Projected points are based on traditional fantasy scoring systems, where you get 1 point for 20 yards passing, 10 yards rushing/receiving; and 6 points for a touchdown. When I post my Top 150, I’ll have lists for traditional, PPR and touchdown leagues. I’ll also have notifications if a player is better or worse in one of those scoring systems.
A key for these notifications is at the bottom of the page.
Updated Aug. 31
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Randy Moss, Patriots
Randy Moss was unstoppable during the early stages of his record-breaking season. In his first four games, he had 31 receptions, 505 yards and seven touchdowns – which put him on pace for 124 catches, 2,020 yards and 28 scores. Crazy stuff. Moss wore down late in the year, so it’s no surprise that thesportingnews.com reported that the Patriots will hold Moss to a rep count so that he doesn’t wear down again. Still, Moss is the No. 1 receiver this season.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,325 receiving yards. 16 total TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 228.
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Andre Johnson, Texans
Andre Johnson had 60 receptions for 851 yards and eight touchdowns in just nine starts last year. If you translate that over a 16-game slate, Johnson would have notched 107 receptions, 1,512 yards and 14 touchdowns. I think that’s pretty good, how about you? For the first time in his career, Johnson enters a season with a proven quarterback at the helm. He should be one of the first wide outs off the board.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,400 receiving yards. 12 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 212.
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Reggie Wayne, Colts
Wow… Talk about stepping up when needed most. With Marvin Harrison out, it was obvious Peyton Manning would need to depend on Reggie Wayne. Wayne didn’t disappoint, registering Randy Moss-like numbers (104 catches, 1,510 yards). The sick thing is, Wayne didn’t really get going until Week 7, as he put up pretty pedestrian numbers Weeks 2-5. Given that Harrison is facing injury problems and gun charges, Wayne should be in for another terrific campaign.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,450 receiving yards. 10 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 205.
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Braylon Edwards, Browns 
Last year I wrote, “If only he had a quarterback who can get him the ball.” Well, guess what? Thanks to Derek Anderson, Braylon Edwards had 80 receptions, 1,289 yards and a mind-boggling 16 touchdowns. With no evidence that Cleveland’s offense will slow down, Edwards should be one of the first receivers off the board.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,225 receiving yards. 13 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 200.
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Terrell Owens, Cowboys
Armed with a top-notch quarterback for an entire season for the first time since 2004, Terrell Owens dominated opposing defenses, catching 81 passes for 1,355 yards and 15 touchdowns. While Owens turns 35 in December, he’s in shape enough to have two or three more elite years in the NFL. Barring injury, I don’t see a dropoff coming until the next decade.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,225 receiving yards. 13 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 200.
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Marques Colston, Saints 
So much for a sophomore slump. After an amazing rookie season (70 catches, 1,038 yards and eight touchdowns), Marques Colston squashed those numbers, registering 98 receptions, 1,202 yards and 11 touchdowns. Colston’s pretty consistent; after Week 7, there were only two contests where he didn’t register at least seven catches.
AUG. 28 UPDATE: Marques Colston snagged in two balls for 25 yards in the first quarter before leaving the game with bruised ribs. He’ll be fine.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,300 receiving yards. 10 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 190.
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Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals
If you draft Larry Fitzgerald and he gets off to a poor start, don’t get too concerned. Fitzgerald scored 10 touchdowns in 2007, but didn’t get into the end zone until Week 5. That’s because his production was limited with Matt Leinart at the helm. If Leinart struggles yet again and Ken Whisenhunt decides to stick with him for some reason, Fitzgerald’s production will suffer. Fitzgerald owners: Prepare your hate mail for Whisenhunt.
AUG. 8 UPDATE: I would have reservations about drafting Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin; neither put up monstrous numbers with Matt Leinart under center in 2007, and it looks like Leinart will be the guy – at least during the early stages of the season. With Chad Pennington no longer guaranteed a starting job, Leinart now takes over as King of the Checkdown.
AUG. 25 UPDATE: I didn’t get a chance to see the Raiders-Cardinals yet, but Kurt Warner has been named Arizona’s starting quarterback for the regular season. Matt Leinart bombed with a 4-of-12 for 24 yards and three interception showing. It’s good that this happened now rather than later; Leinart has thrown nothing but checkdowns this preseason and has yet to prove that he can learn an NFL offense. Warner gives the Cardinals the best chance to win. He’s a very solid option as a starting fantasy quarterback. It’s also safe to draft Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,225 receiving yards. 10 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 182.
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T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Bengals
Fifth pick, sixth round, T.J. Houshmazoad. Lock it up! Houshmandzadeh, who improves his numbers every year, had more receptions (112) and touchdowns (12) than Chad Johnson (93; 8). Johnson beat him in yardage, but Houshmandzadeh presented more value, as Johnson was chosen earlier in most leagues. Fifth pick, sixth round? We can only dream about getting him there now.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,175 receiving yards. 10 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 177.
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Plaxico Burress, Giants
Plaxico Burress’ 6-5, 230-pound frame makes him an easy touchdown target. He has 22 scores the past two seasons, not including his game-winner in the Super Bowl. Burress is looking for a new contract, so he’s definitely motivated.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,050 receiving yards. 11 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 171.
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Chad Johnson, Bengals 
Chad Johnson wants to be traded. Actually, scratch that… No one, including Chad, knows what he wants. There’s always a chance No. 85 won’t show up to training camp, but I have to believe he’ll miss the attention if he skips a few days. It looks like he’ll once again accumulate massive yardage (1,440 in 2007) and give Carson Palmer headaches.
AUG. 18 UPDATE: Chad Johnson had his fantasy owners panicking when he left the game with a shoulder injury. However, all reports thus far indicate that it’s just a sprain. Mr. Ocho Cinco should be OK for Week 1.
AUG. 20 UPDATE: Bengals.com confirms speculation that the Chris Henry signing has to do with Chad Johnson’s shoulder injury. Drop Mr. Ocho Cinco down on your lists just a bit and watch his progress. I’ll report any information I get.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,130 receiving yards. 8 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 169.
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Calvin Johnson, Lions 
Calvin Johnson didn’t exactly dominate like many expected the 2007 No. 2 overall pick to. But Johnson had 48 receptions, 756 yards and four touchdowns as a rookie, with the majority of his production coming in the second half of the season. If you take Johnson before Roy Williams in your fantasy draft, I can’t really criticize you.
AUG. 9 UPDATE: Calvin Johnson caught four passes for 78 yards in just one quarter of action against the Giants’ first-string defense. It looked like New York couldn’t cover Johnson, who seems poised for a huge season.
AUG. 18 UPDATE: Calvin Johnson is unstoppable. We could be talking Terrell Owens-Randy Moss territory. On the first play of the game, Johnson leaped way over poor Leon Hall for a 40-yard reception. On the next drive, Johnson bulldozed Cincinnati’s other starting corner, Jonathan Joseph, and caught a 27-yard touchdown. Johnson finished with 76 yards on three receptions. All this took place in the first two drives of the game. Johnson played on one more possession, but that was a three-and-out with Dan Orlovsky under center. Don’t be afraid to draft Johnson in the fourth round of your 12-man league.
AUG. 25 UPDATE: Calvin Johnson caught two balls in two drives for 16 yards. Johnson’s second reception was a quick out. He was able to break out of a tackle and stretch the ball close to the first-down marker, despite getting hit about five yards away from it.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,200 receiving yards. 8 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 168.
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Brandon Marshall, Broncos
I said Brandon Marshall was a sleeper last year, but I didn’t expect him to emerge as one of the better receivers in the league. In only his second season, Marshall notched 102 receptions, 1,325 yards and seven touchdowns. Not bad, huh? I’m a bit concerned with the nerve damage in his arm, but they say he should be ready by training camp. If it weren’t for that injury, Marshall would be one of my top fantasy wide outs; as I mentioned above, his numbers in the final four weeks of the season were sick: 37 catches, 411 yards and three scores. Stretch those figures over a 16-game slate, and you have 148 receptions, 1,644 yards and 12 touchdowns.
AUG. 5 UPDATE: Brandon Marshall has been suspended for the first three games of the season. That sentence could be reduced to two if he goes to couseling. However, Marshall could be docked more games if he’s found guilty in a DUI trial next month.
AUG. 23 UPDATE: Brandon Marshall caught two passes for 71 yards and a 49-yard touchdown. Marshall snagged in the pass on a fade pattern, bobbled the ball twice while running, finally held on to it and ran into the end zone. Marshall would be an early third-round fantasy prospect if he weren’t facing a two-game suspension.
AUG. 29 UPDATE: Brandon Marshall has won his appeal, and will be suspended for only one game; not two.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,125 receiving yards. 9 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 166.
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Torry Holt, Rams
Torry Holt just turned 32, but I have to believe he still has a few more productive seasons left in the tank. In a down year for St. Louis’ offense, Holt managed 93 receptions, 1,189 yards and seven touchdowns.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,175 receiving yards. 8 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 165.
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Anquan Boldin, Cardinals
Read what I wrote about Larry Fitzgerald. Same applies to Anquan Boldin. Boldin had 853 yards and nine touchdowns, but missed four games.
AUG. 8 UPDATE: I would have reservations about drafting Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin; neither put up monstrous numbers with Matt Leinart under center in 2007, and it looks like Leinart will be the guy – at least during the early stages of the season. With Chad Pennington no longer guaranteed a starting job, Leinart now takes over as King of the Checkdown.
AUG. 25 UPDATE: I didn’t get a chance to see the Raiders-Cardinals yet, but Kurt Warner has been named Arizona’s starting quarterback for the regular season. Matt Leinart bombed with a 4-of-12 for 24 yards and three interception showing. It’s good that this happened now rather than later; Leinart has thrown nothing but checkdowns this preseason and has yet to prove that he can learn an NFL offense. Warner gives the Cardinals the best chance to win. He’s a very solid option as a starting fantasy quarterback. It’s also safe to draft Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,175 receiving yards. 8 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 165.
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Steve Smith, Panthers
Steve Smith had a “down year” (87 receptions, 1,002 yards and seven touchdowns) because he couldn’t get anything going with Vinny Testaverde and David Carr. Good news though – if Jake Delhomme struggles with his elbow, Smith’s production should stay steady, as he registered 22 catches, 257 yards and a touchdown in the three contests Matt Moore started.
AUG. 5 UPDATE: Steve Smith beat up corner Ken Lucas, and was consequently suspended for the first two games of the season. I’m confused. If Smith wanted to pummel a corner, he should have went after Chris Gamble, the worst of the three top cornerbacks Carolina has on its roster.
AUG. 26 UPDATE: Steve Smith caught four passes for 60 yards and a touchdown. His 33-yard score was a short completion, a side step that fooled a Washington corner and an easy gallop toward the end zone.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,125 receiving yards. 8 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 160.
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Santonio Holmes, Steelers 
Santonio Holmes had a nice rookie campaign (49 receptions, 824 yards, 2 TDs), and on the surface, it doesn’t appear that he improved because while his touchdown total soared to eight, he had 52 catches for 942 yards. Not much of an increase, but he missed three contests and was limited in a fourth. He’s Big Ben’s No. 1 target. If Ben Roethlisberger’s at 100 percent, expect more from Holmes.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,200 receiving yards. 6 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 156.
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Marvin Harrison, Colts
Not only is Marvin Harrison coming off a huge injury at 36, he’s also facing gun charges that could deter his offseason routine, which is extremely important for someone his age. I really have no idea what to expect here, so caveat emptor.
AUG. 15 UPDATE: He’s baaack! Marvin Harrison looked solid, catching three balls for 22 yards from Jim Sorgi.
AUG. 19 UPDATE: Marvin Harrison caught the first pass of the game for the Colts, a short 5-yard reception from Jim Sorgi. He finished with two catches and 11 yards, as his production was limited without Peyton Manning under center.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,000 receiving yards. 8 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 148.
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Roy Williams, Lions
Roy Williams is dominant when healthy. It’s the “when healthy” part that should concern you if you draft him. In 12 games, Williams had 64 receptions, 838 yards and five touchdowns in 2007, which was disappointing when compared to his 2006 numbers (82 catches, 1,310 yards, seven touchdowns). I don’t expect Williams’ production to slip in Jim Colletto’s balanced offense; it’ll be Shaun McDonald and Mike Furrey whose numbers dwindle.
AUG. 25 UPDATE: Roy Williams made an amazing one-handed catch that was thrown behind him along the sideline on Detroit’s first drive. Jon Kitna threw the ball while under pressure.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,050 receiving yards. 7 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 147.
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Jerricho Cotchery, Jets 
Jerricho Cotchery is an ever-improving receiver who passed Laveranues Coles as the team’s No. 1 target last year. Cotchery had 82 receptions and 1,130 yards. Unfortunately, he scored only twice, as New York’s offense was extremely stagnant in the red zone.
AUG. 8 UPDATE: I don’t think the Jets will make the playoffs, even with the addition of Brett Favre, so the two guys who could be the happiest once the season is over are Jerricho Cotchery and Laveranues Coles. They no longer have to worry about a guy who isn’t ready to play or a quarterback who flings the ball around like a 12-year-old girl.
AUG. 17 UPDATE: Jerricho Cotchery managed a pair of receptions for 30 yards during Favre’s two drives. With Laveranues Coles spending a lot of time in his hotel room with his beloved Chad Pennington blowup doll, you can tell that Favre already trusts Cotchery as his No. 1 option. Cotchery could be primed for a huge, Donald Driver-like campaign.
AUG. 26 UPDATE: Jerricho Cotchery had just one catch for 30 yards in the first half, but a 49-yard touchdown of his was nullified by a Bubba Franks illegal shift. Laveranues Coles was too busy spending time with his Chad Pennington blowup doll to play.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,175 receiving yards. 5 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 147.
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Roddy White, Falcons
After accomplishing nothing in his first two NFL seasons (952 yards, three touchdowns), Roddy White came out of nowhere to register 83 receptions, 1,202 yards and six touchdowns despite the garbage Atlanta had at quarterback. White was consistent all year, though his end-zone opportunities were limited as a result of playing in a stale offense. White’s 2008 numbers are a bit unpredictable because we have no idea what to expect from Matt Ryan.
AUG. 11 UPDATE: Roddy White is a beast. He caught two poorly thrown balls from Matt Ryan, including one pass that was way behind him. He twisted his entire body around, did a 360 in the air, extended his arms and brought in a 25-yard touchdown. White finished with five receptions, 47 yards and that score.
AUG. 24 UPDATE: As mentioned, Roddy White was wide open in the end zone, but Matt Ryan couldn’t get it to him. Earlier, a White reception was nullified by offensive pass interference. White finished with one catch for one yard, but as you can tell, that’s a bit misleading.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,100 receiving yards. 6 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 145.
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Wes Welker, Patriots
I didn’t project Wes Welker to do well in my original 2007 Fantasy Football Rankings, but after watching Tom Brady go to him early and often in the preseason, I made note of it on this site and drafted Welker in all of my leagues. I don’t expect him to lead the league in receptions again, though he should have close to 95, making him even more valuable in PPR leagues. He might be overvalued otherwise.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,025 receiving yards. 7 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 144.
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Dwayne Bowe, Chiefs
Four years ago, an LSU receiver had a prolific rookie campaign. He had 80 catches, 1,193 yards and seven touchdowns. In the three seasons since then, 1,029 yards and one score. I’m talking about Michael Clayton. Last season, Dwayne Bowe, also from LSU, notched 70 receptions, 995 yards and five touchdowns. Let’s hope Bowe’s career doesn’t continue to mirror Clayton’s. I’m not saying it will, though I will say Bowe’s numbers won’t reach their maximum potential until the Chiefs have a solid quarterback under center.
AUG. 28 UPDATE: Dwayne Bowe caught two balls for 20 yards. Unfortunately, Brodie Croyle completely missed a wide-open Bowe in the end zone early in the third quarter. Bowe remains a solid WR3 option.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,010 receiving yards. 7 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 143.
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Greg Jennings, Packers
Greg Jennings would soon become a household name if he were playing in a larger market. In his second season, Jennings collected 53 receptions, 920 yards and an amazing 12 touchdowns – all while missing three games. I feel as though Jennings’ touchdown total could be a bit of an anomaly, but he’s still a rising star with a very bright future.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 1,050 receiving yards. 6 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 141.
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Laveranues Coles, Jets
Hampered by ankle injuries late in the year, Laveranues Coles had just 55 catches, 646 yards and six touchdowns. With poor quarterbacking, Coles will have trouble breaking the 1,000-yard plateau this season.
AUG. 8 UPDATE: I don’t think the Jets will make the playoffs, even with the addition of Brett Favre, so the two guys who could be the happiest once the season is over are Jerricho Cotchery and Laveranues Coles. They no longer have to worry about a guy who isn’t ready to play or a quarterback who flings the ball around like a 12-year-old girl.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 975 receiving yards. 6 total TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 133.
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Lee Evans, Bills
Feast or famine. Lee Evans had four games with five or more receptions, but also had seven contests with two or less catches. Evans is a speed receiver, but Trent Edwards’ deep accuracy isn’t as good as J.P. Losman’s. On the bright side, James Hardy’s presence will keep opposing defenses from double-teaming Evans. Personally, I wouldn’t draft Evans as anything higher than a WR3 because I prefer consistency. But that’s just me.
AUG. 15 UPDATE: After last week’s abysmal performance, Trent Edwards looked extremely sharp against a very solid Steelers defense. Almost all of Edwards’ throws were on the money, as the second-year signal-caller went 9-of-11 for 104 yards and two touchdowns. Edwards, who showed great presence in the pocket, also scrambled for a 22-yard gain on third-and-13 deep inside his own territory. Edwards converted the first down and later led Buffalo to its second score. Lee Evans caught three balls for 55 yards.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 975 receiving yards. 6 total TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 133.
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Vincent Jackson, Chargers
Vincent Jackson exploded in the postseason, catching 18 passes for 300 yards and two touchdowns in just three contests. So, should you use your fourth-round pick on this 6-5, 241-pound target? Well, considering Philip Rivers is coming off ACL surgery and Jackson has only five quality games in his career, I’d stay away unless he becomes value in a later round.
JULY 31 UPDATE: All the talk in Chargers camp is focused on how impressive Vincent Jackson has looked. This matches Jackson’s increased late-season production in 2007. Jackson would be a huge sleeper of mine if Philip Rivers weren’t coming off a torn ACL. Still, this vaults Jackson over the likes of Hines Ward, Donald Driver and Chris Chambers.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 950 receiving yards. 6 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 131.
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Chris Chambers, Chargers
It’s odd to say that Chris Chambers had a poor statistical season last year. Chambers managed just 970 yards and four touchdowns, mainly because he spent the middle of the year learning San Diego’s offense. I say it’s odd because it was Chambers’ third-best statistical year. Chambers has always been plagued with bad quarterbacking in Miami, whether it was Jay Fiedler, A.J. Feeley, Daunte Culpepper or Trent Green. Chambers’ numbers will thrive in San Diego, as long as Philip Rivers is healthy. Rivers may not be, so Chambers’ full potential may not be realized in 2008. But hey, it’ll be like every other season in his career.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 910 receiving yards. 6 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 127.
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Hines Ward, Steelers
I’d love to have Hines Ward on any real football team, but he may be overrated in the world of fantasy. Ward hasn’t notched more than 1,004 yards since 2003. He’s also 32 and coming off knee surgery.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 850 receiving yards. 7 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 127.
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Donald Driver, Packers
Donald Driver has eclipsed the 1,000-yard barrier in five of the past six years. He’s always been an underrated wide out. Unfortunately, Driver had two touchdowns last season. Even worse is the fact that he turned 33 in February. There might be a decline, though I feel that will come somewhere between 2009 and 2011. Also, keep in mind that Driver’s production could decrease because Brett Favre, who loved to throw to him in desperation, has retired.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 900 receiving yards. 6 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 126.
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Santana Moss, Redskins
So, the 1,483 yards and nine touchdowns in 2005 was a fluke after all… In the two years after accumulating those amazing stats, Santana Moss has 1,598 yards and nine scores. His production will suffer until Jason Campbell fully grasps Jim Zorn’s West Coast offense.
AUG. 10 UPDATE: Jason Campbell continued to look really sharp in his second preseason game in Jim Zorn’s West Coast offense. Campbell led the Redskins to a touchdown on the second drive of Saturday night’s contest, finishing 7-of-10 for 71 yards. And it’s not like Campbell was merely checking down; he threw multiple double-digit-yard strikes to his receivers, particularly Antwaan Randle El, who had three catches for 30 yards. With Campbell’s comfort in the new offense, Santana Moss’ numbers will be higher than I previously predicted.
AUG. 26 UPDATE: Santana Moss had just one catch for five yards, as Jason Campbell missed him downfield twice.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 925 receiving yards. 5 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 122.
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DeSean Jackson, Eagles
Another small Eagles receiver. What else is new? DeSean Jackson won’t have much success as a receiver in his rookie campaign.
AUG. 15 UPDATE: DeSean Jackson had multiple drops, but he finished with seven receptions and 71 yards, and definitely looks like the top wideout on the team.
AUG. 21 UPDATE: Andy Reid seldom plays rookies, but now he has no choice. With Kevin Curtis sidelined with a sports hernia until at least November, DeSean Jackson will get reps with the first team. Jackson is now draftable in every league.
AUG. 23 UPDATE: DeSean Jackson really adds a different element to Philadelphia’s offense. Jackson caught a short pass, but evaded multiple defenders with a devastating cut and ran past everyone else for an additional gain, totaling a net of 23 yards. Jackson led all Eagles receivers with four receptions and 67 yards.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 825 receiving yards. 5 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 112.
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Jerry Porter, Jaguars
Excluding Jimmy Smith, Jerry Porter is the best receiver David Garrard has ever worked with. But saying Porter is better than Reggie Williams, Matt Jones and Ernest Wilford is like saying Carl Winslow looks very slim compared to Sally Struthers and Roseanne.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 750 receiving yards. 6 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 111.
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Reggie Brown, Eagles
The Eagles love to spread the ball around, so I wouldn’t expect monstrous numbers from Reggie Brown, even though Andy Reid insists that he’s the No. 1 receiver. Like Kevin Curtis, Brown is a small-framed wide out who struggles against press-man coverage.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 800 receiving yards. 5 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 110.
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Ted Ginn, Dolphins
Even if Ted Ginn is a legitimate No. 1 receiver, he won’t be able to do anything with Miami’s horrific quarterbacking. Unless you get points for return yardage, there’s no reason to draft Ginn earlier than the 13th round. Ginn did show some promise with a 7-reception, 53-yard performance against the Bengals in Week 17, but that was the only contest where he had more than four catches.
AUG. 19 UPDATE: Ted Ginn made a really nice catch over the middle on Miami’s third drive for a 17-yard gain. Ginn collected four receptions for 58 yards in one half of action. With Pennington under center, Ginn has become somewhat of an intriguing late-round sleeper.
AUG. 28 UPDATE: Ted Ginn is an intriguing receiver in PPR leagues. Chad Pennington loves to throw short stuff, so like Laveranues Coles and Jerricho Cotchery, Ginn figures to garner a bunch of receptions this season. He’s still not much of a factor in touchdown leagues though. Ginn had three receptions for 29 yards against the Chiefs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 900 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 108.
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Patrick Crayton, Cowboys
“Nothing to get excited about in terms of fantasy football.” That’s what I wrote last year for Patrick Crayton. He responded with just 697 yards, though he notched seven scores. He’ll likely remain the team’s No. 2 regular wide out, but that doesn’t mean you should draft him until late in a non-touchdown league.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 725 receiving yards. 6 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 108.
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Josh Morgan, 49ers
Through two preseason games, Josh Morgan has nine catches, 182 yards and a touchdown – all while playing with the first string.
AUG. 20 UPDATE: Josh Morgan is a stud. He caught five balls for 114 yards and a touchdown – numbers that were indicative of how he dominated Green Bay’s secondary. J.T. O’Sullivan also missed Morgan on what could have been a sixth reception. With Morgan thriving and Bryant Johnson spending too much time nursing his injuries, the seventh-round rookie wideout will be given the opportunity to become the next Marques Colston. Take either Morgan or Eddie Royal in the final round of your fantasy draft.
AUG. 22 UPDATE: Josh Morgan was held without a catch, though he was targeted four times by Alex Smith (J.T. O’Sullivan played only the first quarter). Smith threw behind Morgan thrice and laid him out the fourth time.
AUG. 30 UPDATE: Bryant Johnson has apparently risen from the dead. Appearing in his first preseason action, Johnson caught three passes for 41 yards. The 49ers have just $2 million invested in him, and their coaching staff loves Josh Morgan, so I can’t see Johnson passing the rookie as the starting split end.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 800 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 104.
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Anthony Gonzalez, Colts
While Anthony Gonzalez finished with just 576 yards and three touchdowns, it’s important to note that he didn’t really do much until Week 5. He also missed two contests in the middle of the season. No longer a rookie, Gonzalez’s numbers will improve.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 800 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 102.
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Donte’ Stallworth, Browns
I wouldn’t draft Donte’ Stallworth until the later rounds. He gets injured too often and is completely unreliable. He’ll be a great downfield target for Derek Anderson, but the biggest question isn’t how many touchdowns he’ll catch, but rather how many games he’ll play.
AUG. 19 UPDATE: Donte’ Stallworth hauled in one catch for minus-1 yards. He also dropped a reception that would have moved the chains. Stallworth is always banged up, so I wouldn’t recommend drafting him.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 710 receiving yards. 5 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 101.
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Kevin Walter, Texans
Kevin Walter had more than 210 yards for the time in his career in 2007. He actually held the receiving corps together in the wake of Andre Johnson’s injury, as he registered 12 catches for 160 yards at Jacksonville in Week 6. Walter, a nice target at 6-3, 215, scored three of his four touchdowns in Week 12 and beyond, so maybe that’s a good sign for 2008.
AUG. 19 UPDATE: Matt Schaub often went to Kevin Walter, who caught six passes for 100 yards and a score. With Andre Johnson commanding double teams, Walter and Owen Daniels (three receptions, 61 yards) could be primed for solid campaigns.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 700 receiving yards. 5 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 100.
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Nate Burleson, Seahawks
Nate Burleson had an amazing sophomore campaign in this league, catching 68 passes for 1,006 yards and nine touchdowns with the Vikings. Since then, Burleson hasn’t done anything but disappoint fantasy owners. However, Burleson showed signs of coming back last season (50 receptions, 694 yards, nine touchdowns) and has looked good in minicamp. He’ll have an opportunity to start with Deion Branch sidelined.
AUG. 26 UPDATE: Charlie Frye tossed a 68-yard bomb to Nate Burleson. However, that was Burleson’s only reception. Without Matt Hasselbeck, it’s to tell how the Seahawks wideouts are going to look.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 700 receiving yards. 5 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 100.
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Joey Galloway, Buccaneers 
Joey Galloway has done a great job putting up solid numbers at his age (three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons with the Buccaneers). However, Galloway will be 37 in November. He’s coming off shoulder surgery. He struggled at the end of the year, as he was limited to one catch for nine yards against the Giants. His quarterback is 38. You’re taking a major risk if you draft Galloway early in your fantasy league.
AUG. 27 UPDATE: Jeff Garcia threw one of the worst passes I’ve ever seen in my life in the first quarter. Garcia ran a bootleg to the right, threw a pseudo-jump pass, which floated right into the hands of Reggie Nelson. Later, Garcia lofted a soft pass, which was picked off by an unseen Nelson in the red zone. He finished 11-of-18 for 79 yards, one touchdown and two picks. That’s an abysmal 4.4 YPA for Garcia. I would avoid all Tampa Bay wide receivers until late in the draft, as the former CFL quarterback’s career looks like it’s quickly coming to an end.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 750 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 99.
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Ronald Curry, Raiders
Ronald Curry opened the 2007 campaign with a 10-catch, 133-yard performance. Of course, he was playing the Lions’ defense, so his numbers were bound to decrease. Curry finished the season with 717 yards and four scores. Nothing spectacular. His stats won’t increase with a first-year starting quarterback.
JULY 31 UPDATE: Another receiver getting great press from his coaching staff is Ronald Curry. Curry registered 717 yards and four touchdowns despite having Josh McCown and Andrew Walter at quarterback last year. There’s no evidence JaMarcus Russell is going to be any better, at least not right away, but Curry seems like he would be a decent fourth receiver with a bit of upside.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 750 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 99.
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Bernard Berrian, Vikings
Bernard Berrian has put up some pretty respectable numbers despite playing with terrible quarterbacks in Chicago. He had 71 receptions, 951 yards and five touchdowns last season. Unfortunately, Berrian will still be stuck with horrible signal callers in Minnesota – at least for the time being.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 800 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 98.
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Steve Smith, Giants
Steve Smith’s production matched Eli Manning’s. Smith essentially did nothing in Weeks 1-16, registering five catches for 34 yards during that time span. However, when Eli picked it up, from Week 17 to the Super Bowl, Smith also improved, snagging 17 balls for 181 yards in those five contests. I’d take Smith before Amani Toomer because of the obvious upside.
JULY 28 UPDATE: With Jeremy Shockey gone, Eli Manning will continue to look Steve Smith’s way more and more. He’s one of my top fantasy sleepers.
AUG. 26 UPDATE: Steve Smith had four receptions for 37 yards, but dropped a pass inside the two-minute mark at the end of the first half.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 730 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 97.
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Antonio Bryant, Buccaneers
Antonio Bryant eclipsed the 1,000-yard barrier in 2005. Since then, he got into frequent shouting matches with his coach and quarterback in San Francisco, and was suspended in 2007 for violating the substance abuse policy. Bryant signed a 1-year, $605,000 contract with Tampa Bay, where he will undoubtedly work hard, sign a moderately sized signing bonus next spring and then get into trouble again.
AUG. 18 UPDATE: Antonio Bryant caught two passes for 37 yards and ran an end-around for 16 yards. Jon Gruden was raving about Bryant prior to the contest. It looks like he’ll be starting across from Joey Galloway. Keep that in mind on Draft Day.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 700 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 94.
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Chris Henry, Bengals
And I thought the Bengals were trying to get rid of everyone with poor-character traits? Actually, I find it interesting that the Bengals re-signed Chris Henry just one day after Chad Johnson suffered his shoulder injury. If you feel like burning a mid-round pick on Henry, remember that he’s suspended for four games, so the numbers below reflect that*. Also, keep in mind that in seven games last season, Henry collected just 343 yards and two touchdowns. He’s an intriguing option and will take some targets away from everyone, especially Ben Utecht.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 625 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 86*.
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Derrick Mason, Ravens
After looking like he was regressing at a result of entering his mid-30s in 2006, Derrick Mason came out of nowhere to register 103 catches, 1,087 yards and five touchdowns. I don’t know if he can do that again; the quarterbacking situation is even worse with a rookie under center, while his age (34) can only become more of a factor.
Derrick Mason led the Ravens with six receptions for 85 yards and a touchdown. Most of Mason’s production came on the first drive in the second half. This is good news for Mason owners; he was able to put up respectable numbers with a rookie quarterback at the helm. I still don’t trust Troy Smith to get it to Mason consistently, however.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 750 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 93.
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Muhsin Muhammad, Panthers
The last time Muhsin Muhammad donned a Panthers jersey, he had 93 receptions, 1,405 yards and 16 touchdowns. In the three years since, 164 catches, 2,183 yards and 12 touchdowns. No wonder he wanted to come back to the Panthers. Unfortunately, Muhammad is 35, so despite the fact that he’ll have better quarterbacking this season, I wouldn’t expect too much out of him.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 625 receiving yards. 5 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 92.
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Bobby Engram, Seahawks
It was nice to see long-time veteran Bobby Engram have a breakout year. Engram had 94 catches, 1,147 yards and six touchdowns. He just turned 35, so I wouldn’t expect him to match that production. On the other hand, with Deion Branch out most of the year, Matt Hasselbeck will rely on Engram more than ever.
AUG. 12 UPDATE: Bobby Engram is out 6-8 weeks with a cracked bone in his shoulder. This is a huge loss to Seattle’s receiving corps, which was already without Deion Branch.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 660 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 91.
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Arnaz Battle, 49ers
Arnaz Battle finished with 50 receptions, 600 yards and five touchdowns, but he didn’t get many looks toward the end of the season. In the final four weeks of the 2007 campaign, Battle managed only seven catches, 55 yards and one score. Martz loves using three-, four- and five-receiver formations on offense, so even though Battle is going from No. 1 to No. 3 wide out, he’ll be able to keep his production up to its current level.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 650 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 89.
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Rashied Davis, Bears
Sleeper alert: Who is this Rashied Davis guy? Of course I’ve heard of him, but how did he suddenly become Chicago’s No. 1 receiver and Kyle Orton’s go-to guy? Davis had four receptions for 58 yards and two touchdowns in just one half of work.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 700 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 89.
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Drew Bennett, Rams
The Rams did Marc Bulger and their fans a disservice by not finding someone who can be the No. 2 receiver across from Torry Holt. Drew Bennett sucks. His 2007 numbers (33 catches, 375 yards, three touchdowns) will improve because he’ll actually be starting, but don’t even think about drafting him as anything higher than a WR5.
AUG. 17 UPDATE: Drew Bennett didn’t really help the Rams’ anemic offense. He caught two passes for 12 yards, but dropped a ball and ran the wrong route on another play.
AUG. 25 UPDATE: Donnie Avery dropped the first pass thrown to him, which would have been good for a 20-yard gain. He also dropped a touchdown late in the first half. That said, Avery looked great on many other instances, registering five catches for 65 yards and a touchdown, including a diving catch along the sideline. Fellow rookie Keenan Burton had three receptions, 63 yards and an amazing one-handed grab thrown behind him. He also had a sliding touchdown, which was the first for St. Louis’ offense this preseason. It’s only a matter of time before either Avery or Burton replaces the ineffective Drew Bennett (no catches) in the starting lineup, though I wouldn’t draft either this year.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 650 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 89.
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Isaac Bruce, 49ers
Isaac Bruce came to the right place… Turning 36 in November, Bruce didn’t have many options, but playing for Mike Martz in a familiar system will serve him well during the twilight of his career. Bruce is the best receiver on this roster, so he’ll get plenty of looks in Martz’s scheme.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 750 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 87.
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Matt Jones, Jaguars
Matt Jones has rededicated himself; not only has he promised to stop snorting coke; he has also vowed to learn the playbook! David Garrard told John Madden that Jones didn’t know the plays last year, but now is on the right track.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 600 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 84.
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Mark Clayton, Ravens
Stay away from Mark Clayton until he gets his quarterbacking situation figured out. After notching 67 catches, 939 yards and five touchdowns in 2006, Clayton disappointed with 48 receptions, 531 yards and no scores. There’s an opportunity to buy low here, but I’d rather wait until 2009 to do that.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 650 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 83.
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James Jones, Packers
James Jones had an excellent rookie season, tallying 47 receptions, 676 yards and two touchdowns. Jones is a talented receiver, but his numbers will be limited with all of the weapons Aaron Rodgers will have at his disposal. I’d expect more out of Jones once Driver moves on, so he’s definitely a nice keeper pick. Also, keep an eye out for Jones if either Driver or Jennings gets hurt. Be the first to claim him off the waiver wire if that happens.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 650 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 83.
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Eddie Royal, Broncos
Eddie Royal has won the starting job in Denver. I normally wouldn’t recommend drafting rookie receivers, but Royal is worth a look, given that winning a starting gig is no easy feat for a rookie wideout. Let’s see how he performs in the preseason.
AUG. 20 UPDATE: There aren’t many casual football fans who know who Eddie Royal is, but they will soon enough. Denver’s rookie receiver is starting across from Brandon Marshall. Royal snagged in two balls for 67 yards, including a 32-yard reception where the 5-10 Royal leaped over Anthony Henry to secure the football. Royal won’t put up amazing numbers, but he’s definitely draftable as a late-round sleeper.
AUG. 23 UPDATE: Rookie receiver Eddie Royal started, but didn’t catch any balls. He nearly hauled in one catch on a play where the Packers should have been whistled for pass interference.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 650 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 83.
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Amani Toomer, Giants
Amani Toomer’s receiving yardage since garnering 1,057 in 2003: 747, 684, 360 (8 games). He rebounded with 59 receptions for 760 yards in 2007, but at 34, it’s safe to expect more regression. Steve Smith, who has much more upside, could be a better bet.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 650 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 83.
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Sidney Rice, Vikings
The former Gamecock turns 22 in September, so he’s a really young second-year player. He’ll exceed his 2007 production (31 catches, 396 yards, four touchdowns), as he’ll be a full-time starter across from Bernard Berrian. Just don’t expect miracles, especially with Tarvaris Jackson at the helm.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 525 receiving yards. 5 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 82.
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Dennis Northcutt, Jaguars
Not much to say here. Yet another mediocre Jaguars receiver who won’t put up any stats of significance.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 550 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 79.
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Dwayne Jarrett, Panthers
D.J. Hackett has been a sleeper on this site for the past two years. The problem has been his ability to stay healthy. In just five full contests, Hackett managed 32 catches, 384 yards and three touchdowns. Transcribe that over a 16-game slate, and you have 102 receptions, 1,229 yards and 10 touchdowns. Pretty sick.
AUG. 26 UPDATE: Muhsin Muhammad has already passed D.J. Hackett, and it looks like Dwayne Jarrett is close to doing so as well. Jarrett looked impressive, catching four balls for 40 yards, which doesn’t include a 9-yard reception that was called back because of a penalty. Hackett’s injuries have prevented him from seeing action this preseason.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 600 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 78.
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Michael Clayton, Buccaneers
Jon Gruden can’t stop praising Michael Clayton. Per Gruden, Clayton’s work ethic has improved so much so that he’s becoming one of the leaders on offense. If that’s true, it’s great news for the “I Keep Drafting Michael Clayton Really Late in All My Leagues Every Year but Keep Getting Disappointed and Cutting Him by Week 3” Club. I’m a charter member.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 600 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 78.
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Marty Booker, Bears
Can Marty Booker recapture the magic he had in 2001 and 2002, when he had a combined 197 receptions, 2,254 yards and 14 touchdowns? Very doubtful. Bears fans should be happy with a quarter of that production, as Booker, 32, has regressed. He had 556 yards and one score last season.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 600 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 78.
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Devard Darling, Chiefs
Slated to be Kansas City’s No. 2 receiver, Devard Darling hadn’t done much in the NFL prior to last season. Darling didn’t see much action until Week 11. He had 300 yards and three touchdowns the final seven games of the year. Not much to get excited about.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 600 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 78.
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David Patten, Saints
David Patten had 242 yards in 2005 and 2006, so it was surprising to see him come out of nowhere to garner 792 yards and three touchdowns in 2007. There’s no reason to draft him as anything higher than a WR5; I just think it’s a nice story.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 600 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 78.
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Robert Meachem, Saints
Robert Meachem missed all of the 2007 season with a knee injury. He’s ready for 2008, as he reportedly looks great in practice. I’m not really sure what to expect, but I would definitely draft him in a keeper league.
AUG. 8 UPDATE: Robert Meachem has arrived. Meachem beat Cardinals second-string safety Aaron Francisco on a 49-yard pass from Mark Brunell. Meachem dived for the ball and was able to prevent it from hitting the ground, landing on Arizona’s 3-yard line. Meachem also took a fourth-quarter catch to the house for 60 yards, as he broke four tackles after the reception. Granted, he was running away from third-stringers, but it looks like Meachem has a chance to put up some very solid numbers this year.
AUG. 28 UPDATE: Two weeks ago, Robert Meachem impressed a national audience by catching a deep pass and avoiding a number of tackles on another reception. Against the Bengals, Drew Brees found Meachem downfield on a 59-yard play, eventually setting up a touchdown. Meachem finished with four catches for 71 yards.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 600 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 78.
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Jordan Kent, Seahawks
With all the talk of Courtney Taylor and Ben Obomanu fighting to take over for Bobby Engram, another guy has stepped up. Jordan Kent, a second-year wideout, caught four balls for 50 yards and had a fifth reception wiped out by a holding penalty. Kent has great size (6-4, 219) and solid speed, and apparently improved his route running. He's worth taking as a sleeper late in your draft. Meanwhile, Taylor started but couldn't haul in a 40-yard bomb from Charlie Frye. Obomanu wasn't targeted.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 575 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 75.
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Early Doucet, Cardinals
LSU receivers have thrived as rookies in the past, so Early Doucet wouldn't be a bad late-round pick. If he's available as a free agent, and either Anquan Boldin or Larry Fitzgerald go down with an injury, make sure you pick him up.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 575 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 75.
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Justin Gage, Titans
Vince Young has to depend on his receivers, but you don't. Justin Gage is the eptiome of mediocrity.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 625 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 74.
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Jacoby Jones, Texans
Jacoby Jones will be Houston's No. 3 receiver this season after playing behind Andre' Davis as a rookie. He's not worth taking in any regular leagues, though I'd consider him late in a keeper draft.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 550 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 73.
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Javon Walker, Raiders
If you're thinking about drafting Javon Walker, you're probably stuck in 2006. Walker is coming off knee surgery. He can't even walk! Al Davis threw tons of cash his way, but Al Davis does crazy things because, well, he's Al Davis.
JULY 31 UPDATE: Javon Walker's knee injury is a concern, and he reportedly came to camp overweight. Factor in his other injuries and mediocre quarterbacking situation, and Walker is pretty much undraftable.
AUG. 16 UPDATE: It's safe to say I wasn't surprised when Javon Walker dropped a very easy catch that would have been a first down on Oakland's initial possession. Despite signing a massive contract a few months ago, Walker has looked terrible in training camp and even pondered retirement. The Raiders would cut him if doing so didn't trigger an enormous cap penalty.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 525 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 70.
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Derek Hagan, Dolphins
Derek Hagan had eight receptions and 93 yards in his only start. That would be promising, except he registered a mere five receptions in the next three contests to close out his second season.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 500 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 68.
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Limas Sweed, Steelers
Limas Sweed will get some end-zone looks considering his impressive size (6-4, 215). However, he is a rookie so I'd be careful. He's definitely worth taking in a keeper league.
AUG. 15 UPDATE: Limas Sweed ran the wrong route on a third down, dropped a pass and managed just nine receiving yards.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 400 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 64.
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Michael Jenkins, Falcons
The Michael Jenkins era is quickly coming to an end in Atlanta. And it can't come sooner; I can't imagine how frustrated Falcons fans must feel watching Jenkins drop a dozen balls each week.
AUG. 24 UPDATE: Speaking of Falcons receivers, Michael Jenkins really surprised me. Renowned for his dropped passes, Jenkins reeled in all five balls thrown to him, notching a team second-best 44 yards. Jenkins has secured a starting job for now, though he still remains undraftable.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 500 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 62.
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Antwaan Randle El, Redskins
Antwaan Randle El is coming off knee surgery. He's learning a new offense. He has never had more than 51 receptions, 728 yards and three touchdowns. Stay away.
AUG. 26 UPDATE: Antwaan Randle El had two receptions for nine yards, but dropped a pass.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 550 receiving yards. 1 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 61.
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James Hardy, Bills
At the very least, James Hardy will be an effective end-zone target, making him good enough to be a late-round flier in touchdown leagues.
JULY 31 UPDATE: BuffaloBills.com is reporting that James Hardy is not seeing many snaps with the first-team offense. Hardy's frame makes him a great red-zone target, but you should probably refrain from drafting him.
AUG. 10 UPDATE: James Hardy scored a touchdown against the Redskins. He needed that touchdown because prior to that, he ran the wrong route on a play, dropped a pass and false started.
AUG. 15 UPDATE: James Hardy didn't register a single reception against the Steelers despite being in the starting lineup.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 350 receiving yards. 4 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 59.
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Roydell Williams, Titans
Tennessee's sole promising receiver. Roydell Williams had at least three catches in every game but one after Week 8. Williams should keep improving, but I can't see him becoming a top-notch fantasy receiver. An offseason ankle injury could slow him down a bit.
JULY 31 UPDATE: Roydell Williams apparently isn't even in consideration for one of the starting receiver gigs, which currently belong to Justin Gage and Justin "Butter Fingers" McCareins. Williams was Tennessee's top wideout in 2007, but has fallen off the face of the Earth with a new offensive coordinator in town.
AUG. 30 UPDATE: Vince Young played the entire first half for the Titans despite facing Green Bay's second- and third-stringers. The result? A woeful 13-of-27 for 134 yards. No one in Tennessee's receiving corps is draftable, save for Justin Gage really late.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 425 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 54.
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Ernest Wilford, Dolphins
With an excellent quarterback (David Garrard), Ernest Wilford had 45 receptions, 518 yards and three touchdowns. With Josh McCown, John Beck and Chad Henne...
AUG. 5 UPDATE: If, for some reason, you completely lose your sanity during the draft and for some reason feel the need to draft a Miami wide receiver not named Ted Ginn, make it Derek Hagan; not Ernest Wilford. Wilford has looked completely awful in training camp, and may have already lost his job to Hagan.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 425 receiving yards. 2 total TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 54.
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Bryant Johnson, 49ers
Bryant Johnson never did anything spectacular in Arizona, even when either Larry Fitzgerald or Anquan Boldin was injured. If his best season was 40 receptions, 740 yards and four touchdowns, how can he be expected to put up monstrous numbers in San Francisco?
AUG. 20 UPDATE: Bryant Johnson, who wasn't good to begin with, has been nursing injuries for so long that Josh Morgan passed him on the depth chart.
AUG. 30 UPDATE: Bryant Johnson has apparently risen from the dead. Appearing in his first preseason action, Johnson caught three passes for 41 yards. The 49ers have just $2 million invested in him, and their coaching staff loves Josh Morgan, so I can't see Johnson passing the rookie as the starting split end.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 425 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 54.
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Keenan Burton, Rams
I'm not one to recommend drafting rookie receivers, but Keenan Burton could be worth a look in the final rounds of your draft, depending on how deep your league is. Burton has looked great in training camp, while his main competition, fellow rookie Donnie Avery, will miss a few weeks with a minor injury. I had Burton as a higher-rated rookie despite the fact that St. Louis chose Avery before Burton.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 400 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 52.
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Andre Caldwell, Bengals
It looks like Andre Caldwell will take Chris Henry's spot as the No. 3 receiver. Carson Palmer has raved about Caldwell's performance at minicamps, so there's a chance the Florida product could put up solid numbers his rookie season. A very small chance. I wouldn't take a risk on first-year wide outs until the very end of the draft.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 400 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 52.
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Shaun McDonald, Lions
Definitely the candidate to take the biggest hit in the wake of Mike Martz's departure. Shaun McDonald led the squad in catches (79), yards (943) and receiving touchdowns (6). No way he comes close to that without Martz. Not only will McDonald be phased out of Detroit's balanced offense, he's coming off knee surgery.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 400 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 52.
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Devin Hester, Bears
Unless return numbers count in your league (I've seen a few leagues that actually count them), don't bother with Devin Hester. He'll be in the slot, but won't catch enough passes to be a factor.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 10 rushing yards. 375 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 50.
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Reggie Williams, Jaguars
Thanks to his 6-4, 212-pound frame, Reggie Williams was able to catch 10 touchdowns in 2007, most of which came late in the year. I wouldn't count on a repeat performance, though he's worth drafting late in a touchdown league.
JULY 30 UPDATE: Reggie Williams will have to undergo knee surgery. He'll miss a chunk of the 2008 season.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 325 receiving yards. 3 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 50.
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Kevin Curtis, Eagles
Sure, Kevin Curtis tallied 1,110 receiving yards and six touchdowns, but most of that production came in just three games. Take away strong performances against the Jets, Lions and Seahawks, and Curtis had just 657 yards and one score on the year. That type of inconsistency is pretty scary if Curtis is on your fantasy roster. If you do have him, make sure to sit him against defenses playing press-man coverage. Curtis is small and can't get off the line of scrimmage.
AUG. 21 UPDATE: Kevin Curtis has suffered a sports hernia, which will require surgery. He could be out until November, and he may not be 100 percent when he returns. Cross Curtis off your cheat sheet.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 350 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 47.
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Terry Glenn, TBA
Don't draft Terry Glenn. He's old, he's coming off knee surgery and he could be cut. Even if he plays, he may not be the same receiver ever again. If you really want to take a Cowboys receiver, and Terrell Owens and Patrick Crayton are gone, go with Sam Hurd.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 350 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 47.
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Demetrius Williams, Ravens
No reason to take a No. 3 receiver who has a terrible situation at quarterback.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 350 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 47.
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Drew Carter, Raiders
Drew Carter is Oakland's No. 3 receiver right now. Once Javon Walker misses some time nursing his knee or another injury, Carter will get the opportunity to start. So, what does all this mean? Absolutely nothing!
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 400 receiving yards. 1 TD.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 46.
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Ike Hilliard, Buccaneers
He's slow, he's old and he's injured. I can't think of a single reason to draft Ike Hilliard. There's just no upside.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 400 receiving yards. 1 TD.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 46.
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Darrell Jackson, Broncos
I expect Darrell Jackson to win the No. 2 job over Keary Colbert, though in a perfect world, Eddie Royal would swoop in and claim the gig right off the bat. Jackson has terrible hands and is prone to injury. Stay away.
JULY 30 UPDATE: Darrell Jackson has been seeing more time in the first-team offense, as it seems he has beaten out Keary Colbert for the job. Jackson should get a lot of targets if Brandon Marshall is suspended.
AUG. 8 UPDATE: Oh, how things change in a few days. Jackson has been benched in favor of rookie Eddie Royal, and is now not a lock to make the team.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 325 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 44.
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Bobby Wade, Vikings
Bobby Wade led the Vikings in catches (54) and receiving yards (647). For his efforts, Wade will be benched in favor of Bernard Berrian and Sidney Rice.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 325 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 44.
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Chad Jackson, Patriots
Chad Jackson has yet to do anything in this league, but he's a third-year receiver who has been lighting it up in minicamps. I'm not sure what that means, but the Patriots will give him every chance to knock Jabar Gaffney out of the lineup.
AUG. 10 UPDATE: Chad Jackson caught one pass for no positive yardage against the Ravens. Jackson ran the wrong route on an interception, but he wasn't at fault for his lack of production otherwise; Matt Cassel and Matt Guiterrez overthrew him, underthrew him and laid him out a ton. I really want to see what a now-healthy Jackson can do with Tom Brady under center.
AUG. 18 UPDATE: Cross Chad Jackson off your fantasy board. He didn't do anything in the first half and managed just two receptions in the second half. Jackson has really let me down. He has talent, he's entering his third season and he plays in an offense where any starter can produce. But Jackson just can't put it together. It's really frustrating.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 300 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 42.
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Joe Jurevicius, Browns
A solid NFL receiver whose numbers will never translate to fantasy success. Joe Jurevicius is coming off multiple knee surgeries.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 250 receiving yards. 2 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 37.
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Laurent Robinson, Falcons
I'm predicting that Laurent Robinson will be the starting receiver across from Roddy White, using the momentum he gained from his 7-catch, 114-yard performance in Week 16. Still, with a rookie quarterback at the helm and a new ball-control offense, Robinson's numbers will be limited.
AUG. 24 UPDATE: Speaking of Falcons receivers, Michael Jenkins really surprised me. Renowned for his dropped passes, Jenkins reeled in all five balls thrown to him, notching a team second-best 44 yards. Jenkins has secured a starting job for now, though he still remains undraftable.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 275 receiving yards. 1 TD.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 33.
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Devin Thomas, Redskins
Definitely worth taking in a dynasty league. Otherwise, just watch his progress. He may start for the Redskins. If he gets enough experience and looks like he grasps the offense, make note and draft him as a sleeper in 2009. Same goes for Malcolm Kelly.
AUG. 17 UPDATE: Devin Thomas actually played. He returned two punts, one for 32 yards, but failed to register a reception. Even worse, he dropped a pair of passes. Malcolm Kelly is still in the witness protection program.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 300 receiving yards. 1 TD.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 36.
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Craig Davis, Chargers
Craig Davis was more consistent down the stretch, but we're talking like two receptions per game. Don't draft him.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 250 receiving yards. 1 TD.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 31.
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Steve Johnson, Bills
No other receiver on the Bills is worth listing, so I thought I'd mention Steve Johnson. A Kentucky product, Johnson was chosen in the seventh round despite being a fourth-round prospect. He has looked good in minicamps, so consider him in a keeper league.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 220 receiving yards. 1 TD.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 28.
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Deion Branch, Seahawks
Deion Branch tore his ACL in mid-January, so it'll be a while until he can play.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 150 receiving yards. 1 TD.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 21.
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Lavelle Hawkins, Titans
Lavelle Hawkins isn't Tennessee's No. 3 receiver, but whoever that may be won't do much in the world of fantasy football, so I thought I'd bring up Hawkins. He seems like a great fit in the Titans' offense, so I'd consider him late in keeper leagues.
AUG. 30 UPDATE: Vince Young played the entire first half for the Titans despite facing Green Bay's second- and third-stringers. The result? A woeful 13-of-27 for 134 yards. No one in Tennessee's receiving corps is draftable, save for Justin Gage really late.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Stats: 200 receiving yards. 0 TDs.
Projected 2008 Fantasy Points: 20.
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2009 NFL Mock Draft
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