Here's part one (of three) of our predictions for week one of the NFL season. Of course, the Giants, we had them to win. Cough. Actually we did, and our entirely-legal-in-international-territory accumulator is still on. In every match up we will post fantasy picks, fantasy drops, and of course, our prediction for the winning team is the bold team in the title.
Sunday September 7th, 1pm EST
Detroit at Atlanta
The Lions hold a big edge over the Falcons, mainly in that their high powered passing game is in direct contrast to the inexperience of the Atlanta secondary. Expect Jon Kitna to torment the Atlanta Defence, and for the Falcons to lean heavily on the running game.
Fantasy Pick: Lions WR's Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson should dominate the youthful Chris Houston and Brent Grimes. Also consider Falcons RB Jerious Norwood, who will return kicks and share carries with Michael Turner.
Fantasy Drop: The Lions Defence is not a bad unit as a whole, but could struggle against teams that rely heavily on the run. Let's be honest, if you own the Lions D, you aren't going to win your league this year.
Seattle at Buffalo
The Seahawks should edge what could be a close encounter. A lot will rely on how the Seattle receivers get going early in the game. If they establish a passing attack, it could in turn set up the backfield committee of Julius Jones, TJ Duckett, and Maurice Morris. For the Bills, their best chance is to get a lead and force the Seahawks to rely too heavily on QB Matt Hasselbeck as they chase the game. The Seahwaks are notoriously poor when playing on the east coast however,
Fantasy Pick: The Seattle Defence are (in our opinion) the best all-round unit in the league, and should be able to stifle a young Bills Offence that lacks depth.
Fantasy Drop: Any Seattle Running Back. Jones, Duckett and Morris will all split carrries. Only Jones is a last ditch starter, whilst the other two could have a great game, but will likely not.
Jacksonville at Tennessee
This is not a foregone conclusion, but in all honesty, the Jags are a safe bet to turn over the Titans in Nashville. The Titans are strong on Defence, and will need to hope that Jacksonville crumble under the pressure of being the 'sleeper' Superbowl pick this season.
Fantasy Pick: The Titans Defence gave up just 96yds per game on the ground last season, and were actually a surprisingly strong fantasy option. For some reason, we think Matt Jones could figure heavily for the Jags, and is definately worth a look if you are short at WR.
Fantasy Drop: Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew will not only split carries, but also come up against a team that can stop them running the ball. Jones-Drew has slightly better value for his return ability, but avoid Taylor, who is also coming off an arrest last weekend.
New York Jets at Miami Dolphins
We don't like this one bit. The Dolphins have the potential to upset the Jets in Miami, so if you're a betting person, it's worth a flyer for the odds you will get. Chad Pennington could easily gain revenge on the franchise that dumped him, but Brett Favre, who replaced him in New York, is as good as they come. Sunday is the litmus test for Favre, and it will be interesting to see his link up with WR Laveraneus Coles after the very public spat between Coles and the Jets over Pennington's treatment.
Fantasy Pick: Ted Ginn Jnr has looked sharper since Pennington arrived, and should be the main beneficiary of the new-found stability at the Quarterback position. Brett Favre may not throw against a weaker secondary in his career, which in turn means that Jerricho Cotchery and Laveraneus Coles are both good options this week.
Fantasy Drop: Either Defence is a complete non-starter, though in IDP leagues try the Jets Linebackers. Ricky Williams is a marginal play after Head Coach Tony Sparano praised Ronnie Brown's recent efforts in practice. Neither is a particularly safe bet, though of the two, Brown has the bigger upside.
Kansas City at New England
A Chiefs victory would pretty much be the biggest upset ever, but with the spread currently +16.5 to the Pats, don't be shy of a flutter on Kansas City, who could easily push them harder than most people imagine. At the very least, it's unlikely that any team will be firing on all cylinders in week one, not least an offence that has been without it's starting QB all preseason.
Fantasy Pick: Tony Gonzalez should be the main man for Brodie Croyle, but don't expect Croyle to put up big numbers himself. The Patriots are fantasy studs all round, except for one position...
Fantasy Drop: Laurence Maroney was considered a first round pick in some leagues last year. Sadly for those who may have drafted him as high as pick 8 in their Dynasty league (cough), he was a disaster, splitting time with Sammy Morris (who outperformed him in the first six weeks of the season) and never becoming a reliable starter in fantasy games. Until he rectifies that, stay away.
We'll have parts 2 and 3 tommorow.
Friday, 5 September 2008
Washington torched by Giants, Burress
For those of you who live in a cave, the Giants overcame the Redskins 7-16 last night in New York. Neither team scored in the second half at all, and the Redskins only got on the board with seconds to go in the first half.
Standout performers were Plaxico Burress (10 catches for 133yds), Brandon Jacobs (21 carries, 116yds) and bizarrely, Antwaan Randle El, who finished with 7 catches for 73 yards. As always, this will trigger Randle El's acquisition around fantasy leagues today, but he has a habit of tailing off after big games, so we'll hold judgement for now.
Tonight we'll break down some key fantasy picks for you. We're also still intent on bringing you our 16 player Dynasty league this season so that you can see what goes on in the deeper format of fantasy football.
Anyway, that's later this afternoon, so check back.
Standout performers were Plaxico Burress (10 catches for 133yds), Brandon Jacobs (21 carries, 116yds) and bizarrely, Antwaan Randle El, who finished with 7 catches for 73 yards. As always, this will trigger Randle El's acquisition around fantasy leagues today, but he has a habit of tailing off after big games, so we'll hold judgement for now.
Tonight we'll break down some key fantasy picks for you. We're also still intent on bringing you our 16 player Dynasty league this season so that you can see what goes on in the deeper format of fantasy football.
Anyway, that's later this afternoon, so check back.
Thursday, 4 September 2008
The Wide-Right Power rankings: 2008 season
As promised, our ranking of each team in the league. It'll be updated weekly.
1: New England Patriots
Still the team to beat. A healthy Tom Brady is crucial, but as a unit, they've improved where they needed to, and managed to retain their core group on Offence. Defensively, the secondary is the only question, after losing such a quantity of players in Asante Samuel, Randall Gay, and Eugene Wilson. It's still impossible, however, to consider anyone ready to challenge the Pats. The Superbowl - again - is theirs to lose.
2: Dallas Cowboys
It says more about the question marks of others that the Cowboys are the number two team in our rankings. Perhaps on paper the team is the strongest in the NFL though, and if they can find a receiver to join T.O and Jason Witten, Dallas will be there or thereabouts come January.
3: San Diego Chargers
With a healthy Shawne Merriman, the Chargers would leapfrog the Cowboys. Unfortunately, Merriman is the key component to a formidable Defence, and his nagging knee injury could put paid to his own - and the Chargers' - hopes of a Superbowl. Apart from that, the Chargers are the Dallas of the AFC - Great on paper, but lacking that crucial edge come the post-season.
4: Indianapolis Colts
The Colts are clinging to their position at the top of the AFC South by the skin of their teeth. Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison are both questionable heading into the season, and though Harrison is replaceable, Manning is not. This team will not go if Manning doesn't, but all signs point to him at least starting the season. Whether he finishes it is another matter.
5: Jacksonville Jaguars
The tragic shooting of Richard Collier limits Jack Del Rio's options as he looks to improve his Offensive Line's play. Collier was pushing incumbent RT Khalif Barnes all the way in Camp, so his loss is a huge blow to morale in Jacksonville as his teammates enter the window that is marked 'Superbowl'. Yes, the Jags are legit. If they struggle early, however, their competitive division will make it harder to rebound.
6: Pittsburgh Steelers
Overlooked for much of the offseason, the team is still solid, and the young core that brought a Superbowl ring three years ago is still mainly together. The addition of Rashard Mendenhall in the draft will give Willie Parker a chance to rest, but the loss of Guard Alan Faneca is one of the worst personnel decisions this offseason. Still, with a solid running game, the Steelers can still make the Superbowl.
7: New Orleans Saints
Either the Secondary finally shows up, and the Saints win the NFC, or they struggle, in which case Drew Brees and the high powered offence may be able to carry them as far as the playoffs. Question marks over the Running game too, with Deuce Mcallister still struggling due to injury, and Reggie Bush well... just struggling full stop. Bush needs this season to go well, or his days in New Orleans could well be numbered.
8: New York Giants
The Giants do well to make it to 8th after the loss of their two biggest players in the Superbowl winning team of 2007. With Michael Strahan retiring, and Osi Umenyiora's season ending injury, the mantle falls to Justin Tuck to lead the line that cause such havoc for the Patriots in February. Jeremy Shockey's trade to New Orleans could be a case of 'addition by subtraction', and the Offence is actually one place that the Giants have less concern.
Also, don't get us started on how bad this team's secondary is. Like so many of the teams in the upper echelon of the NFL, they have major question marks heading into 2008 at Defensive Back. It's a pattern that has developed towards the top of the tree, with only the Cowboys and Chargers particularly outstanding in that area.
9: Cleveland Browns
Ignore the preseason: The Browns have a chance this year. Playing in the AFC North is traditionally a struggle, but with both Bengals and Ravens struggling as we head into week one, it's a straight fight between the Browns and Steelers for the Division crown. At the moment the Steelers just edge it - having been there and done that - but if the Browns fire on all cylinders, they can go deep into the playoffs.
10: Seattle Seahawks
The best Defence in the NFL will be as reliable as it has been for the last few years, but the potentially brilliant Offence is hampered by injuries and confusion over the Running game. If Deion Branch is fit, he is an elite receiver who gives the Seahawks a legitimate passing attack. When he is not, the team previously relied on Shaun Alexander. With Alexander's release, the team will ask one of Julius Jones, T.J. Duckett, or Maurice Morris to step up and claim the number one job.
11: Houston Texans
Do not adjust your monitor. Yes, the Houston texans are playoff contenders, and here's why: A passing attack that features one of the league's best receivers (Andre Johnson) and a solid Quarterback for the first time in their short history (Matt Schaub). The Defence has future stars in Fred Bennett, Mario Williams, and DeMeco Ryans, all of whom can move into the upper echelon of players at their respective positions. We think the Texans have a shot at the Playoffs, and we aren't afraid to say so. The fact is however, that even being ranked 11th in the NFL, they're still the third best team in the AFC South. In the end, their fate could well be decided by their performances against the Jags and Colts.
12: Green Bay Packers
Let's not mention the F-word. Yes, Brett Favre retired, but this team is still a playoff contender, not least because of a Defence that receives less hype than it's divisional counterparts, yet is consistently amongst the best performing units in the NFL. The biggest question is over Aaron Rodgers, who needs a good start to build momentum and win over sceptics - mainly amongst the team's own fans.
13: Washington Redskins
A poor preseason should not detract from the what has been a refreshing summer of change for the Redskins. New coach Jim Zorn should help the development of Quarterback Jason Campbell, who enters the crucial season in his career. The talent is there, but the team needs Campbell to be more consistent, and most importantly, to stay healthy through the course of 16 games. As a team, the Skins need to avoid the slow start they are renowned for. Tonight's game at New York could easily set the tone for the whole season.
14: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs are underrated even now, but perhaps they have been overshadowed by the re-emergence of the Saints as the dominant force in the NFC South. Quarterback Jeff Garcia is the master of making something out of a bad situation, and his 'backyard football' style of play should help the team more than his 'handle with care' durability hinders it. On Defence, the team needs Tanard Jackson and Barret Ruud to continue their brand of hard hitting football that could see both make the pro-bowl this year.
15: Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are right on the borderline as far as the Playoffs are concerned. Again, like so many teams, their entire season could hinge on whether their Quarterback is still around by week 12. Donovan McNabb needs to shed the stigma of a brittle Quarterback fast if he wants to remain in Philly after this year. Brian Westbrook can not carry the team on his back - as he has done for the last two years - for much longer, and realistically, this could be both players' last shot at a Superbowl in an Eagles uniform.
16: Buffalo Bills
The Bills? Yeah, that's right. Just look who's after them if you want another shock. Yeah, we'd class the Bills as the second best team in the AFC North, even after seeing the Jets invest big money this offseason. The core group of players is there for the team to build with, especially on Defence. Realistically, it's hard to imagine a Buffalo fan that wouldn't be happy with second place in their division right now.
17: Detroit Lions
We went there alright. Sure, the Lions have question marks all over the field, but they have two of the NFL's best receivers in Calvin Johnson and Roy Williams, and a solid enough QB in Jon Kitna. A lot will hinge on if Rudi Johnson and Kevin Smith provide a backfield tandem capable of taking on a division stacked with brilliant Defences. The Lions are no exception, and again, we can't state Linebacker Ernie Sims's potential highly enough.
18: New York Jets
A crucial season for the Jets, especially their management. Can Brett Favre deliver a playoff place? If he can't there's going to be yet another offseason of 'umming and arring' in Mississippi for the veteran QB. The team is in good shape all round, but perhaps expecting Favre to help the team supplant New England is a stretch. They should be in the hunt for a wild card spot, however. On Defence, all eyes will be on 6th overall pick Vernon Gholston, but it will also be interesting to see how ILB David Harris fares over the course of a whole season.
19: Arizona Cardinals
The Cards are still in the hunt, but the fact that the team still has Quarterback issues heading into this season tells it's own story. Realistically, this team is still struggling to overcome their tag of 'perennial losers', and the fact that they have put 38yr old Kurt Warner back in charge - 3 years after he lost the QB gig - does not indicate good progress. Despite all of that, the weakness of the NFC West could save them from a poor season. Expect 8-8 or one game either side.
20: Minnesota Vikings
Why so low? Simple: They have question marks at crucial positions, and whilst they made inroads with the acquisition of Bernard Berrian at Receiver, Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson enters the season after an offseason of injury and speculation over his future. If he can pull off a winning season, Jackson will deserve all the plaudits he gets, but again, expect the team to rely too heavily on the league's best Running Back tandem - Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor - for Jackson to find a rhythm.
21: Carolina Panthers
Carolina should, in theory, be challenging New Orleans and Tampa Bay for the NFC South title, but a combination of team disharmony and a reliance on players that have a propensity to blow hot and cold (Julius Peppers, Jake Delhomme, Steve Smith), means that the team's final record could lead to either a playoff place or a top five pick next year. Smith should count for a few big plays, but he is sorely in need of help at wideout, as he finds himself the focus of any defence he faces. Delhomme too, despite a strong start last year, needs to rebound from serious elbow surgery strongly, or his long term future could be at stake.
22: Tennessee Titans
Vince Young is a good football player. With the ball in his hands he is dangerous and a threat to score with his feet and his arm, but he is hampered by a complete lack of weapons with which to make the best of his abilities. TE Alge Crumpler is a half decent addition, but Bo Scaife was already a serviceable guy at the position. Yet again, the Titans may have an outside shot at surprising some teams, but in the toughest division in the NFL, it's hard to see them making the playoffs this season.
23: Cincinnati Bengals
The Bungles? Not quite, but the disastrous last few months could have irreparably damaged their season before it has even begun. With one thing or another, the team has been through the mill so many times that it's almost surprising that Chad Johnson's name is a refreshing distraction for the team. Bad personnel decisions are still following this team around, and sooner or later, Marvin Lewis will have to take responsibility for that. This team is better than Baltimore on paper, but as a unit? When the going gets tough, this team disintegrates.
24: Oakland Raiders
As we descend the ladder, most of these teams have no hope of making the playoffs. The Raiders are, however, a classic example of a team that has managed to find it's 'rock bottom', and could be poised to break out of the mire that they have found themselves in over the last few years. QB JaMarcus Russell carries a lot of weight on his shoulders... yes, we know. He also carries expectation, but with some luck and a bit of time to adjust, he should develop into a fine player. The team's biggest asset is it's running game, which could well help the team scuttle some weak divisional rivals.
25: Miami Dolphins
Again. the Dolphins have hit their low point, and with the Parcells-Sparano combination, have a chance to surprise people. In a tough division, they could struggle, but they should certainly be better than 1-15. The key? A steady Defence. Too often the Dolphins lost on late scores, or gave up huge gains at crucial times last year. While all of the focus is on Chad Pennington at Quarterback, perhaps most important is how they cope with the loss of their two stalwart defensive players, Jason Taylor and Zach Thomas.
26: Atlanta Falcons
It may surprise some to see the Falcons so high, but this team is young, and coach Mike Smith has made some astute moves during the offseason. The drafting of Matt Ryan is a masterstroke, and without wishing to jinx anything, Ryan will be a superstar. I've never seen a Quarterback ooze 'Hall of Fame' from every pore on draft day in the last ten years. Don't forget that the team has a trio of potentially great receivers in Roddy White, Laurent Robinson, and Michael Jenkins. Add young Linebacker Curtis Lofton, and this team can win games. It will be a long road, but at least the foundations are in place for a recovery.
27: Baltimore Ravens
Unfortunately for the Ravens, the Quarterback position is the most important one on the field. Whilst Ryan earned his starting job in Atlanta based on his attitude and ability, Flacco has fallen into the Starters job perhaps slightly sooner than anticipated by many. That's not a knock on a guy who has great physical skills, but Baltimore is a Signal-Caller graveyard. If Flacco wants confirmation, he can ask Kyle Boller, on IR and probably on his way out of the door, despite being drafted in a similiar manner to Flacco in 2003. The team lives and dies on it's Defence. If they are lucky, the Ravens might get a shot at third place in their division - no higher.
28: Chicago Bears
And when we talk about a team that is carried by it's Defense... The Bears have no offence. None. Nada. Zilch. Their Quarterback is a third stringer who is in the job by default because he is not Rex Grossman, and their running game consists of a second round rookie out of Tulane (Matt Forte), and a guy coming back from two bouts of major surgery in the last two years (Kevin Jones). Finally, their best receiving threat is a converted Defensive Back-cum-Return specialist who has managed to become the team's number one receiver, such is the lack of talent on the roster. One thing we guarantee, it'll be a long season in Chicago. They'll win the odd game in inspiring fashion, playing the kind of Defence that wins championships, but they'll also lose just as many playing offence that would disgrace a high school team.
29: Denver Broncos
Contentious? No. The team can't play Defence. Champ Bailey is tremendous, an asset in every sense, but he is alone, an island in a sea of mediocrity. The team will give up huge rushing totals this year, and unfortunately, their Offence is pretty much dependent on their potentially-quite-good playmaker, WR Brandon Marshall, living up to his promise. QB Jay Cutler is one of the better players in the league, but like Bailey, he is going to spend long periods of 2008 feeling that his hard work is in vain. Thankfully, both players can book holidays for January, as they won't be needing their pads in the offseason.
30: Kansas City Chiefs
A team in rebuilding mode, but unlike the Falcons, Raiders and Dolphins, a team that could easily spend this year without a win. This team could either be great in the future, or the fans at Arrowhead could lament the 'class of 2008' in years to come. Either way, it's too soon to judge them, and the team's youth will be a big factor in many losses they experience this season. Although too soon to write off, it's best if many of the players book psychological counselling now, to avoid the rush once the season begins in Kansas City.
31: St. Louis Rams
Wow, it really isn't a good year to be in Missouri. The Rams are somehow worse than last season. Chris Long, a DE, is helping at a position of need, but realistically, St. Louis needs an Offensive line that can take the pounding of a 16 game season. Orlando Pace, Alex Barron, Rich Incognito. If you follow football, you may be familiar with these names, and likewise, if you follow injury reports, you may be familiar with these names. Marc Bulger has become re-acquainted with the St. Louis turf so often he probably shuns his wife and sleeps on the sofa, purely because the thought of spending all night lying down with someone prostrated on top of you just doesn't appeal when it is also your day job. The Rams have players who should in - theory - make this team good. Steven Jackson for example, but his holdout will set this team back 4-5 weeks, and by that time, this season is over for the Rams.
32: San Francisco 49ers
The worst team in the NFL. That's the San Francisco 49ers. Where to start? The third string QB? The 'upgraded' receiver corps of a 35yr old ex-Ram and a mediocre ex Cardinal? The addition of DeShaun Foster, a man who I wouldn't trust with the ball if his hand was covered in tar, or finally the decimated Defensive and Offensive lines? This team is shambolic, and the buck stops with coach Mike Nolan.
Nolan is a personable and friendly guy, but he has made some terrible decisions since his tenure began, and his decision to effectively give up on Alex Smith, the first overall pick just three years ago, shows that no matter what happens this year, he is unlikely to accept that he is the problem. Smith deserved better, and at least a shot at the Mike Martz offence this season. Instead, J.T. O'Sullivan will call the shots. Possibly the only bright spot is the continued ascendency of Patrick Willis, the Linebacker who is set to become one of the league's biggest stars. Indeed, the LB class of 2007, with Willis, Carolina's Jon Beason, and the Jets' David Harris, could well be one of the best in recent NFL history.
Which is certainly the only time that sentence will be used in the same paragraph as the 49ers in 2008.
1: New England Patriots
Still the team to beat. A healthy Tom Brady is crucial, but as a unit, they've improved where they needed to, and managed to retain their core group on Offence. Defensively, the secondary is the only question, after losing such a quantity of players in Asante Samuel, Randall Gay, and Eugene Wilson. It's still impossible, however, to consider anyone ready to challenge the Pats. The Superbowl - again - is theirs to lose.
2: Dallas Cowboys
It says more about the question marks of others that the Cowboys are the number two team in our rankings. Perhaps on paper the team is the strongest in the NFL though, and if they can find a receiver to join T.O and Jason Witten, Dallas will be there or thereabouts come January.
3: San Diego Chargers
With a healthy Shawne Merriman, the Chargers would leapfrog the Cowboys. Unfortunately, Merriman is the key component to a formidable Defence, and his nagging knee injury could put paid to his own - and the Chargers' - hopes of a Superbowl. Apart from that, the Chargers are the Dallas of the AFC - Great on paper, but lacking that crucial edge come the post-season.
4: Indianapolis Colts
The Colts are clinging to their position at the top of the AFC South by the skin of their teeth. Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison are both questionable heading into the season, and though Harrison is replaceable, Manning is not. This team will not go if Manning doesn't, but all signs point to him at least starting the season. Whether he finishes it is another matter.
5: Jacksonville Jaguars
The tragic shooting of Richard Collier limits Jack Del Rio's options as he looks to improve his Offensive Line's play. Collier was pushing incumbent RT Khalif Barnes all the way in Camp, so his loss is a huge blow to morale in Jacksonville as his teammates enter the window that is marked 'Superbowl'. Yes, the Jags are legit. If they struggle early, however, their competitive division will make it harder to rebound.
6: Pittsburgh Steelers
Overlooked for much of the offseason, the team is still solid, and the young core that brought a Superbowl ring three years ago is still mainly together. The addition of Rashard Mendenhall in the draft will give Willie Parker a chance to rest, but the loss of Guard Alan Faneca is one of the worst personnel decisions this offseason. Still, with a solid running game, the Steelers can still make the Superbowl.
7: New Orleans Saints
Either the Secondary finally shows up, and the Saints win the NFC, or they struggle, in which case Drew Brees and the high powered offence may be able to carry them as far as the playoffs. Question marks over the Running game too, with Deuce Mcallister still struggling due to injury, and Reggie Bush well... just struggling full stop. Bush needs this season to go well, or his days in New Orleans could well be numbered.
8: New York Giants
The Giants do well to make it to 8th after the loss of their two biggest players in the Superbowl winning team of 2007. With Michael Strahan retiring, and Osi Umenyiora's season ending injury, the mantle falls to Justin Tuck to lead the line that cause such havoc for the Patriots in February. Jeremy Shockey's trade to New Orleans could be a case of 'addition by subtraction', and the Offence is actually one place that the Giants have less concern.
Also, don't get us started on how bad this team's secondary is. Like so many of the teams in the upper echelon of the NFL, they have major question marks heading into 2008 at Defensive Back. It's a pattern that has developed towards the top of the tree, with only the Cowboys and Chargers particularly outstanding in that area.
9: Cleveland Browns
Ignore the preseason: The Browns have a chance this year. Playing in the AFC North is traditionally a struggle, but with both Bengals and Ravens struggling as we head into week one, it's a straight fight between the Browns and Steelers for the Division crown. At the moment the Steelers just edge it - having been there and done that - but if the Browns fire on all cylinders, they can go deep into the playoffs.
10: Seattle Seahawks
The best Defence in the NFL will be as reliable as it has been for the last few years, but the potentially brilliant Offence is hampered by injuries and confusion over the Running game. If Deion Branch is fit, he is an elite receiver who gives the Seahawks a legitimate passing attack. When he is not, the team previously relied on Shaun Alexander. With Alexander's release, the team will ask one of Julius Jones, T.J. Duckett, or Maurice Morris to step up and claim the number one job.
11: Houston Texans
Do not adjust your monitor. Yes, the Houston texans are playoff contenders, and here's why: A passing attack that features one of the league's best receivers (Andre Johnson) and a solid Quarterback for the first time in their short history (Matt Schaub). The Defence has future stars in Fred Bennett, Mario Williams, and DeMeco Ryans, all of whom can move into the upper echelon of players at their respective positions. We think the Texans have a shot at the Playoffs, and we aren't afraid to say so. The fact is however, that even being ranked 11th in the NFL, they're still the third best team in the AFC South. In the end, their fate could well be decided by their performances against the Jags and Colts.
12: Green Bay Packers
Let's not mention the F-word. Yes, Brett Favre retired, but this team is still a playoff contender, not least because of a Defence that receives less hype than it's divisional counterparts, yet is consistently amongst the best performing units in the NFL. The biggest question is over Aaron Rodgers, who needs a good start to build momentum and win over sceptics - mainly amongst the team's own fans.
13: Washington Redskins
A poor preseason should not detract from the what has been a refreshing summer of change for the Redskins. New coach Jim Zorn should help the development of Quarterback Jason Campbell, who enters the crucial season in his career. The talent is there, but the team needs Campbell to be more consistent, and most importantly, to stay healthy through the course of 16 games. As a team, the Skins need to avoid the slow start they are renowned for. Tonight's game at New York could easily set the tone for the whole season.
14: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs are underrated even now, but perhaps they have been overshadowed by the re-emergence of the Saints as the dominant force in the NFC South. Quarterback Jeff Garcia is the master of making something out of a bad situation, and his 'backyard football' style of play should help the team more than his 'handle with care' durability hinders it. On Defence, the team needs Tanard Jackson and Barret Ruud to continue their brand of hard hitting football that could see both make the pro-bowl this year.
15: Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are right on the borderline as far as the Playoffs are concerned. Again, like so many teams, their entire season could hinge on whether their Quarterback is still around by week 12. Donovan McNabb needs to shed the stigma of a brittle Quarterback fast if he wants to remain in Philly after this year. Brian Westbrook can not carry the team on his back - as he has done for the last two years - for much longer, and realistically, this could be both players' last shot at a Superbowl in an Eagles uniform.
16: Buffalo Bills
The Bills? Yeah, that's right. Just look who's after them if you want another shock. Yeah, we'd class the Bills as the second best team in the AFC North, even after seeing the Jets invest big money this offseason. The core group of players is there for the team to build with, especially on Defence. Realistically, it's hard to imagine a Buffalo fan that wouldn't be happy with second place in their division right now.
17: Detroit Lions
We went there alright. Sure, the Lions have question marks all over the field, but they have two of the NFL's best receivers in Calvin Johnson and Roy Williams, and a solid enough QB in Jon Kitna. A lot will hinge on if Rudi Johnson and Kevin Smith provide a backfield tandem capable of taking on a division stacked with brilliant Defences. The Lions are no exception, and again, we can't state Linebacker Ernie Sims's potential highly enough.
18: New York Jets
A crucial season for the Jets, especially their management. Can Brett Favre deliver a playoff place? If he can't there's going to be yet another offseason of 'umming and arring' in Mississippi for the veteran QB. The team is in good shape all round, but perhaps expecting Favre to help the team supplant New England is a stretch. They should be in the hunt for a wild card spot, however. On Defence, all eyes will be on 6th overall pick Vernon Gholston, but it will also be interesting to see how ILB David Harris fares over the course of a whole season.
19: Arizona Cardinals
The Cards are still in the hunt, but the fact that the team still has Quarterback issues heading into this season tells it's own story. Realistically, this team is still struggling to overcome their tag of 'perennial losers', and the fact that they have put 38yr old Kurt Warner back in charge - 3 years after he lost the QB gig - does not indicate good progress. Despite all of that, the weakness of the NFC West could save them from a poor season. Expect 8-8 or one game either side.
20: Minnesota Vikings
Why so low? Simple: They have question marks at crucial positions, and whilst they made inroads with the acquisition of Bernard Berrian at Receiver, Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson enters the season after an offseason of injury and speculation over his future. If he can pull off a winning season, Jackson will deserve all the plaudits he gets, but again, expect the team to rely too heavily on the league's best Running Back tandem - Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor - for Jackson to find a rhythm.
21: Carolina Panthers
Carolina should, in theory, be challenging New Orleans and Tampa Bay for the NFC South title, but a combination of team disharmony and a reliance on players that have a propensity to blow hot and cold (Julius Peppers, Jake Delhomme, Steve Smith), means that the team's final record could lead to either a playoff place or a top five pick next year. Smith should count for a few big plays, but he is sorely in need of help at wideout, as he finds himself the focus of any defence he faces. Delhomme too, despite a strong start last year, needs to rebound from serious elbow surgery strongly, or his long term future could be at stake.
22: Tennessee Titans
Vince Young is a good football player. With the ball in his hands he is dangerous and a threat to score with his feet and his arm, but he is hampered by a complete lack of weapons with which to make the best of his abilities. TE Alge Crumpler is a half decent addition, but Bo Scaife was already a serviceable guy at the position. Yet again, the Titans may have an outside shot at surprising some teams, but in the toughest division in the NFL, it's hard to see them making the playoffs this season.
23: Cincinnati Bengals
The Bungles? Not quite, but the disastrous last few months could have irreparably damaged their season before it has even begun. With one thing or another, the team has been through the mill so many times that it's almost surprising that Chad Johnson's name is a refreshing distraction for the team. Bad personnel decisions are still following this team around, and sooner or later, Marvin Lewis will have to take responsibility for that. This team is better than Baltimore on paper, but as a unit? When the going gets tough, this team disintegrates.
24: Oakland Raiders
As we descend the ladder, most of these teams have no hope of making the playoffs. The Raiders are, however, a classic example of a team that has managed to find it's 'rock bottom', and could be poised to break out of the mire that they have found themselves in over the last few years. QB JaMarcus Russell carries a lot of weight on his shoulders... yes, we know. He also carries expectation, but with some luck and a bit of time to adjust, he should develop into a fine player. The team's biggest asset is it's running game, which could well help the team scuttle some weak divisional rivals.
25: Miami Dolphins
Again. the Dolphins have hit their low point, and with the Parcells-Sparano combination, have a chance to surprise people. In a tough division, they could struggle, but they should certainly be better than 1-15. The key? A steady Defence. Too often the Dolphins lost on late scores, or gave up huge gains at crucial times last year. While all of the focus is on Chad Pennington at Quarterback, perhaps most important is how they cope with the loss of their two stalwart defensive players, Jason Taylor and Zach Thomas.
26: Atlanta Falcons
It may surprise some to see the Falcons so high, but this team is young, and coach Mike Smith has made some astute moves during the offseason. The drafting of Matt Ryan is a masterstroke, and without wishing to jinx anything, Ryan will be a superstar. I've never seen a Quarterback ooze 'Hall of Fame' from every pore on draft day in the last ten years. Don't forget that the team has a trio of potentially great receivers in Roddy White, Laurent Robinson, and Michael Jenkins. Add young Linebacker Curtis Lofton, and this team can win games. It will be a long road, but at least the foundations are in place for a recovery.
27: Baltimore Ravens
Unfortunately for the Ravens, the Quarterback position is the most important one on the field. Whilst Ryan earned his starting job in Atlanta based on his attitude and ability, Flacco has fallen into the Starters job perhaps slightly sooner than anticipated by many. That's not a knock on a guy who has great physical skills, but Baltimore is a Signal-Caller graveyard. If Flacco wants confirmation, he can ask Kyle Boller, on IR and probably on his way out of the door, despite being drafted in a similiar manner to Flacco in 2003. The team lives and dies on it's Defence. If they are lucky, the Ravens might get a shot at third place in their division - no higher.
28: Chicago Bears
And when we talk about a team that is carried by it's Defense... The Bears have no offence. None. Nada. Zilch. Their Quarterback is a third stringer who is in the job by default because he is not Rex Grossman, and their running game consists of a second round rookie out of Tulane (Matt Forte), and a guy coming back from two bouts of major surgery in the last two years (Kevin Jones). Finally, their best receiving threat is a converted Defensive Back-cum-Return specialist who has managed to become the team's number one receiver, such is the lack of talent on the roster. One thing we guarantee, it'll be a long season in Chicago. They'll win the odd game in inspiring fashion, playing the kind of Defence that wins championships, but they'll also lose just as many playing offence that would disgrace a high school team.
29: Denver Broncos
Contentious? No. The team can't play Defence. Champ Bailey is tremendous, an asset in every sense, but he is alone, an island in a sea of mediocrity. The team will give up huge rushing totals this year, and unfortunately, their Offence is pretty much dependent on their potentially-quite-good playmaker, WR Brandon Marshall, living up to his promise. QB Jay Cutler is one of the better players in the league, but like Bailey, he is going to spend long periods of 2008 feeling that his hard work is in vain. Thankfully, both players can book holidays for January, as they won't be needing their pads in the offseason.
30: Kansas City Chiefs
A team in rebuilding mode, but unlike the Falcons, Raiders and Dolphins, a team that could easily spend this year without a win. This team could either be great in the future, or the fans at Arrowhead could lament the 'class of 2008' in years to come. Either way, it's too soon to judge them, and the team's youth will be a big factor in many losses they experience this season. Although too soon to write off, it's best if many of the players book psychological counselling now, to avoid the rush once the season begins in Kansas City.
31: St. Louis Rams
Wow, it really isn't a good year to be in Missouri. The Rams are somehow worse than last season. Chris Long, a DE, is helping at a position of need, but realistically, St. Louis needs an Offensive line that can take the pounding of a 16 game season. Orlando Pace, Alex Barron, Rich Incognito. If you follow football, you may be familiar with these names, and likewise, if you follow injury reports, you may be familiar with these names. Marc Bulger has become re-acquainted with the St. Louis turf so often he probably shuns his wife and sleeps on the sofa, purely because the thought of spending all night lying down with someone prostrated on top of you just doesn't appeal when it is also your day job. The Rams have players who should in - theory - make this team good. Steven Jackson for example, but his holdout will set this team back 4-5 weeks, and by that time, this season is over for the Rams.
32: San Francisco 49ers
The worst team in the NFL. That's the San Francisco 49ers. Where to start? The third string QB? The 'upgraded' receiver corps of a 35yr old ex-Ram and a mediocre ex Cardinal? The addition of DeShaun Foster, a man who I wouldn't trust with the ball if his hand was covered in tar, or finally the decimated Defensive and Offensive lines? This team is shambolic, and the buck stops with coach Mike Nolan.
Nolan is a personable and friendly guy, but he has made some terrible decisions since his tenure began, and his decision to effectively give up on Alex Smith, the first overall pick just three years ago, shows that no matter what happens this year, he is unlikely to accept that he is the problem. Smith deserved better, and at least a shot at the Mike Martz offence this season. Instead, J.T. O'Sullivan will call the shots. Possibly the only bright spot is the continued ascendency of Patrick Willis, the Linebacker who is set to become one of the league's biggest stars. Indeed, the LB class of 2007, with Willis, Carolina's Jon Beason, and the Jets' David Harris, could well be one of the best in recent NFL history.
Which is certainly the only time that sentence will be used in the same paragraph as the 49ers in 2008.
The Wide-Right 'Predictions and Rankings' for the 2008 Season
Just so you don't think we've forgotten about the site, we thought we'd let you know what we've been doing in the last few days.
Around 2 weeks ago it became clear that writing the team previews - at least in the style that we wanted - would be difficult to achieve before the start of the season. Yes, we know, we should have had this done weeks ago, but so much changes week by week in the NFL (See also: Chad Jackson...), that writing a team preview before cuts have been made is slightly inaccurate.
Thus, later today we will bring you not only the Wide-Right first weekly power rankings, but also our predictions table. We'll also have a fantasy football update and we're considering giving wide-right readers a chance to see exactly how our 16-player Dynasty League goes this season.
In short: It's business time.
Around 2 weeks ago it became clear that writing the team previews - at least in the style that we wanted - would be difficult to achieve before the start of the season. Yes, we know, we should have had this done weeks ago, but so much changes week by week in the NFL (See also: Chad Jackson...), that writing a team preview before cuts have been made is slightly inaccurate.
Thus, later today we will bring you not only the Wide-Right first weekly power rankings, but also our predictions table. We'll also have a fantasy football update and we're considering giving wide-right readers a chance to see exactly how our 16-player Dynasty League goes this season.
In short: It's business time.
Sunday, 31 August 2008
Hurricane Gustav
While our thoughts are obviously with those who are displaced by the oncoming category 3-4 Hurricane Gustav, we can't help but feel that this could be the end of the Saints in New Orleans.
Owner Tom Benson was angling to leave the city shortly before Hurricane Katrina devastated the area in 2005, but due to overwhelming public pressure, was forced to keep any plans on hold. With the city apparently returning to somewhere approaching normal, it was always going to be crunch time for Benson as to whether he would continue in New Orleans, or perhaps investigate other avenues.
One possibility is that if the area is affected in a similiar manner to 2005, the city of New Orleans - as extreme as this may sound - may become almost uninhabitable. Unfortunately for those in Louisiana, it is unlikely that the Saints would stick around, although short term they will likely play in Baton Rouge if there are any problems with the Superdome.
Long term, it is entirely feasible that we are witnessing the final throes of the New Orleans frnachise. Los Angeles based Developer Ed Roski Jr, who has pushed for the establishment of a franchise in the L.A. area, said on Friday that he is in 'no doubt' that a team will play there - most likely at the Rose Bowl - in 2009.
As it stands, the next two days could be the birth of the Los Angeles Saints.
Owner Tom Benson was angling to leave the city shortly before Hurricane Katrina devastated the area in 2005, but due to overwhelming public pressure, was forced to keep any plans on hold. With the city apparently returning to somewhere approaching normal, it was always going to be crunch time for Benson as to whether he would continue in New Orleans, or perhaps investigate other avenues.
One possibility is that if the area is affected in a similiar manner to 2005, the city of New Orleans - as extreme as this may sound - may become almost uninhabitable. Unfortunately for those in Louisiana, it is unlikely that the Saints would stick around, although short term they will likely play in Baton Rouge if there are any problems with the Superdome.
Long term, it is entirely feasible that we are witnessing the final throes of the New Orleans frnachise. Los Angeles based Developer Ed Roski Jr, who has pushed for the establishment of a franchise in the L.A. area, said on Friday that he is in 'no doubt' that a team will play there - most likely at the Rose Bowl - in 2009.
As it stands, the next two days could be the birth of the Los Angeles Saints.
All-Cut Offence
Late last night, we started wondering about the chances of putting together the 'best of the worst' in NFL terms. Of course, the players cut yesterday are far from 'the worst' in the NFL, but the fact that they are cut is a symbolic way of saying that they're unwanted.
Here's the Offence of the 'all cuts' Roster.
QB: Chris Simms (Tampa Bay)
RB: Rudi Johnson (Cincinnati)
FB: Jason Davis (Philadelphia)
WR: Roydell Williams (Tennessee)
WR: Reche Caldwell (St. Louis)
TE: Justin Peelle - (Miami)
OT: Willie Anderson (Cincinnati)
OT: Chad Slaughter (Baltimore)
OG: Adrien Clarke (Baltimore)
OG: Kynan Forney (Atlanta)
C: Dan Mozes (Minnesota)
Ah yes, the names just trip off the tongue don't they? Of the team, players such as Chris Simms and Willie Anderson should easily find new homes. Their reputation and ability is enough to get them a roster spot somewhere, and we imagine the fight for Simms could get interesting.
Even though the Bears have named Kyle Orton as starter, it would be a huge boost to the Offence if Simms was to land in Chicago. There is no doubt that he would be an upgrade at the position, and in fact, the team might be interested in Anderson as a stop-gap this year, while 14th overall selection Chris Williams recovers from his herniated disc.
Here's the Offence of the 'all cuts' Roster.
QB: Chris Simms (Tampa Bay)
RB: Rudi Johnson (Cincinnati)
FB: Jason Davis (Philadelphia)
WR: Roydell Williams (Tennessee)
WR: Reche Caldwell (St. Louis)
TE: Justin Peelle - (Miami)
OT: Willie Anderson (Cincinnati)
OT: Chad Slaughter (Baltimore)
OG: Adrien Clarke (Baltimore)
OG: Kynan Forney (Atlanta)
C: Dan Mozes (Minnesota)
Ah yes, the names just trip off the tongue don't they? Of the team, players such as Chris Simms and Willie Anderson should easily find new homes. Their reputation and ability is enough to get them a roster spot somewhere, and we imagine the fight for Simms could get interesting.
Even though the Bears have named Kyle Orton as starter, it would be a huge boost to the Offence if Simms was to land in Chicago. There is no doubt that he would be an upgrade at the position, and in fact, the team might be interested in Anderson as a stop-gap this year, while 14th overall selection Chris Williams recovers from his herniated disc.
Saturday, 30 August 2008
10 Impact Players in 2008
With the 2008 Regular Season mere days away, here's our quick guide to the ten players who should break into the nation's conscious over the next 6 months. Some are high draft picks who have yet to prove themselves, others are veterans who perhaps needed a change of scenery, and some are almost complete unknowns. Regardless of their background, we think they'll post career numbers this year.
Kevin Walter - WR - Houston Texans
The Texans envisage Walter as the perfect compliment to No.1 Andre Johnson, who faces plenty of double coverage as the team's only proven threat. All that could change this year, as the team elevated Walter to second on the depth chart after a strong Training Camp. He then repaid their faith with an excellent preseason, where his connection with QB Matt Schaub (another candidate for a a breakout year) was especially evident.
Even without elite speed, he has enough to get open, though perhaps his best attribute is quite simply his ability to adjust and catch the ball in situations where lesser receivers will give up on the catch. It has endeared him to coach Gary Kubiak, and it should finally mean that the team is not completely reliant on Johnson in the passing game.
Ernie Sims - LB - Detroit Lions
Sims's 8 tackles and 1 sack in the Lions' third preseason game was simply a continuation of his stellar play towards the end of last season. As a player, he has shown that he is ready to break into the upper echelon of Linebackers, but it is as a leader of the Detroit Defence that Sims has truly established himself.
With the kind of motor that keeps him involved in almost every play, Sims will be guaranteed some big statistics this year, but as we say, statistics alone will not be the only way that Sims contributes to a defence in sore need of someone to step up and establish himself as the true leader of the team.
Cortland Finnegan - CB - Tennessee Titans
Like Sims, Finnegan has the high motor and instincts that keep him involved in plays that he almost has no right to be anywhere near. The Titans coaching staff are so high on Finnegan - the team's 7th round choice in the 2006 draft - that they recently tied him to a 4 year extension worth $17m. Finnegan has earned every single penny, and fought his way up through the team's depth chart in almost the polar opposite manner to Adam Jones, the man he has replaced.
With the intelligence and physical ability needed to progress to the next level, Finnegan has a golden opportunity at the age of just 24, to establish himself in the upper echelon of NFL Defensive Backs.
Jerry Porter - WR - Jacksonville Jaguars
An enigma for much of his time in the NFL, Jerry Porter left Oakland after two years of conflict and injury this season for the Municipal Stadium in Jacksonville. It would be easy to dismiss Porter's chances of repairing his tarnished image, but the guy is not done in this league just yet. If he can stay healthy, Porter has all of the tools to be resuscitate his career.
Another important factor is that throughout his time in Oakland, Porter was hampered by poor Quarterback play and an almost constant revolving door at the position. In Jacksonville, the team has David Garrard established as the starter, and there is no doubt that Garrard has the ability to get more out of the anaemic passing game than his predecessor Byron Leftwich.
The Jags are ready to mount a challenge, and if they are to do so, Porter will need to come up big.
Haloti Ngata - DT Baltimore Ravens
When the Ravens swapped their pick with Cleveland to move up one place during the first round of the 2006 NFL draft, they did so with just one player in mind. Haloti Ngata. The Oregon product would have soldified the Browns' D-line for the following five years minimum, but instead, it is Baltimore that is about to see the best of the mammoth Defensive Tackle.
Ngata has been injured in preseason, something that could curb the amount of time he sees in the early part of the season, but expect him to be a key part of the team's Defence come the latter half of the season. Any successful Defence needs a guy to cause disruption up front, and Ngata should build on a solid 2007 season to become the player that the Ravens need.
Chad Jackson - WR - New England Patriots
This list is full of players whose NFL careers haven't quite panned out as they expected because of injury. None can class themself as unfortunate as Chad Jackson.
Jackson entered the league as a second rounder, hoping to jump start a lifeless New England receiving unit. Unfortunately, after a patchy 2006 season that saw him struggle through countless injuries, he suffered a torn ACL during the AFC championship game against the Colts, thus not only ending his 2006 season, but also his 2007 season.
In that time, not only did many people forget about Jackson, but the team chose the 2007 offseason to upgrade the receiving unit with veterans Randy Moss, Wes Welker, and Donte Stallworth - thus pushing Jackson even further towards the door marked 'bust'. This year, Jackson hopes to make the most of the void left by Stallworth's departure to establish himself on the team. Jabar Gaffney is the team's third receiver, but Jackson will likely field punts and kickoffs in an attempt to get more playing time.
With the ball in his hands, Jackson can be a star. If he is injured again, his time in New England could be up.
Roddy White - WR - Atlanta Falcons
White is one of the beneficiaries of the Michael Vick fiasco. The team invested high picks in White, Michael Jenkins, and Laurent Robinson during Vick's tenure, but none were able to fulfil their promise. There comes a point where you have to ask, were their selections really down to poor personnel skills?
Put simply, no. Vick's tendency to check down to Tight End Alge Crumpler not only inflated his numbers, but also made his Wideouts almost redundant. For everything Vick brought to the team with his scrambling ability and ability to save broken plays, he hindered the progress of three crucial elements in the Falcons' future offensive plans.
With Vick gone, White will thrive. He showed much more promise last year, and this year, we could be about to see the next Manning-Harrison combination in the NFL. Seriously. Matt Ryan has the ability and mentality to bring on the talented receiving corps, and White should be the main beneficiary.
DeAngelo Williams - RB - Carolina Panthers
Many of the players in this list are third year players who should be establishing themselves not only as starters, but as productive players who justify their team's investment. Williams is a classic example. Stuck behind DeShaun Foster (The walking fumble) for two years, he looked fantastic in flashes, often capitalising on weary defences for big gains that perhaps made his statistics slightly misleading.
With Foster's release at the end of last year, Williams was elevated to no.1 back - a situation that was only clear for a few months, as the team again selected a first round Running Back - Oregon's Jonathan Stewart. A big, bruising back who will be the thunder to Williams's lightning, Stewart should wear down defences much more effectively than Foster ever could, and in turn. we could see more carries and more big plays from Williams.
Nate Burleson - WR - Seattle Seahawks
'Speed kills' as John Madden (and countless Government adverts) constantly tell us. If it does, then perhaps Nate Burleson could be set to murder a few Defences this season.
Aquired from the Vikings almost in retribution for the Steve Hutchinson 'Poison Pill' incident - in which Hutchinson was signed to an offer sheet that would have been impossible for the Seahawks to match - Burleson failed to make much of an impact in 2006, but last season started to progress in the manner that the team ahd hoped. Burleson not only returns kicks, but he can be one of the most effective big play receivers in the NFL when he is on form. Unfortunately, he has often struggled with ball security and drops, something that seemed to be ironed out in 2007.
With Deion Branch looking unlikely to play early in the season, Burleson is the natural go-to guy for Matt Hasselbeck. If he gets on the board early, this could be the season that Burleson breaks out and becomes the number two in Seattle.
Eric Weddle - S - San Diego
The Chargers secondary has been a weak point for some time. Safeties Clinton Hart and Marlon McCree, as well as Cornerbacks Drayton Florence and Quentin Jammer, were all considered as players who - despite some talent - were not effective as a unit. McCree and Florence have left the team this season, and one player who stands to benefit is Safety Eric Weddle.
Weddle and CB Antonio Cromartie are the future of this team's Defence. Cromartie broke out in his second year last season, and now it is Weddle's turn. After limited action as the dime back in 2007, Weddle will see his playing time increase dramatically in 2008. Hart's position is not considered secure by any means, and ideally, the team would like to see Weddle push for the starting job early on in the season.
Weddle's biggest attribute is his versatility. Weddle's athletic ability is rare, and this means that he is able to stay on the field in almost any situation. Not only should Weddle be the starter at Strong Safety by the end of the season, but expect him to become one of the leaders on the NFL's most talented roster.
Kevin Walter - WR - Houston Texans
The Texans envisage Walter as the perfect compliment to No.1 Andre Johnson, who faces plenty of double coverage as the team's only proven threat. All that could change this year, as the team elevated Walter to second on the depth chart after a strong Training Camp. He then repaid their faith with an excellent preseason, where his connection with QB Matt Schaub (another candidate for a a breakout year) was especially evident.
Even without elite speed, he has enough to get open, though perhaps his best attribute is quite simply his ability to adjust and catch the ball in situations where lesser receivers will give up on the catch. It has endeared him to coach Gary Kubiak, and it should finally mean that the team is not completely reliant on Johnson in the passing game.
Ernie Sims - LB - Detroit Lions
Sims's 8 tackles and 1 sack in the Lions' third preseason game was simply a continuation of his stellar play towards the end of last season. As a player, he has shown that he is ready to break into the upper echelon of Linebackers, but it is as a leader of the Detroit Defence that Sims has truly established himself.
With the kind of motor that keeps him involved in almost every play, Sims will be guaranteed some big statistics this year, but as we say, statistics alone will not be the only way that Sims contributes to a defence in sore need of someone to step up and establish himself as the true leader of the team.
Cortland Finnegan - CB - Tennessee Titans
Like Sims, Finnegan has the high motor and instincts that keep him involved in plays that he almost has no right to be anywhere near. The Titans coaching staff are so high on Finnegan - the team's 7th round choice in the 2006 draft - that they recently tied him to a 4 year extension worth $17m. Finnegan has earned every single penny, and fought his way up through the team's depth chart in almost the polar opposite manner to Adam Jones, the man he has replaced.
With the intelligence and physical ability needed to progress to the next level, Finnegan has a golden opportunity at the age of just 24, to establish himself in the upper echelon of NFL Defensive Backs.
Jerry Porter - WR - Jacksonville Jaguars
An enigma for much of his time in the NFL, Jerry Porter left Oakland after two years of conflict and injury this season for the Municipal Stadium in Jacksonville. It would be easy to dismiss Porter's chances of repairing his tarnished image, but the guy is not done in this league just yet. If he can stay healthy, Porter has all of the tools to be resuscitate his career.
Another important factor is that throughout his time in Oakland, Porter was hampered by poor Quarterback play and an almost constant revolving door at the position. In Jacksonville, the team has David Garrard established as the starter, and there is no doubt that Garrard has the ability to get more out of the anaemic passing game than his predecessor Byron Leftwich.
The Jags are ready to mount a challenge, and if they are to do so, Porter will need to come up big.
Haloti Ngata - DT Baltimore Ravens
When the Ravens swapped their pick with Cleveland to move up one place during the first round of the 2006 NFL draft, they did so with just one player in mind. Haloti Ngata. The Oregon product would have soldified the Browns' D-line for the following five years minimum, but instead, it is Baltimore that is about to see the best of the mammoth Defensive Tackle.
Ngata has been injured in preseason, something that could curb the amount of time he sees in the early part of the season, but expect him to be a key part of the team's Defence come the latter half of the season. Any successful Defence needs a guy to cause disruption up front, and Ngata should build on a solid 2007 season to become the player that the Ravens need.
Chad Jackson - WR - New England Patriots
This list is full of players whose NFL careers haven't quite panned out as they expected because of injury. None can class themself as unfortunate as Chad Jackson.
Jackson entered the league as a second rounder, hoping to jump start a lifeless New England receiving unit. Unfortunately, after a patchy 2006 season that saw him struggle through countless injuries, he suffered a torn ACL during the AFC championship game against the Colts, thus not only ending his 2006 season, but also his 2007 season.
In that time, not only did many people forget about Jackson, but the team chose the 2007 offseason to upgrade the receiving unit with veterans Randy Moss, Wes Welker, and Donte Stallworth - thus pushing Jackson even further towards the door marked 'bust'. This year, Jackson hopes to make the most of the void left by Stallworth's departure to establish himself on the team. Jabar Gaffney is the team's third receiver, but Jackson will likely field punts and kickoffs in an attempt to get more playing time.
With the ball in his hands, Jackson can be a star. If he is injured again, his time in New England could be up.
Roddy White - WR - Atlanta Falcons
White is one of the beneficiaries of the Michael Vick fiasco. The team invested high picks in White, Michael Jenkins, and Laurent Robinson during Vick's tenure, but none were able to fulfil their promise. There comes a point where you have to ask, were their selections really down to poor personnel skills?
Put simply, no. Vick's tendency to check down to Tight End Alge Crumpler not only inflated his numbers, but also made his Wideouts almost redundant. For everything Vick brought to the team with his scrambling ability and ability to save broken plays, he hindered the progress of three crucial elements in the Falcons' future offensive plans.
With Vick gone, White will thrive. He showed much more promise last year, and this year, we could be about to see the next Manning-Harrison combination in the NFL. Seriously. Matt Ryan has the ability and mentality to bring on the talented receiving corps, and White should be the main beneficiary.
DeAngelo Williams - RB - Carolina Panthers
Many of the players in this list are third year players who should be establishing themselves not only as starters, but as productive players who justify their team's investment. Williams is a classic example. Stuck behind DeShaun Foster (The walking fumble) for two years, he looked fantastic in flashes, often capitalising on weary defences for big gains that perhaps made his statistics slightly misleading.
With Foster's release at the end of last year, Williams was elevated to no.1 back - a situation that was only clear for a few months, as the team again selected a first round Running Back - Oregon's Jonathan Stewart. A big, bruising back who will be the thunder to Williams's lightning, Stewart should wear down defences much more effectively than Foster ever could, and in turn. we could see more carries and more big plays from Williams.
Nate Burleson - WR - Seattle Seahawks
'Speed kills' as John Madden (and countless Government adverts) constantly tell us. If it does, then perhaps Nate Burleson could be set to murder a few Defences this season.
Aquired from the Vikings almost in retribution for the Steve Hutchinson 'Poison Pill' incident - in which Hutchinson was signed to an offer sheet that would have been impossible for the Seahawks to match - Burleson failed to make much of an impact in 2006, but last season started to progress in the manner that the team ahd hoped. Burleson not only returns kicks, but he can be one of the most effective big play receivers in the NFL when he is on form. Unfortunately, he has often struggled with ball security and drops, something that seemed to be ironed out in 2007.
With Deion Branch looking unlikely to play early in the season, Burleson is the natural go-to guy for Matt Hasselbeck. If he gets on the board early, this could be the season that Burleson breaks out and becomes the number two in Seattle.
Eric Weddle - S - San Diego
The Chargers secondary has been a weak point for some time. Safeties Clinton Hart and Marlon McCree, as well as Cornerbacks Drayton Florence and Quentin Jammer, were all considered as players who - despite some talent - were not effective as a unit. McCree and Florence have left the team this season, and one player who stands to benefit is Safety Eric Weddle.
Weddle and CB Antonio Cromartie are the future of this team's Defence. Cromartie broke out in his second year last season, and now it is Weddle's turn. After limited action as the dime back in 2007, Weddle will see his playing time increase dramatically in 2008. Hart's position is not considered secure by any means, and ideally, the team would like to see Weddle push for the starting job early on in the season.
Weddle's biggest attribute is his versatility. Weddle's athletic ability is rare, and this means that he is able to stay on the field in almost any situation. Not only should Weddle be the starter at Strong Safety by the end of the season, but expect him to become one of the leaders on the NFL's most talented roster.
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