-round pick for the guy. This, of course, has no bearing on fantasy football whatsoever.
Browns quarterback Brady Quinn seems to believe that he'll be traded before the trade deadline on October 20th as he put his Avon Lake, Ohio, home up for sale Tuesday.
Pyro's Take:
Either that or he's just as normal as you or I in that he has no desire whatsoever to live around Cleveland. Quinn has every right to be pissed after losing his job three weeks into the season to a guy who went 2-of-17 on Sunday. He still has no fantasy football value however.
Despite a fifth straight loss to start the season, Titans coach Jeff Fisher reiterated that Kerry Collins is still the starting quarterback and that he will not be turning to Vince Young just yet.
"We have to improve as a team and that is what we are working on," Fisher said. "Kerry is not the reason. Our football team is the reason we're at where we're at, not the quarterback position."
Pyro's Take:
My goodness Jeff, what in the world are you smoking? Collins may not be the sole reason for your 0-5 record, but he hasn't helped, and VY could give the team the boost it needs to feel competitive again.
Young is still the QB on this team that holds the most fantasy football value.
Despite a fifth straight loss to start the season, Titans coach Jeff Fisher reiterated that Kerry Collins is still the starting quarterback and that he will not be turning to Vince Young just yet.
"We have to improve as a team and that is what we are working on," Fisher said. "Kerry is not the reason. Our football team is the reason we're at where we're at, not the quarterback position."
Pyro's Take:
My goodness Jeff, what in the world are you smoking? Collins may not be the sole reason for your 0-5 record, but he hasn't helped, and VY could give the team the boost it needs to feel competitive again.
Young is still the QB on this team that holds the most fantasy football value.
Chiefs coach Todd Haley said Monday in his weekly news conference that he wants to put more emphasis on the no-huddle offense going forward after seeing the Chiefs put up a season-high 20 points using it against the Cowboys on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
At least the Chiefs found something that works, even if they didn't win the game. This bodes well for quarterback Matt Cassel and wide receiver Dwayne Bowe and can boost them up the fantasy football chain if the situation sticks.
Chiefs coach Todd Haley said Monday in his weekly news conference that he wants to put more emphasis on the no-huddle offense going forward after seeing the Chiefs put up a season-high 20 points using it against the Cowboys on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
At least the Chiefs found something that works, even if they didn't win the game. This bodes well for quarterback Matt Cassel and wide receiver Dwayne Bowe and can boost them up the fantasy football chain if the situation sticks.
Rams beat writer Jim Thomas believes that if quarterback Marc Bulger experiences no setbacks to his shoulder this week in practice, he'll resume his starting role in Week 6 against the Jaguars.
Pyro's Take:
It's a rarity to even think of starting Bulger on your fantasy football team, but this might be a week to consider it against an awful Jaguars D.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning (plantar fasciitis) will be out on the practice field today on a limited basis as the team prepares for the Saints this weekend. "Hopefully we can build up as we go along," coach Tom Coughlin said.
Pyro's Take:
The Giants are gonna need Eli to put up points against the offensive beast that is the Saints. Get him in your fantasy football lineup this weekend if he turns out to be healthy.
Both Browns quarterback Brady Quinn and coach Eric Mangini claim they no nothing about a trade of any kind. "We're not looking to move Brady Quinn," said Mangini, while Brady says "I have a contract with the Browns and I intend to play that out."
Pyro's Take:
Quinn claims he put his home up for sale because he's a bachelor and can't deal with the upkeep of his 5-bedroom house. His fantasy football value still stands at None at this point.
Lions rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee) took snaps with the first-team offense at practice on Wednesday and didn't seem to look limited in any way during drills.
Pyro's Take:
This doesn't necessarily mean that the first overall pick will be starting this week against the Pack, but it's progress nonetheless. If Megatron can't go on Sunday, Stafford isn't playable on your fantasy football team anyway.
With the talent the Packers have at wide receiver, along with the troubles they've had along the offensive line, quarterback Aaron Rodgers will resort back to throwing the short, quick pass and let his receivers do the work from there.
Pyro's Take:
This sort of game suits the Packers well, especially for Rodgers, Greg Jennings, Donald Driver, and Ryan Grant. With the offensive line getting help off the bye week, look for each of these players fantasy football numbers to improve going forward.
With the talent the Packers have at wide receiver, along with the troubles they've had along the offensive line, quarterback Aaron Rodgers will resort back to throwing the short, quick pass and let his receivers do the work from there.
Pyro's Take:
This sort of game suits the Packers well, especially for Rodgers, Greg Jennings, Donald Driver, and Ryan Grant. With the offensive line getting help off the bye week, look for each of these players fantasy football numbers to improve going forward.
With the talent the Packers have at wide receiver, along with the troubles they've had along the offensive line, quarterback Aaron Rodgers will resort back to throwing the short, quick pass and let his receivers do the work from there.
Pyro's Take:
This sort of game suits the Packers well, especially for Rodgers, Greg Jennings, Donald Driver, and Ryan Grant. With the offensive line getting help off the bye week, look for each of these players fantasy football numbers to improve going forward.
When asked what he would say if the Bears management came to him about making a trade for Bills wide receiver Terrell Owens, quarterback Jay Cutler said: "I don't think they're going to. I think they'll do that upstairs."
Also when asked if he had tweeted or texted Owens, Cutler simply said that he didn't know him.
Pyro's Take:
As unlikely as it is, the move would be certainly be intriguing. However, the Bears receiving corps has done better than expected this year, and with the Bears passing up numerous chances at grabbing other veteran receivers up 'til now, it's hard to see them finally making a move on a cancer such as TO.
When asked what he would say if the Bears management came to him about making a trade for Bills wide receiver Terrell Owens, quarterback Jay Cutler said: "I don't think they're going to. I think they'll do that upstairs."
Also when asked if he had tweeted or texted Owens, Cutler simply said that he didn't know him.
Pyro's Take:
As unlikely as it is, the move would be certainly be intriguing. However, the Bears receiving corps has done better than expected this year, and with the Bears passing up numerous chances at grabbing other veteran receivers up 'til now, it's hard to see them finally making a move on a cancer such as TO.
Rams quarterback Marc Bulger took all of the first-team snaps in practice on Wednesday and is almost assured of getting the start in Week 6 against the Jaguars.
Pyro's Take:
Kyle Boller had himself a nice concussion on Sunday, and even though he passed baseline test to practice, Bulger will still get the start and is a decent fantasy football play this weekend against a horrid Jags D.
During the 4th quarter of Sunday's game against the Eagles, Buccaneers coach Raheem Morris considered getting quarterback Josh Freeman his first snaps as a pro, but thought better of it with the Eagles blitzing all the time.
Pyro's Take:
"He could play right now," offensive coordinator Greg Olson said Wednesday. "He's getting reps, we're sharing reps in practice right now between he and Josh Johnson."
He probably doesn't have any fantasy value this year, but it should be interesting to see how the Bucs first-round pick does for the future.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning (plantar fasciitis) was limited at practice again on Thursday.
Pyro's Take:
Manning won't miss the battle of the undefeateds this Sunday, guaranteed. The game could become a shootout, so feel free to start him on your fantasy football team this Sunday and have a blast watching the points fly.
Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (ribs) says that he's finally pain-free after suffering two broken ribs in Week 2 of the season.
Pyro's Take:
The 'Hawks are a much better team with Hasselbeck under center as they've put up 28 and 41 points and won both the games he's completed. Feel free to start him against a terrible Arizona pass D this week.
Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson and quarterback Matthew Stafford will both check their injured right knees this morning before the match-up against Green Bay, but neither is expected to be made active for the game.
Pyro's Take:
Both guys are listed as doubtful, and we'd be shocked if either one is risked on a day when their knees are likely to stiffen up in the cold. The Lions also have a bye next week to get them healthy. Bench these two on your fantasy football teams today.
Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson and quarterback Matthew Stafford will both check their injured right knees this morning before the match-up against Green Bay, but neither is expected to be made active for the game.
Pyro's Take:
Both guys are listed as doubtful, and we'd be shocked if either one is risked on a day when their knees are likely to stiffen up in the cold. The Lions also have a bye next week to get them healthy. Bench these two on your fantasy football teams today.
Much to the delight of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, tackle Chad Clifton has been declared active for the game against the Lions today.
Pyro's Take:
The Packers desperately need Clifton to play at full speed as Rodgers has been pleading for his life every week since he went out. Rodgers fantasy football value just took a hike up with the good news along his offensive line.
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.
Lions rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee) has been declared inactive for the inner-division match-up against the Packers today.
Pyro's Take:
This was expected as the Lions want to get their trillion dollar QB healthy for the rest of the year. Take him out of your fantasy lineup if you had him in there.
Rams quarterback Marc Bulger is active and will start the game against the Jaguars today.
Pyro's Take:
Bulger gives the Rams the best chance at victory against a weak Jags D, but still probably shouldn't be used on your fantasy football team unless you have to.
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.
Bills quarterback Trent Edwards (concussion) was said to need further evaluation on his head before the team would commit to him playing or not next week. "We'll take that day to day and see how he comes out of this thing," coach Dick Jauron said.
Pyro's Take:
The Bills are in shambles, regardless of the OT victory on Sunday. Edwards gives the team only a slightly better chance to win over Ryan Fitzpatrick, while both of them are just outside of fantasy football roster consideration.
Redskins coach Jim Zorn stated on Monday that as of now, he is unsure who his starting quarterback will be next Monday night against the Eagles, Jason Campbell or Todd Collins.
Pyro's Take:
Yea or Nay: Jim Zorn will be around later in the week to make that decision?
Campbell is awful, Collins will be 38 in a couple weeks, and Joe Theismann is still rehabbing his broken leg. We're betting on Theismann.
Redskins coach Jim Zorn stated on Monday that as of now, he is unsure who his starting quarterback will be next Monday night against the Eagles, Jason Campbell or Todd Collins.
Pyro's Take:
Yea or Nay: Jim Zorn will be around later in the week to make that decision?
Campbell is awful, Collins will be 38 in a couple weeks, and Joe Theismann is still rehabbing his broken leg. We're betting on Theismann.
Browns coach Eric Mangini stated for the record on Monday that he is "not looking to make a move [at quarterback]" despite Derek Anderson's second straight horrible outing.
Pyro's Take:
Brady Quinn has to be pulling his hair out over this. Anderson has proven that he's obviously not the answer for the Browns, yet the big Man-gina still sticks with him. Fantasy football should not even be mentioned with these two QBs.
Browns coach Eric Mangini stated for the record on Monday that he is "not looking to make a move [at quarterback]" despite Derek Anderson's second straight horrible outing.
Pyro's Take:
Brady Quinn has to be pulling his hair out over this. Anderson has proven that he's obviously not the answer for the Browns, yet the big Man-gina still sticks with him. Fantasy football should not even be mentioned with these two QBs.
For the first time since the questions started coming in, coach Jeff Fisher did not discuss the Titans quarterback situation after the game. The Titans have a bye in Week 7 to figure out who their start will be.
Pyro's Take:
There wasn't much that Vince Young could do against the Patriots on Sunday, but whatever he would have done, it would have had to have been better than what Kerry Collins did. Look for the change at QB to be made in Week 8, and consider picking Vince Young up on the waiver wire if he's still there.
For the first time since the questions started coming in, coach Jeff Fisher did not discuss the Titans quarterback situation after the game. The Titans have a bye in Week 7 to figure out who their start will be.
Pyro's Take:
There wasn't much that Vince Young could do against the Patriots on Sunday, but whatever he would have done, it would have had to have been better than what Kerry Collins did. Look for the change at QB to be made in Week 8, and consider picking Vince Young up on the waiver wire if he's still there.
Lions quarterback Daunte Culpepper said that the injury he suffered on Sunday was only a "slight pull" of his right hamstring.
"I felt it kind of tweak, and I think the best thing I did was I pulled up when I was running," Culpepper said. "Had I continued to run, I might've severely pulled it. It's a tweak right now and we'll see how it feels tomorrow and the next day."
Pyro's Take:
What more could happen to hapless Lions? Did the Matt Millen experiment curse them for life?
Nobody seems to know the true prognosis of Stafford's injury, and now with Culpooper injured, does Drew Stanton finally get his shot? Stay tuned to this both real and fantasy football nightmare team.
Lions quarterback Daunte Culpepper said that the injury he suffered on Sunday was only a "slight pull" of his right hamstring.
"I felt it kind of tweak, and I think the best thing I did was I pulled up when I was running," Culpepper said. "Had I continued to run, I might've severely pulled it. It's a tweak right now and we'll see how it feels tomorrow and the next day."
Pyro's Take:
What more could happen to hapless Lions? Did the Matt Millen experiment curse them for life?
Nobody seems to know the true prognosis of Stafford's injury, and now with Culpooper injured, does Drew Stanton finally get his shot? Stay tuned to this both real and fantasy football nightmare team.
When asked about the status of wide receiver Chaz Schilens for Week 7, Raiders coach Tom Cable said “Chaz Schilens (foot) will be back and ready to go.”
Pyro's Take:
That is just wonderful Tom. Too bad you start a quarterback that couldn't hit a horse in stride if he tried. Schilens, or any Raiders player for that matter, should never get a start on your fantasy football team.
Jets rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez is having some trouble adjusting to the different coverages defenses are showing due to Braylon Edwards being on the field. "You see different coverages now, more two-deep," coach Rex Ryan said. "The reads, they take longer."
Pyro's Take:
The Dirty One will eventually get used to it, but it might take longer than his rookie year to do so. It looks like the addition of Edwards both adds to his fantasy football value and subtracts at the same time. Keep him benched until he figures it out.
Buccaneers coach Raheem Morris is hesitant to put rookie QB Josh Freeman in for Week 7 because of the short preparation week. The Bucs fly to London to take on the Patriots this weekend.
Pyro's Take:
"Josh Freeman's got to wait his turn," Morris said.
Don't expect this to be a long wait, however, as the Bucs could insert him into the starting lineup as soon as Week 9 (after the team's bye in Week 8).
Buccaneers quarterback Josh Johnson will continue to be the team's starter under center for at least another week according to coach Raheem Morris. "Josh (Johnson) is the quarterback. We got a short week going. It's New England... Josh has to focus on playing well while he's in there."
Pyro's Take:
Johnson has performed as well as can be expected since taking over the starting job in Week 4, but he's not the answer to the Bucs woes. The team will see what their first-round pick Josh Freeman has to offer soon enough, possibly in Week 9.
A league source told NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora that Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell will remain the starter for the Monday night game against the Eagles this week.
Pyro's Take:
Is Campbell a better option than Todd Collins? Maybe, but that offense is in such disarray at this point that it probably won't matter. Neither QB should be on your fantasy football squad.
A league source told NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora that Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell will remain the starter for the Monday night game against the Eagles this week.
Pyro's Take:
Is Campbell a better option than Todd Collins? Maybe, but that offense is in such disarray at this point that it probably won't matter. Neither QB should be on your fantasy football squad.
The Chicago Bears signed quarterback Jay Cutler to a two-year, $30 million contract extension on Tuesday, thus keeping the young gunslinger in town through 2013. The deal included $20 million in guaranteed money.
Pyro's Take:
The Bears end up with somewhat of a steal here with Cutler getting around $50 million from now to 2013. There were skeptics and naysayers galore when the Bears gave up the farm for him in the off-season, but Cutler has more than proved his worth and will now be the focal point of the Bears offense for years to come.
Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (ankle) has decided to take the team's bye week off to rest his swollen ankle.
Pyro's Take:
Flacco had his foot stepped on a couple times in last week's game against the Vikings, but he should be okay to face the Broncos in Week 8. Flacco has (surprisingly) become a fantasy football starting QB this year, so check back with us on his progress.
Giants QB Eli Manning (plantar fasciitis) was limited at practice on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
This can be an expected occurrence on Wednesdays for awhile to keep the star quarterback healthy. He has a very favorable match-up against the Cardinals this week and should be started in every fantasy football format.
Bills quarterback Trent Edwards (concussion) missed practice on Wednesday and looks to be highly doubtful for the game on Sunday against the Panthers.
Pyro's Take:
If Edwards can't go, which he won't, Ryan Fitzpatrick will get the start. You can't get much worse than what Edwards has done so far this year, so might as well see if the Harvard grad has learned how to play football yet. He's not worth fantasy consideration just yet.
Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme hasn't thrown a touchdown pass to a wide receiver this year and is tied for the league lead with rookie Mark Sanchez with 10 interceptions. “It's a work in progress,” Delhomme said. “We're all trying to get better. I'll raise my hand, I'm the first one trying to work to get us better, get everybody on the same page.”
Pyro's Take:
A work in progress Jake? You've basically been playing with the same receivers now since 2003. It's time to admit you're finished and move on. If you have him on your fantasy football team, you should probably move on as well.
Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (ankle) won't practice over the bye week due to soreness in his ankle, but will resume normal activity on Monday. "I could play today if we had to," Flacco said Wednesday. "It's no big deal."
Pyro's Take:
Flacco's ankle will be fine, so no worries there. The big question is if Joey can keep up the fantasy football QB1 type stats he's putting up for the rest of the year. We're betting he can. He's just one of those guys that has "it", whatever that "it" is.
Bills quarterback Trent Edwards (concussion) was back at the Bills facility Thursday, but was there to see the team doctors, not to practice. “He’s doing better. He’s feeling better, but he’s not practicing obviously,” coach Dick Jauron said.
Pyro's Take:
Ryan Fitzpatrick took all the first-team reps again today and looks like he'll be the starter on Sunday. Neither he nor Edwards were playable on your fantasy football team regardless.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee) joined his teammates for a light workout this morning and threw a few passes, but did not practice with the team afterward.
Pyro's Take:
The Lions are on a bye this week, so this will be a good time to figure out just how severe Stafford's knee injury really is. Stay tuned throughout the next 10 days or so.
Lions quarterback Daunte Culpepper (hamstring) did not practice Thursday as the team worked out in helmets and shorts.
Pyro's Take:
The Lions might be best off letting Drew Stanton take over under center for a few weeks anyway. Stafford needs to get healthy, and Culps just needs to retire.
Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell expressed his pleasure at getting his preseason favorite target, wide receiver Chaz Schilens, back in the fold Thursday.
“(It’s) like he hasn’t missed a beat,” Russell said. “Just had to get back used to him running certain routes but other than that he’s looking good.”
Pyro's Take:
If this were any other team with any other QB, we might get excited about this... but it's JaMarcus Russell we're talking about here. Give it a week or two to find out if Schilens is worth a look for your fantasy football team going forward.
Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell expressed his pleasure at getting his preseason favorite target, wide receiver Chaz Schilens, back in the fold Thursday.
“(It’s) like he hasn’t missed a beat,” Russell said. “Just had to get back used to him running certain routes but other than that he’s looking good.”
Pyro's Take:
If this were any other team with any other QB, we might get excited about this... but it's JaMarcus Russell we're talking about here. Give it a week or two to find out if Schilens is worth a look for your fantasy football team going forward.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning (plantar fasciitis) was a full participant in practice on Thursday.
Pyro's Take:
Looking for some payback for last week and going up against one of the weaker pass defenses in the league makes Eli a must-start for your fantasy football team this weekend.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee) said that he has no problem walking around, but that he hasn't got to the point where he's comfortable running yet. The Lions will let him rest during the bye week and likely put him back on the practice field next week.
Pyro's Take:
The Lions have no hope for the playoffs, so there's really no reason to rush the future of the franchise back. Keep Stafford on your fantasy football bench for now, but keep an eye on the waiver wire for someone to grab if he needs to be dropped sometime soon.
Bills quarterback Trent Edwards (concussion) did not practice at all this week and has now been ruled out for the Week 7 match-up against the Panthers.
Pyro's Take:
This was an obvious call for the Bills, as Edwards may not be able to play in Week 8 either. Ryan Fitzpatrick now has the keys to the Bills clunker offense, but neither QB is fantasy football material.
Titans quarterback Kerry Collins has passed for just 1,071 yards in six game and thrown more interceptions (eight) than touchdowns (five).
"Kerry's not playing Peyton Manningesque right now, but he's not playing bad," OC Mike Heimerdinger said. "We're just not making plays to help the guy."
Pyro's Take:
Why coach Jeff Fisher hasn't turned to Vince Young yet is beyond our understanding. They will, however, and when they do, VY will finally have some fantasy football value.
Titans quarterback Kerry Collins has passed for just 1,071 yards in six game and thrown more interceptions (eight) than touchdowns (five).
"Kerry's not playing Peyton Manningesque right now, but he's not playing bad," OC Mike Heimerdinger said. "We're just not making plays to help the guy."
Pyro's Take:
Why coach Jeff Fisher hasn't turned to Vince Young yet is beyond our understanding. They will, however, and when they do, VY will finally have some fantasy football value.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning (plantar fasciitis) is being listed as probable on the team's injury report and is expected to play on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Eli will play, so be sure to get him in your fantasy football lineup as this game could turn into a shootout real quick.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee) was not at the early portion of practice on Friday and turned down interview requests afterward.
Pyro's Take:
Can you blame him? How many times can you be asked the same question just to give the same answers everyone already knows.
We'll continue to update you on his situation as REAL reports come along.
After sitting out practice on Thursday, Lions quarterback Daunte Culpepper (hamstring) returned to take part in drills with the team on Friday.
Pyro's Take:
Bummer. We would have loved to have seen Drew Stanton lead this team in Week 8, but now it looks as if Culps will be able to make a go of it. He's still not a viable fantasy football option at this point.
49ers coach Mike Singletary announced on Monday that quarterback Alex Smith will be the team's new starting QB beginning in Week 8 against the Colts.
Pyro's Take:
Good call Samurai. Hill wasn't getting the job done, and with Smith almost single-handedly bringing the team back from a 21-0 deficit, he deserves this shot. With those receivers, Smith will be a decent backup fantasy football QB going forward.
49ers coach Mike Singletary announced on Monday that quarterback Alex Smith will be the team's new starting QB beginning in Week 8 against the Colts.
Pyro's Take:
Good call Samurai. Hill wasn't getting the job done, and with Smith almost single-handedly bringing the team back from a 21-0 deficit, he deserves this shot. With those receivers, Smith will be a decent backup fantasy football QB going forward.
According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, Browns coach Eric Mangini is not considering making a move at the quarterback position because he already knows what Brady Quinn can (and can't) do.
Pyro's Take:
While we tend to agree that Quinn is not the answer, Anderson has gone above and beyond the call of duty to show that he certainly is not the answer either. So once again, what's a big Man-gina to do?
According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, Browns coach Eric Mangini is not considering making a move at the quarterback position because he already knows what Brady Quinn can (and can't) do.
Pyro's Take:
While we tend to agree that Quinn is not the answer, Anderson has gone above and beyond the call of duty to show that he certainly is not the answer either. So once again, what's a big Man-gina to do?
Bills quarterback Trent Edwards (concussion) was cleared to return to practice according to coach Dick Jauron, but Ryan Fitzpatrick will still be the starter next week as the Bills play it cautious with Edwards' head.
Pyro's Take:
When asked what they'll do once Edwards is completely healthy, Jauron said "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it". Basically, we have a QB controversy in Buffalo, though neither one is worth having on your fantasy football team at this point.
When asked on Monday about his quarterback situation, Panthers coach John Fox didn't say if he planned on replacing QB Jake Delhomme or not, but did say that the team needed to see improvement in the passing game.
Pyro's Take:
That's funny, there seems to be a delayed echo of some sort as the whole sporting world has been saying the same thing for years now. The problem is that Carolina doesn't employ a backup worth playing (Matt Moore or A.J. Feeley).
Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell was confused as to why coach Tom Cable replaced him in the first half of Sunday's game, but Cable had a talk with him and set him straight. "I think talking to him today, he's pretty clear on what went on," Cable said Monday.
Pyro's Take:
Two interceptions and a lost fumble in just 24 minutes of play and you're confused JaMamma? We're guessing Cable used some simple terminology in his talk with him... as in "you suck", or something to that effect.
Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell told the media after the loss Monday night that he sprained his right ankle on third play from scrimmage but continued to play the rest of the game.
Pyro's Take:
It was obvious that he was hobbling around, but the excuses for poor play are starting to run a little thin for Campbell. He continues to be no more than a third string fantasy football QB.
Bills coach Dick Jauron has already declared quarterback Trent Edwards (concussion) out for Sunday's game against the Texans. "Trent will not play this week... that's the proper protocol," said Jauron.
Pyro's Take:
If Ryan Fitzpatrick can get another win this Sunday, Edwards may end up the backup for the rest of the year. Trent was at best an emergency start on your fantasy football team anyway.
When asked about Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (ankle) and his mobility, Harbaugh said: "I don't know. He looked all right. He's fine. You guys will see him in practice on Wednesday. He's Joe."
Pyro's Take:
There was never really that big a concern over the injury, so continue to start one of the bigger surprises of the year on your fantasy football team.
Lions quarterback and first-overall pick in the 2009 draft, Matthew Stafford (knee), returned to take part in at least the individual portion of practice on Tuesday. His status for Sunday's game won't be known until doctors check for swelling on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
If there's swelling, he'll be shut down again and won't play Sunday. If the knee reacts well, he'll continue to practice and go from there. It should also be noted that Stafford was seen to have some mobility, but that "he didn't look totally comfortable or fluid" during his individual drills.
We'll update you throughout the week, but keep him on your fantasy football bench until otherwise noted.
When asked how practice went on Tuesday, Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford had this to say: "I was limited," he said. "I didn't get all the reps, but I took a few. This is the most I've done on it, and it felt pretty good."
Pyro's Take:
Well, we'll see how his knee reacts tomorrow. If it swells up after a week of rest and just a limited practice, we might see the youngster go in for surgery sometime soon. If not, we'll update you on his progress the next day.
Panthers coach John Fox announced today that he is sticking with quarterback Jake Delhomme as his starter for the Week 8 game against the Cardinals.
Pyro's Take:
Delhomme has a 56.5 QB rating and has yet to throw more TDs than INTs in a game so far this year. Are Matt Moore and A.J. Feeley that bad?
Look for either Fox or Delhomme to have their lights turned out by Steve Smith sometime in the near future...
"Josh Freeman will take over as the starting quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers... it's time to see a little Josh Freeman," coach Raheem Morris said on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
OC Greg Olson also leaked out that Freeman has gained some weight since being drafted. "He's probably 265 pounds," Olson said. "He's right in there. He's big. He's more than [the 248 listed on the roster]."
So Freeman comes in at the exact same size as JaMamma Russell. Great. Not the most promising statistic to reveal Greg.
Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (ribs) was given the day off to rest his sore ribs on Wednesday. "We're going to give him today to rest and recover," coach Jim Mora said. "But it is not anything that will keep him from playing Sunday at full strength."
Pyro's Take:
Our guess is that with his blind-side tackle Walter Jones being put on injured reserve today, Hasselbeck is taking the day off to decide whether he wants to risk his life the rest of this year or not. Either way, he's a risky fantasy football play this week against Dallas.
Titans coach Jeff Fisher won't wait until Sunday to announce his starting QB as was expected. Fisher said today that he will make the decision after practice on Thursday whether it will be Vince Young or Kerry Collins and let the media know.
Pyro's Take:
Though the whole sporting world thinks it should be Vince Young, it will likely still be Collins under center come Sunday. Why, we have no idea.
Vince has the greater fantasy upside if you're willing to take the risk in grabbing him.
Titans coach Jeff Fisher won't wait until Sunday to announce his starting QB as was expected. Fisher said today that he will make the decision after practice on Thursday whether it will be Vince Young or Kerry Collins and let the media know.
Pyro's Take:
Though the whole sporting world thinks it should be Vince Young, it will likely still be Collins under center come Sunday. Why, we have no idea.
Vince has the greater fantasy upside if you're willing to take the risk in grabbing him.
Despite coach Dick Jauron already ruling him out for this week's game, Bills quarterback Trent Edwards (concussion) returned to practice with the team in a limited fashion on Wednesday.
Pyro's Take:
That's good news as concussions, especially two within a year, are very tough to deal with. He may never win his job back, however, and may be gun-shy even if he does. Don't be afraid to drop him from your fantasy football squad if you still have him.
According to the Nashville Tennessean, the Titans will make the switch at quarterback and start Vince Young in place of Kerry Collins.
Pyro's Take:
The official announcement won't come until later today after the Titans practice, but we don't see how coach Jeff Fisher can keep playing a 36-year old has-been who has led the team to an 0-6 start over the possible future of the franchise Vince Young.
We'll let you know the official word later today.
According to the Nashville Tennessean, the Titans will make the switch at quarterback and start Vince Young in place of Kerry Collins.
Pyro's Take:
The official announcement won't come until later today after the Titans practice, but we don't see how coach Jeff Fisher can keep playing a 36-year old has-been who has led the team to an 0-6 start over the possible future of the franchise Vince Young.
We'll let you know the official word later today.
Lions rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee) practiced for the third consecutive day on Thursday and looks to be in line to start on Sunday against the Rams.
Pyro's Take:
Nothing is official yet, as Stafford had only gone through limited practices on Tuesday and Wednesday, but it's looking good for the first-overall pick. We'll let you know if you can get him in your fantasy football lineup against a weak Rams D when the word comes out.
Titans coach Jeff Fisher confirmed after practice today that quarterback Vince Young will take over as the team's starter in Week 8 against the Jaguars.
Pyro's Take:
Nice of you to join us back in the land of No Shit!, Mr. Fisher. Kerry Collins has been dreadful in leading the 13-3 2008 Titans to an 0-6 start this year, so the switch to the younger, more versatile Vinsanity was just a matter of time. Go ahead and grab Young off the waiver wire in your fantasy football league as he has infinitely more value than Collins ever did.
Titans coach Jeff Fisher confirmed after practice today that quarterback Vince Young will take over as the team's starter in Week 8 against the Jaguars.
Pyro's Take:
Nice of you to join us back in the land of No Shit!, Mr. Fisher. Kerry Collins has been dreadful in leading the 13-3 2008 Titans to an 0-6 start this year, so the switch to the younger, more versatile Vinsanity was just a matter of time. Go ahead and grab Young off the waiver wire in your fantasy football league as he has infinitely more value than Collins ever did.
Vikings quarterback Brett Favre (hip) was limited once again at practice on Thursday.
Pyro's Take:
Our guess is that he took half the day taking and making calls about getting tickets for all his old hunting buddies. No worries, he's playing, and will be a nice fantasy football QB1 this weekend against his old team.
When asked how the switch to quarterback Alex Smith will change what the team does on offense, 49ers OC Jimmy Raye replied with a simple "None".
Pyro's Take:
Coaches will be coaches. They take a lot of pride in what they do, but the fact is, Smith has a much better arm than Shaun Hill did, so the team will almost certainly air the ball out more, especially with Vernon Davis playing lights-out and Michael Crabtree in the mix.
Pick up Smith and give yourself a nice QB2 for your fantasy football team.
Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (foot) was limited in practice again on Thursday, which led coach Mike McCarthy to say this: "There's certain things that bother it, and we're just being smart through Wednesday and Thursday... It's very similar to where he was last week."
Pyro's Take:
Sounds like Rodgers will play, and should be a real nice fantasy football start this week against a Vikings team he threw for 384 yards and two TDs against in Week 4.
Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (ankle) has been a full participant in practice both Wednesday and Thursday this week.
Pyro's Take:
Looks like the bye week did Flacco's tweaked ankle some good. Denver has a great defense this year, but Flacco has been on fire, so go ahead and get him in your fantasy football lineup this weekend.
After being limited the past two days, Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (foot) went through a full practice on Friday and is being listed as probable on the team's injury report.
Pyro's Take:
Rodgers is just fine and will be a great QB1 for your fantasy football team this weekend. Get him in your lineup if you had him out.
Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (ankle) went through a full practice on Friday and is being listed as probable on the team's injury report for this weekend.
Pyro's Take:
Flacco is just fine and has become a starter for fantasy football leagues this year. However, he has a tough match-up against the Broncos on Sunday, so if you have a better or equal option on your bench, you might want to think about starting him instead.
Vikings quarterback Brett Favre (hip) is being listed as probable on the team's injury report for the game against the Packers at his old stomping ground on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
This is just ridiculous. No one in the sporting world is even remotely close to thinking that Favre won't play in this game. However, Brad Childress seems like a pretty dull guy, so this could just be his grand attempt at cracking a joke.
Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (ribs) practiced in full again on Friday and is set to start against the Cowboys on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
He's listed as probable on the injury report and said he was still sore earlier this week, but he'll be in there Sunday. We'd probably stay away from playing him on your fantasy football team, however, as the Cowboys will look to put the hurt on him with a heavy pass rush this weekend.
Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (ankle) has been declared active for the game against the Broncos today.
Pyro's Take:
Flacco has been practicing all week after tweaking his ankle two weeks ago against the Vikings. It's a tough match-up for him going against the Broncos, so if you have another option, you might want to think about going with that in your fantasy football lineup today.
Bills quarterback Trent Edwards (concussion) is inactive for the game against the Texans today. Ryan Fitzpatrick will start in his place.
Pyro's Take:
If Fitzpatrick can put another W up on the board today, Trent may not play another game this year. He wasn't worth much in the world of fantasy football anyway, but if you have him on your team, check the score of this game later and drop him off your team if the Bills win.
Bills quarterback Trent Edwards (concussion) is expected to be ready to take back his starting job against the Titans when the team returns from their Week 9 bye.
Pyro's Take:
Ryan Fitzpatrick looked more like Ryan Leaf than anything else in his short stint as the Bills starter. Trent hasn't been much better, but he has more fantasy football value than Fitz does for sure.
Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (ribs) was sacked three times and knocked around a bunch versus the Cowboys, but said after the game that he feels fine.
Pyro's Take:
Both we and Hasselbeck knew the Cowboys were going to put pressure on him Sunday, so he likely wore extra padding during the game to counteract it. Matt ended up with a decent fantasy game with 249 yards and two TDs despite the Seahawks loss.
According to Giants quarterback Eli Manning (plantar fasciitis), his recent struggles have nothing to do with his injured right foot. "That's not an excuse I can fall on," Manning said. "It's not bothering me at all."
Pyro's Take:
We were telling anyone in the fantasy football world who would listen to sell high on this guy, as his stats over his career show that injury or no injury, he falls off the mountain every single year after the first four games of the season. Hopefully some of you listened...
After yet another disgusting performance by Browns quarterback Derek Anderson, coach Eric Mangini still would not commit to making a change at the position. "We'll look at it. At everything. We'll look at every single position," Mangini said when asked who would start after the team's Week 9 bye.
Pyro's Take:
Anderson has played in six games this year and in just one of those games did he end up with a QB rating over 51.0. The big Man-gina has been adamant about not playing Quinn since yanking him in the middle of the Week 3 game, but something's gotta give. Either way, neither one is worth a second of your fantasy football time.
After yet another disgusting performance by Browns quarterback Derek Anderson, coach Eric Mangini still would not commit to making a change at the position. "We'll look at it. At everything. We'll look at every single position," Mangini said when asked who would start after the team's Week 9 bye.
Pyro's Take:
Anderson has played in six games this year and in just one of those games did he end up with a QB rating over 51.0. The big Man-gina has been adamant about not playing Quinn since yanking him in the middle of the Week 3 game, but something's gotta give. Either way, neither one is worth a second of your fantasy football time.
Vikings quarterback Brett Favre told Sports Illustrated writer Peter King that he had a strained groin all week in practice, then aggravated it in pregame warmups and wasn't sure he was going to play.
"I told T-Jack [Tarvaris Jackson] and (OC) Darrell Bevell I may not be able to do it," he said. "I didn't know if I'd be able to drop back very well. After I aggravated it, there was no way I was going to be able to move around in the pocket very much. We never called one bootleg the whole game. But we made it through OK."
Pyro's Take:
I wouldn't call this bullshit, but there was never a question Favre would play, and never a question he would play well either. Favre has a bye week to rest the injury, but check back with us these next couple weeks to see if you can get this ageless fantasy football stud back in your lineup for Week 10.
Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers came out of the most hyped game of his career with one sprained foot and a sprained toe on the other. Coach Mike McCarthy said he might miss some practice time this week, but is expected to play Sunday at Tampa Bay.
Pyro's Take:
We're sure he will, and we're also pretty sure the Packers will be taking out some serious frustrations on the 0-7 Bucs. Check back with us to make sure your fantasy football QB1 can be played next week without fear.
Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme had a CT scan after being nailed in the chest by Cardinals defensive tackle Darnell Dockett, but was cleared by the doctors to fly home with the team after the win. When asked if he would play next week, Delhomme responded with a simple “Oh yeah.”
Pyro's Take:
Delhomme made it through his first game of the year without tossing an INT, but he did only throw the ball 14 times for 90 yards on the day as the running game was in full force (270 yards). He also made his first TD pass to Steve Smith in the game as well.
It should go without saying, but Jake is not to be picked up for your fantasy football team because of this game.
With strong-armed quarterback Alex Smith running the show, 49ers OC Jimmy Raye decided to air it out against the Colts on Sunday going with 36 passing plays compared to 18 rushes. Running back Frank Gore had just 13 carries on the day.
Pyro's Take:
The offense didn't stray too far from their conservative nature, however, as Raye still went with the common two-wide formation as opposed to a three-wide set. You can expect the Niners to even up the run-pass ratio a bit next week at home against the Titans.
With strong-armed quarterback Alex Smith running the show, 49ers OC Jimmy Raye decided to air it out against the Colts on Sunday going with 36 passing plays compared to 18 rushes. Running back Frank Gore had just 13 carries on the day.
Pyro's Take:
The offense didn't stray too far from their conservative nature, however, as Raye still went with the common two-wide formation as opposed to a three-wide set. You can expect the Niners to even up the run-pass ratio a bit next week at home against the Titans.
Patriots quarterback Tom Brady says he feels like he can play to Brett Favre's age right now.
“I feel the best I’ve ever felt,” said Brady. “Five or six years ago, my arm was hurting every day throwing the football. I always used to think, ‘How can I play and always have my arm hurting?’ Now my arm never hurts.”
Pyro's Take:
Great. So in about five years or so, we can all look forward to another few off-seasons of retire/un-retire/retire/un-retire hoopla! We can't wait Mr. Bundchen!
That said, Brady is primed for an MVP-push type of second half, so make sure he's permanently in your fantasy football lineup.
Lions rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee) did not experience any problems with his knee during or after the game on Sunday, but will continue to be watched closely.
"There's been nothing," coach Jim Schwartz said. "But is he totally out of the woods? Is this behind him? Probably not yet. He probably still has treatments and things like that. I don't know for how long."
Pyro's Take:
Stafford may have ran for a 4-yard touchdown, but overall, he played like crap against the lowly Rams. His knee didn't seem to bother him, however, so keep him on the end of your fantasy football bench and wait for his main target Calvin Johnson to return before thinking about playing him.
Titans quarterback Vince Young started last week for the first time since September 7th, 2008, and did nothing but impress coach Jeff Fisher.
"This is the first start he's had where he has not had a sack or interception, and I think that shows... he has learned from this experience," Fisher said Monday. "He has learned to take what's there, take the check-down, get rid of the ball or take off when it is time to go take off. We've said all along he was developing."
Pyro's Take:
Nothing like winning, right Fish? Vinsanity looks like he's put his freaky past behind him and could be a decent pickup for your fantasy football team as a backup or start in 2-QB leagues.
Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (foot, toe) missed practice on Wednesday but is still expected to make the start Sunday against the Buccaneers.
Pyro's Take:
It was already said that Rodgers would miss practice today and maybe again on Thursday, so don't you fantasy football owners go getting your panties all up in a bunch. Check back to make 100 percent sure he's a go, but everybody, including the coaching staff, expects him to be ready come Sunday.
Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme (chest) took to the practice field in full on Wednesday and is expected to start Sunday against the Saints.
Pyro's Take:
You take the good, you take the bad, you take them both and there you have the facts of life... the facts of life.
If you have Jake Delhomme on your fantasy football team, we just don't know what to tell you.
Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (foot, toe) missed practice again on Thursday to rest his injured feet. He should be at practice tomorrow, however, and is still expected to start on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
His feet are a little banged up, yes, but his O-line is just now getting healthy, so make sure he's in your fantasy football lineup this weekend as the Bucs have given up the farm to QBs thus far.
Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (foot, toe) was back at practice with the team on Friday and looks good to go this weekend against the Bucs.
Pyro's Take:
Rodgers has been playing like the QB1 you drafted him as for your fantasy football squad this year, so make sure you have him in there against a weak Bucs pass D this weekend.
Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (ribs) practiced in full for a second day in a row and is listed as probable on the team's Week 9 injury report.
Pyro's Take:
Hasselbeck will be playing and has a grand match-up against a weak Lions secondary on Sunday, so if you are torn between him and someone else on your fantasy football team, you shouldn't have a problem starting Matt in the slightest.
As expected, Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (foot, toe) is active for the game against the Bucs on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Get him into your fantasy football lineup immediately as he has a chance to roll today against a soft Buccaneers defense today.
Bills quarterback Trent Edwards (concussion) says he feels refreshed and "ready to go" after missing a month due to a head injury. After practicing twice last week, Edwards expects to be cleared by the team to start in Week 10.
Pyro's Take:
He's been practicing with the first unit, so he'll start when he comes back. As for your fantasy football team, we'd suggest holding off that clearance to play for, well, probably the rest of the year.
Titans coach Jeff Fisher said that he will continue to give the ball to running back Chris Johnson (25 carries in Week 9) because he feels like the way for him to beat teams right now is with speed.
"I'd like to see LenDale get more carries but it is the nature of the teams we play," Fisher said. "We feel like we need to beat them with speed."
Other quotes of note:
- "He makes plays," quarterback Vince Young said. "If you want to get the ball in somebody's hands you give it to C.J."
- "It is only so often, in any sport, that you get to play with someone that is as talented at their craft," receiver Nate Washington said.
Pyro's Take:
Another quote we like is from one of the best LBs in the game, Patrick Willis:
"You can't take anything from the guy," 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis said. "If you give him what he is looking for, which is the edge, he can turn and run like there is no tomorrow."
CJ28 might be the top fantasy football running back in the game right now, so don't even think about taking him out of your lineup... for ANY reason.
According to Redskins coach Jim Zorn, quarterback Jason Campbell suffered a mild ankle sprain in the game against the Falcons on Sunday, but should be ready to face the Broncos in Week 10.
Pyro's Take:
Okay, I actually saw this one happen, so we'll let this oft-used excuse slide, but no more sprained ankle excuses Lips!
This latest mishap just slid him down to a QB4 on your fantasy football team.
Buffalo safety Donte Whitner endorsed the idea of bringing in quarterback Michael Vick to lead the Bills next season. "I believe Michael Vick would be a good fit and I would encourage whoever to bring Michael Vick in," said Whitner. "If you're not getting the job done then they're going to bring in other players. ...you bring in other guys to help you win. I would welcome bringing in Michael Vick."
Pyro's Take:
Two things: First, that doesn't speak very positively about their current QB Trent Edwards. Second, and more importantly, Vick is signed for two years with the Eagles, so nothing can be done about that unless he's released anyway.
Maybe not the smartest comments coming from a leader on the team...
Cleveland coach Eric Mangini has decided to switch quarterbacks once again and named Brady Quinn the starter for Monday night's game against the Ravens. Derek Anderson will once again be relegated to backup duties for the Browns.
Pyro's Take:
Anderson has been about as bad as we have ever seen working under center. In six games of action, DA averaged 113.5 yards/game, 4.42 yards/attempt, had a 42.9 completion percentage, threw for two TDs compared to nine INTs, and ended with a QB rating of 36.2. We don't know for sure, but he could be the worst fantasy football QB of all-time. See ya buddy!
Browns coach Eric Mangini has decided to switch quarterbacks once again and named Brady Quinn the starter for Monday night's game against the Ravens.
Pyro's Take:
The Big Man-gina should have made this move weeks ago, but honestly, it's like choosing between a Ford Pinto and a Yugo in that you know that neither one is taking you anywhere. Regardless, Quinn deserved another chance, but definitely not on your fantasy football team.
49ers quarterback Alex Smith may have had a sub-par game last Sunday throwing three INTs, but coach Mike Singletary doesn't believe it was all his fault and is still backing his starting QB. "I thought Alex did a good job throwing the football," Singletary said Monday. "Alex had one play that was on him."
Pyro's Take:
Smith is entrenched as the starter in San Fran as he brings a whole new dimension to that offense with the vertical passing game. We'd be surprised if Alex doesn't throw for at least 3 TDs Thursday night against the 10-cent-ho Bears D, so feel free to start him on your fantasy football team this week.
Buffalo quarterback Trent Edwards (concussion) told the media on Wednesday that he was informed he would be the starter for the Bills on Sunday against the Titans.
Pyro's Take:
He's not the greatest option, but he's better than Ryan Fitzpatrick, so he gets the nod. Neither QB is worth starting fantasy football consideration.
Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (foot, toe) went through a limited day of practice on Wednesday in order to rest his ailing feet.
Pyro's Take:
His injuries must be getting better as he was kept completely out of Wednesday and Thursday practices last week. He's a fantasy football QB1 this year and should be started on a weekly basis.
Vikings quarterback Brett Favre (hip) was limited in practice on Wednesday but is in no danger of missing the game against the Lions on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Favre will play on Sunday, but might not be the greatest fantasy football option as the Vikings are likely to go up early and have Adrian Peterson run out the game. He can still be used as a QB2 for your team however.
Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee) was limited in practice on Wednesday but is still expected to start against the Vikings this weekend.
Pyro's Take:
Stafford had an awful game last Sunday and will likely be experiencing growing pains the remainder of the season. Even though his knee is obviously still bothering him a bit, he can be occasionally used as a QB2 on your fantasy football team.
Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (shoulder, ribs) was limited in practice on Wednesday, but coach Jim Mora said that he should start Sunday against the Cardinals.
Pyro's Take:
The Cardinals can be beat through the air, so Hasselbeck wouldn't be a bad QB2 play on your fantasy football team this week. Check back during the week to make sure he's completely healthy.
Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell (ankle) put in some part time work at practice on Wednesday and should be able to start this weekend.
Pyro's Take:
Campbell will play on Sunday, but shouldn't be anywhere near your starting fantasy football lineup.
After losing to the last winless team in the league on Sunday, the Packers offense got together to air out their frustrations on Monday and let each other know what's what. One quote from the session:
"We all have to ask ourselves if we're doing enough," quarterback Aaron Rodgers said, "because if we're not, we're going to be sitting at home in January watching the playoffs, not playing in them. Again. I don't want to do that again."
Pyro's Take:
Rodgers was told by the O-Line that he holds onto the ball too long. The O-Line was told they aren't blocking even close to well enough. Receivers were called out for their drops, and RBs were called out for leaving too many yards on the field. But the best quote was by the old man: "If we don't win - and I mean now - they are going to fire all of our (butts) at the end of the season," WR Donald Driver said. "I'm serious."
Look for the Pack to have a monster game on Sunday, especially Rodgers, so start them all on your fantasy football team if you can.
Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (foot, toe) went through a full practice with the team on Thursday and is ready to make his normal start against the Cowboys this weekend.
Pyro's Take:
After the brouhaha the Packers offense had on Monday, Rodgers should be in line for a big day on Sunday. Make sure you start him on your fantasy football team this weekend as he's currently the No. 1 fantasy QB in the league and now has a chip on his shoulder to boot.
Lions rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee) is active for the game against the Vikings on Sunday.
Pyro's Take:
Stafford wasn't all that great against the Vikes the first time around throwing for 152 yards, 1 TD, and 2 INTs. Expect around the same production today for the rook in Minnesota.
Bills quarterback Trent Edwards (concussion) is active and will return to his starting role under center against the Titans today.
Pyro's Take:
He wasn't playable on your fantasy football team before his concussion, and nothing has changed since.
According to NFL Network insider Michael Lombardi, Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton will play in Week 11 against the Chargers despite sitting out the second half of a loss to the Redskins last week with an injured left ankle.
Pyro's Take:
Broncos backup QB Chris Simms was completely ineffective in his half of action, so the Broncos will do everything they can to get Orton healthy for the game next week. The contest could very well be a shootout, so Orton might be able to be used as a QB2 on your fantasy football team.
After going 8-of-23 for 64 yards (2.8 YPA) in almost three quarters of action, Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell was pulled from the game by coach Tom Cable in favor of backup Bruce Gradkowski. When asked about it on Monday, here's what Russell had to say:
"I really can't explain it," Russell said of the benching. "I really don't know what to say about it, but that was his decision, and just move on from it."
Pyro's Take:
Has JaMarcus ever seen the stats that real quarterbacks put up in the NFL and college? Or High School? Or maybe even Pop Warner Youth Football?
Clueless? Check. Gigantic and overweight? Check. Worst QB in the NFL? Double-check.
Fit to be a Raider, that's for sure.
When asked about his early-season bout with plantar fasciitis, Giants quarterback Eli Manning had this to say:
"That injury I think is kind of over and done with," Manning said. "A week off and not practicing and not putting any pressure on the body or the arm definitely helps, refreshes the whole body."
Pyro's Take:
Eli has always been a first-quarter of the year type of quarterback, and that trend hasn't changed this season. He's no better than a QB2 going forward on your fantasy football team, and shouldn't be started against his tougher match-ups.